Carlo Ancelotti’s unshakeable bond with veteran midfielder secured his renewal – report | OneFootball

According to journalist Sergio Gomez (h/t Madrid Xtra), Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti has played a crucial role in ensuring that Luka Modric remains with the team beyond the current season.

It is said that Ancelotti and Modric share a strong bond based on mutual respect, which has been essential for Modric’s contract renewal. Moreover, Ancelotti has advocated for Modric’s stay because he believes the Croatian is a vital part of the team.

It is important to note that Modric is one of the highest-paid players at Real Madrid at the moment and keeping him on such a high salary while he plays a less prominent role on the field did not fit with the club’s plans, despite his desire to stay.

Modric has agreed to reduce his salary

Recently, the situation has changed. The club is now open to renewing Modric’s contract and several factors have influenced this decision.

For once, Modric is willing to take a pay cut, his positive influence on younger players, and his desire to retire with Real Madrid is the driving force behind his decision.

Luka Modric will continue at Real Madrid for another season. (Photo by Clive Brunskill/Getty Images)

Furthermore, Modric has even turned down lucrative offers from Saudi Arabia and the MLS to stay with the team.

During the course of the current season, Modric has gradually accepted his reduced role, although he did struggle with playing fewer minutes, which was difficult for someone with his competitive nature and pride.

Modric is here to stay

Over time, Modric has adapted to the new situation. While he is no longer an undisputed starter, he has still played 43 games this season, making him the 13th most-used player by Ancelotti with 2,140 minutes on the field.

The excellent relationship between Modric and Ancelotti remains a key factor as the latter values Modric’s work both on and off the field.

Furthermore, Modric has also taken on a mentorship role with younger players, offering advice and guidance and his relationship with players like Rodrygo is almost like that of an older brother, which Ancelotti highly appreciates.

It is very likely that Modric will stay for another season and continue to make history with Real Madrid and in all fairness, he has many reasons to want the renewal, and the decision now rests with Real Madrid.