Cesc Fabregas has given an eye-opening assessment of a former Real Madrid star whose departure is still up for debate. The former Barcelona midfielder has entered the managerial dugout since retiring.
The Spaniard is in charge of Italian outfit Como and took his side to the San Siro on Wednesday (February 18th). They drew 1-1 and Fabregas was blown away by Luka Modric's performance.
Modric left Madrid last summer when his contract expired and joined Milan as a free agent. The club decided to part ways with the iconic Croat despite him showing that he still has plenty to offer.
Fabregas hails Modric
That's been the case for the 40-year-old during his debut season with the Rossoneri. He rolled back the years in Milan's draw against Como, pulling the strings in midfield as he did throughout his 13 trophy-laden seasons at the Santiago Bernabeu.
Modric completed 60 of 66 passes, won seven of 10 ground duels and won four of eight tackles. It was a display that reminded Madrid just how infuental the Croat remains despite his age.
Fabregas waxed lyrical about the six-time Champions League winner following the game. He said (via TNT Sports):
“It's a pleasure to see him play. 40 years old and playing at this level. We tried to press him, attack him, he doesn't give a damn. We have to thank him that he's here with us in Serie A and we can enjoy him!"
Modric is two years older than Fabregas which makes it even more remarkable that he is still wowing at this stage of his careeer. The latter was a magnificent midfielder himself who won the La Liga title during his time at Barcelona.
Madrid miss Modric
Not only would Madrid have benefitted from Madric's creativity this season but his leadership qualities will have come in handy. Alvaro Arbeloa could have leaned on the Croat given his inexperience managing a senior team.
Having Modric in his squad for the La Liga title race especially while two points ahead of Barca could have made a massive difference. Injury setbacks have also taken hold at the Bernabeu with Jude Bellingham currently sidelined with a hamstring problem.
Modric has appeared more times in Serie A this season than any other Milan player. If there were doubts over his fitness due to his age they have been firmly put to bed.
The Croat will forever be one of Los Merengues' most celebrated playmakers in history. He will be eager to add another piece of silverware to his trophy cabinet with his side second in the Serie A table, seven points behind leaders Inter Milan.