Real Madrid head coach Carlo Ancelotti has compared Luka Modric to Paolo Maldini in terms of the longevity of their greatness.
Maldini is someone who needs very little introduction given that he is regarded as the greatest defender of all time by many, holding many records in terms of appearances, winning 23 trophies and being a long-serving captain of Milan.
Modrić’s meanwhile remains the captain of Real Madrid and the Croatia national team, and seems to be ageing like a fine wine. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest midfielders of all time, winning 27 major honour with Los Blancos.
Speaking at a press conference after Sunday’s 2-0 win over Girona – in which Modric scored a stunning volley – Ancelotti was asked about how he is still able to keep going at the age of 39.
“Luka Modric is a gift to football. I had another 40-year-old player, Paolo Maldini. Two players who represent everything a footballer should be,” he said (via MilanPress).
Modric actually grew up as a Milan fan given his idol was Zvonimir Boban, his compatriot and fellow creative midfielder. While there have been some transfer links in the past he has never swapped the Santiago Bernabeu for San Siro.
