Luka Modric, still pullin' strings at 39 years old, is showin' everyone that age ain't nothin' but a number. His recent performance against Mallorca, where he was involved in more plays than anyone else on the Real Madrid squad (a whopping 136!), has reignited the debate: can the club really afford to let go of a player who, according to Álvaro Benito, "is the best"? His passing accuracy (91.7%) is even better than it was during their Liga-Champions League double-winning season, and he's winnin' back more balls on defense too.
This kind of performance puts new Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso in a bit of a pickle. On one hand, Modric's smarts and control of the game fit perfectly with the style Alonso's lookin' to implement: a team that dictates the flow of the match and is tough to break down. The Croatian maestro, with his vision and ability to set the tempo, could be key in the transition to this new approach.
On the other hand, Modric's age is still a question mark. Can he keep up this physical level for a whole season? Alonso, known for his demanding style, might prefer younger players with more stamina and ground coverage. The arrival of young talents like Dean Huijsen only adds fuel to the idea of a generational shift in the midfield.
Alonso's decision ain't gonna be easy. Lettin' Modric go would mean losin' a player with undeniable tactical influence and a special connection with the fans. Plus, his experience and leadership in the locker room are invaluable assets. But then again, buildin' a more physical midfield could be crucial for competin' at the highest level in every competition.
So, Modric's future at Real Madrid is one of the big question marks headin' into next season. His performances in the upcoming games are gonna be huge in decidin' whether he remains a cornerstone in Xabi Alonso's plans or if the club decides to usher in a new era in the middle of the park. One thing's for sure, though: Modric ain't goin' quietly into the night; he's still pushin' hard and defyin' expectations.
from: elfutbolero.us