Luka Modric, a midfield maestro, continues to mesmerize fans and players alike, orchestrating the game with the finesse and calm reminiscent of a serene river.
In June 2007, amidst the chaotic backdrop of a Euro 2008 qualifier between Croatia and Russia, a young Modric, then just 21 years old, was already demonstrating the graceful strength that would allow him to cut through defenders and dominate the midfield landscape by more than two decades.
Zagreb’s iconic Maksimir Stadium pulsed with anticipation as excited fans dumped sunflower seed shells, providing a vivid reminder of Eastern European football culture. For many seeing him for the first time, it was clear: Modric was an exceptional talent.
Engaged in a match marked by intense physicality, Modric managed to remain unscathed, thinking ahead, protecting the ball and identifying passing paths like an experienced tactician. Legendary AC Milan and Croatia midfielder Zvonimir Boban perfectly captured Modric’s ability, referring to his vision and distribution as “sophisticated geometry”.
Fast forward almost 17 years from that singular match, and Modric is poised to make history — set to become the oldest player to wear the iconic Real Madrid shirt. As the club celebrates more than a century of existence since its founding in 1902, Modric’s achievement stands firmly in the records.
This weekend in Vigo during La Liga action, he will overtake the legendary Ferenc Puskas, who, aged 39 years and 37 days, played in a Copa del Rey quarter-final match against Real Betis in 1966. Modric, who just celebrated his 39th birthday last month, will be 40 days older than Puskas when he takes to the pitch.
Earlier this year, in April, Modric already secured his place in history as the oldest player to play for Madrid in European competitions, surpassing another milestone set by Puskas when he came on as a substitute against Bayern Munich.
Modric’s career has been marked by remarkable longevity and undeniable skill, a testament to his incredible physical condition and impressive dedication to the sport. At 1.72m tall and weighing just 66.2kg, he may not look like your typical athlete, but his stamina and commitment rival that of the most robust competitors.
In 19 years at professional level, spanning his time in Croatia, in the Premier League with Tottenham, and now over a decade with the Galacticos, Modric has consistently delivered performances. He played 40 or more games in 15 seasons, falling to 25 appearances only once due to injuries.
His contributions to the Croatian national team are impressive. With 182 caps, Modric has played in more than half of all of Croatia’s international games since the country gained independence in 1994 — a testament to his unwavering reliability, a quality Boban expressed as “an almost mystical dependence.”
Vlatko Vucetic, professor of kinesiology at the University of Zagreb and Modric’s longtime fitness advisor, attributes his enduring power to genetic and mental factors, citing Modric’s monumental work ethic.
“In 25 years, I’ve seen players with more explosive physical traits, but no one matches their intelligence and determination,” says Vucetic. “When we started working together 11 years ago, Modric aimed to play until the age of 36. He has followed my training program with remarkable consistency. He often performs drills before training, strengthening his core strength with resistance bands to combat the muscle loss as you age.”
As he embraces the physical demands of the sport, he remains motivated and competitive, seeking the thrill of victory rather than the comfort of leisure. Your commitment remains resolute while focusing on continuous improvement.
Looking ahead to the possibility of participating in the 2026 World Cup, Modric remains cautious but hopeful. “That’s a long way off,” he commented, reflecting on his current state: “What matters most is that I’m here, still motivated and eager to play.”
However, Modric’s journey has not been without its trials. Born in 1985, during the tumultuous days of Yugoslavia, his formative years were marked by war and tragedy. At just six years old, he suffered the loss of his grandfather, Luka, amid the growing conflict.
Despite early setbacks, including being rejected by his boyhood team Hajduk Split due to his size, Modric persevered through a series of challenges, paving a path that would eventually lead to him joining Real Madrid.
After enduring a somewhat difficult start at the Bernabéu, attributed by some to a complicated transition, Modric established himself as a critical component of the Madrid midfield through numerous managerial changes and controversies.
With over 546 appearances to date, he has achieved an unparalleled collection of glittering trophies, including six Champions League titles, four La Liga championships and, of course, the coveted Ballon d’Or in 2018.
As he leads his team through a busy schedule, including a hotly contested El Clasico next weekend, the football world watches in awe. Luka Modric’s narrative is one of struggle, brilliance and tireless determination — a legacy that will be remembered long after he hangs up his boots.
It is now clear that Luka Modric continues to defy the odds, creating magic in the heart of midfield, reminding us all that true greatness knows no age.
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