Real Madrid midfielder Toni Kroos recently shared that he plans to retire after this season.
Now, according to a report from MARCA (h/t Madrid Zone), it seems Luka Modric, another key player, might also be eyeing retirement in Madrid.
Modric, who is 39 years old, has an agreement in principle with Real Madrid to stay for one more season. However, with manager Carlo Ancelotti’s backing for both Modric and Kroos to stay, it has come down to the fact that only one will remain at the club.
No, not yet. Like Kroos, Modric wants to finish his career at Real Madrid. If he wanted to retire, he would not have agreed to extend his contract.
It is to be noted that Modric is currently one of the top earners at Real Madrid, but his high salary did not align with his reduced playing time.
Despite his wish to stay, the club was not initially keen on keeping him under such terms.
However, things have changed recently. The club is now considering renewing Modric’s contract due to several reasons.
First, the midfielder is open to a pay cut and second, his positive influence on younger players like Arda Guler is valued. Lastly, his desire to retire as a Madrid player is a significant factor.
Interestingly, Modric has turned down tempting offers from Saudi Arabia and the MLS to stay with Real Madrid.
Throughout this season, the Croatian international has accepted his decreased playing time, although it was challenging for him given his competitive spirit and pride.
His role might diminish further once Real Madrid find a replacement for Kroos next season, but for now, Modric will continue to be a prominent figure for the team.