Luka Modric is still a very important member of the Real Madrid squad at the age of 32. He understands that finishing his career in Spain might not be a realistic goal. Instead, the Croatian midfielder is considering following Zlatan Ibrahimovic’s path to MLS.
The crafty midfielder told Spanish reporters that he’d like to end his career with Los Blancos, but he has taken real note of how Ibrahimovic is getting along in America. Despite the massive time difference between Madrid and Los Angeles, he still makes an effort to watch the majestic striker when it fits into his schedule.
Moving to MLS could be an excellent sunset for Modric’s majestic career. Some might equate his move to Ibrahimovic’s, but for me it would be more similar to Andrea Pirlo’s decision to take his talents to New York. Both were always imperious midfielders with the ball at their feet, but both started to see the speed of the game become a real issue when they reached their 30s.
Like Pirlo was at the end of his time with Juventus, Modric is still capable of controlling certain matches. Also like Pirlo, Modric could soon see the game become too quick for him.
MLS isn’t necessarily a slow league, but Modric’s skill and craft could allow him to extend his career there by several seasons. His huge name recognition across Europe would also allow him to receive a massive wage packet in the United States. Modric has made plenty of cash at Tottenham and Real Madrid, but he’d still like to salt a few million more away before he hangs up his boots for good.
Luka Modric probably won’t need to make a decision about his future this summer, but next year may be an entirely different matter. As his contract with Real Madrid enters its final season the Croatian star will need to look at a lot of options for his future. Don’t be remotely surprised if he ends up trading in the glitz and glamour of La Liga for a new challenge in MLS.