Carlo Ancelotti Describes Luka Modric as a ‘Treasure to Football’ Following Stunning Goal Against Girona

Luka Modric (39) sent the Bernabeu crowd into a frenzy on Sunday, scoring a stunning goal that helped Real Madrid secure a 2-0 victory over Girona in LaLiga. Manager Carlo Ancelotti didn’t hold back in his admiration for the Croatian maestro.

The 2018 Ballon d’Or winner opened the scoring in the 41st minute, beautifully controlling a high clearance from a corner with his chest before sending a magnificent long-range volley crashing into the top corner.

The veteran midfielder, who has collected 28 trophies since signing with the Spanish club in 2012, is set to see his contract expire at the end of the current season.

In the post-match press conference, Ancelotti expressed that Modric should decide his own future, likening the midfielder’s remarkable career longevity to that of his former player, the legendary Paolo Maldini, who played for AC Milan and Italy.

“Modric is a treasure for football. He should remain as long as he wishes. What he accomplishes, he excels at. We are fortunate to have this legend with us,” Ancelotti remarked to the media.

“Football has received a gift in the form of his dedication, skill, and professionalism…

“I had another player who played until he was 40, and that was Maldini. They can be compared in what a player should embody. They are incredible role models. It’s no coincidence they have maintained their careers into their 40s. Genetics play a role, but so do commitment and attitude.”

With this win, Real Madrid climbed to 54 points after 25 matches, breaking a streak of three games without a victory and ensuring they remain competitive in the LaLiga title chase.

Currently, Ancelotti’s team is tied with Barcelona on points, but lags behind in head-to-head results. Atletico Madrid sits third, just a point behind with 53.

Despite the team’s performance against Girona not matching the level they reached in their previous 3-1 triumph over Manchester City in the Champions League knockout stage, Ancelotti expressed his satisfaction.

“It’s common for teams that control a match and only score once to risk drawing,” he noted.

“They nearly equalised on a counter-attack after a corner. The second goal effectively secured the win. We could have concluded the match sooner, but the team played well.”

“Replicating Wednesday’s commitment was challenging, but I appreciated the approach, even if it didn’t quite measure up to the match against City.”

Looking ahead, Real Madrid will face Real Sociedad in the first leg of the Copa del Rey semi-final on Wednesday, followed by a league match against Real Betis on 1 March.