Real Madrid are set to face Juventus in the round of 16 of the Club World Cup, a match that, if they win, could pit them directly against former legend and captain Sergio Ramos, provided his club also moves past its knockout game.
Playing Juventus can be tough, and Xabi Alonso has reiterated that. They remain a European giant and have troubled Real Madrid on many occasions.
It will be a legendary matchup, although the recent form of the Bianconeri suggests Madrid are the favourites to win this tie.
But if, and only if, Real Madrid exit the competition after a defeat to Juventus, that result would effectively mark the last game for Real Madrid’s most celebrated midfielder, Luka Modric.
Luka Modric may play his final Real Madrid game against Juventus
Luka Modric has been one of, if not the, most legendary midfielders in Real Madrid history. His contribution has been immense, and the longevity with which he has served Los Blancos could earn another award on its own.
Modric has won everything during his time in the Spanish capital: a Ballon d’Or, multiple Champions League titles, several La Liga trophies, and a host of other accolades.
At this point, he does not need to win more to be celebrated by Real Madrid fans as a legend. What he has done for the club over the years already defines his devotion.
Even in his planned move to AC Milan, one of the main reasons he chose the Italian side was that Milan will not compete in any European tournament next season, avoiding any chance of playing against Real Madrid. Modric made it clear: he does not want to face the team that turned him from a boy into a man.
Of course, the likelihood that the Juventus game becomes Modric’s last match in a Real Madrid shirt is low, but never zero. Keep that in mind while you watch him play. This could be the final time he wears the white crest on his chest.