Luka Modric has been one of the most stylish midfielders of his generation. His skills and tenacity continue to mesmerize soccer fans around the world. The Real Madrid midfielder’s career is an inspiration for many young footballers.
Luka Modric’s work ethic has made him a favorite of his coaches. Even the coaches he has played against haven’t shied away from praising the midfielder. But, it has been one coach’s praise that has stood out for everyone. And it is none other than the Argentinian legendary manager, Marcelo Bielsa.
🗣️ Marcelo Bielsa: “The hardest player to find in football is the 8. I named it ‘the Modric’, who defends like a 6 and attacks like a 10.
He has the ability to defend, the skills to attack and understanding the game in both directions.” pic.twitter.com/oFbhgpMBvQ
— Football Tweet ⚽ (@Football__Tweet) December 4, 2023
Speaking to some journalists, Bielsa commented, “The hardest player to find in football is the 8. I named it ‘the Modric’, who defends like a 6 and attacks like a 10. He has the ability to defend, the skills to attack, and understanding the game in both directions.”
El Loco, who appointed Luka Modric as the namesake for the number 8 position, is now the coach of the Uruguayan National Soccer Team. Bielsa defined the defensive prowess and attacking skills of Modric behind his branding of the midfield position.
The 38-year-old midfielder is still going strong and playing his football in Europe’s top competitions. Modric’s passing range is exquisite, displayed by his inch-perfect long passes and heavenly Trivela balls.
Still in awe of this Luka Modrić trivela assist against Chelsea 🤤
(via @realmadrid)pic.twitter.com/HWXDKWXTZU
— B/R Football (@brfootball) March 17, 2023
Modric also has extreme endurance in tracking back and helping out his team, when defending a counter. His iconic tackle on Lionel Messi in the 2021/22 season Champions League round of 16, will be remembered for good.
The midfielder has also been very crucial for his national team. Croatia’s highest-capped player, Modric, debuted in 2006 and is still going strong. He has taken the tiny nation of Croatia to two finals including the 2018 World Cup final and also won a bronze medal at the 2022 FIFA World Cup. The inspiring story of the Cruyff of the Balkan from a refugee camp to the pinnacle of the score world continues to inspire Croatian children.
Luka Modric is unhappy with his playing time at Real Madrid
Luka Modric is reportedly unhappy with the number of starts he’s had in the 2023/24 season. The midfielder has only started 7 games this season.. Even his coach, Carlo Ancelotti has admitted Modric’s disappointment.
🚨🇭🇷 Luka Modrić is unhappy with his new situation at Real Madrid but he won’t give up and will fight in every training session to regain his undisputed role.
Those who know him well assure his behaviour will continue to be as exemplary as ever. He knows the season is long.… pic.twitter.com/iYeZImUGlV
— Madrid Xtra (@MadridXtra) August 29, 2023
This might give Modric the incentive to try out new challenges in his career. But, knowing the player that he is, the midfielder would probably fight for his place in the starting lineup.
Luka Modric has been a very loyal servant for Real Madrid. The midfielder would have to work on his fitness and make use of the limited playing time that he is given, to impress Ancelotti and become Los Blancos’ midfield general.