Real Madrid fans were left amazed after it came to light that veteran midfielder Luka Modric has played more with Vinicius Jr than Cristiano Ronaldo. The Croatia international is in talks with the Spanish giants over a potential new contract, as his present deal expires at the end of the season.
After impressing in the Premier League with Tottenham Hotspur, Modric moved to the Santiago Bernabeu in 2012, three years after Cristiano Ronaldo signed for the club. The midfielder had a slow start to life in Spain, struggling to impact games for Los Blancos before eventually establishing himself as one of the world's best.
Vinicius Jr joined Real Madrid from Flamengo in 2018, six years after Modric had joined the club. His arrival coincided with the exit of Ronaldo from the club, as the Portuguese ended his nine-year spell at the Santiago Bernabeu.
A Real Madrid fan account on X (@MadridXtra) pointed out that the Croatian is set to extend his stay with the club for one more year. This would mean that he will play more seasons with Vinicius Jr than with Cristiano Ronaldo, displaying his impressive longevity.
There were more reactions, as well as disbelief from the fans praising the Croatian's career.
"Erm...WHAT??"
"Longevity"
"Damn, that's longevity icl."
By featuring against Cadiz last month, Modric became the oldest outfield player to ever represent Los Blancos in La Liga. The midfielder, who will turn 39 at the start of next season, has enjoyed great success in Madrid, where he won the Ballon d'Or in 2018.
A FIFA World Cup silver and bronze medal winner with his country, Luka Modric has won the UEFA Champions League five times and is aiming for a sixth crown this season. He is expected to feature in the final next month, when his side face Borussia Dortmund.
Luka Modric set for Real Madrid contract extension
Real Madrid legend Luka Modric is set to remain at the club beyond this summer as he nears an agreement over a one-year deal. The 38-year-old midfielder has been one of the club's most reliable players of the last decade, and is keen on remaining at the Santiago Bernabeu.
Modric signed a new contract with the club in 2023, keeping him at the club until the end of the season. Reports from Marca indicate that despite interest from elsewhere, the midfielder is now prepared to extend his stay with Los Blancos.
Alongside fellow midfield maestro Toni Kroos, the Croatian international will return to the club once the European Championship ends in the summer. Luka Modric will likely have a reduced role next season, but his leadership and experience will be key.