Luka Modric has made history by becoming the oldest player in Real Madrid’s history at 39 years and 40 days, surpassing the legendary Hungarian forward Ferenc Puskas.
Modric’s remarkable longevity in the sport is nearly unmatched. The Croatian midfielder’s impressive tally of 27 trophies over 13 seasons with Madrid is the highest for any player in the club’s history, and he is rapidly approaching 550 appearances (currently at 547). Raul holds the record for most appearances at the club, having played 741 matches from 1994 to 2010.
Predrag Mijatovic, a former striker and friend, noted last year, “By all the parameters of football, Luka should have retired a couple of years ago. But then you see him play and you have to say, ‘This guy is not 38; he is 28.’”
The article reflects on the accolades Modric has received from peers, the players he has surpassed to claim the title of Madrid’s oldest player, and how his record measures up in both the Champions League and La Liga. It also revisits some of his most memorable moments with the club.
What have Modric’s former teammates and coaches said about him?
In a tribute to Modric last year, several players and coaches praised his contributions after he reached 500 appearances for Madrid, becoming only the 12th player to do so. Here are some excerpts:
Ivan Rakitic, a former Croatian teammate, stated, “He’s a lesson for all of us that age is just a number — he is still playing at a very high level. We are enjoying the football he is giving us, so let him keep doing the same.”
Slaven Bilic, former coach of Croatia, commented, “People ask me, ‘Did he change?’ Of course, he changed, but like the iPhone changes every couple of years. He has upgraded, but he had it all in the beginning.”
Mijatovic added, “You talk to him now and even with everything he has won, he is still crazy about winning. It’s unbelievable. His ambition is different. He is never happy — he wants more and more.”
What are some of Modric’s best moments for Madrid?
Modric’s career features countless highlights. Here are a few noteworthy performances:
1. **Goal against Manchester United (March 2013)** – This goal marked a turning point in Modric’s career after a challenging first season. Following a 1-1 draw in the first leg, Madrid faced a 1-0 deficit in the second leg. Modric, showing his class, dribbled past defenders and netted a stunning shot from distance.
2. **Assist for Sergio Ramos in the Champions League final (May 2014)** – Modric’s exceptional corner delivery set the stage for Ramos’s dramatic equalizer, which led to extra time and ultimately helped Madrid secure their tenth European title, known as La Decima.
3. **Goal against Barcelona (October 2020)** – Despite the unusual atmosphere of an empty Camp Nou during the pandemic, Modric showcased his skill with an exquisite finish to secure a vital win for Madrid in El Clasico.
4. **Assist for Karim Benzema against Paris Saint-Germain (March 2022)** – In a crucial Champions League match, Modric played a brilliant through ball that enabled Benzema to score, contributing to a remarkable comeback for Madrid.
5. **Assisted Rodrygo against Chelsea (April 2022)** – Modric’s inventive outside-of-the-boot pass allowed Rodrygo to equalize during a Champions League quarter-final match, further demonstrating his creative prowess.
Who are Madrid’s other oldest players?
Modric has now overtaken:
– **Ferenc Puskas (39 years and 37 days)** – An iconic figure for Madrid, Puskas had a storied career and significantly contributed to the team’s legacy.
– **Paco Buyo (38 years and 63 days)** – The goalkeeper was integral during an era of dominance for Madrid and is remembered for his unique playing style.
– **Jerzy Dudek (38 years and 59 days)** – Though he played only a few games for Madrid, Dudek was part of the squad during a successful period for the club.
– **Alfredo Di Stefano (37 years and 328 days)** – Often regarded as Madrid’s most important player, he had a transformative impact on the club’s success.
How does Modric’s record compare in La Liga and the Champions League?
While Modric is now the oldest player at Real Madrid, he still aspires to set records in the Champions League and La Liga. The record for the oldest player in the Champions League is held by Marco Ballotta, who played at age 43 years and 252 days, while Harry Lowe remains the oldest player in La Liga at 48 years and 226 days. Additionally, Modric is on track to become the oldest player to win a Champions League title, currently ranked second behind Paolo Maldini.
As he continues his career, Modric has already set a significant benchmark for himself and future players at Real Madrid.