Former Real Madrid star Luka Modric delivered a typical world class performance in AC Milan's 1-0 win over Inter Milan in the Milan derby. The iconic Croat was man of the match, controlling the game in the middle of the park as the Rossoneri closed the gap on their title rivals to seven points.
Pervis Estupian scored the winner in the 35th minute as Massimiliano Allegri's men earned bragging rights at the San Siro. Modric put in yet another stunning display which has been a recurring theme since he joined Milan after leaving Madrid last summer.
Modric has now made 30 appearances across competitions, posting two goals and three assists. He has made Los Blancos' decision not to extend his contract look foolish.
A Luka reunion?
Recent reports have suggested that Modric could very well return to the Santiago Bernabeu this summer. Allegri has reportedly been added to Florentino Perez's managerial shortlist and the Italian would want to take the Croatian midfielder and Adrien Rabiot with him to the Spanish capital.
Modric was asked about speculation over a possible reunion with the La Liga giants. He said (via Madrid Xtra):
"Me and Allegri at Real Madrid? The rumours are always there, but I don't care. I'm very happy here at Milan."
Modric spent 13 years with Madrid having joined the club from Tottenham Hotspur in the summer of 2012. He wrote his name in the club's history books, registering 43 goals and 95 assists in 597 games.
The 2018 Ballon d'Or winner won every major trophy on offer, including six Champions Leagues and four La Liga titles. He formed a formidable midfield trio with Toni Kroos and Casemiro.
Modric is believed to have wanted to stay at Madrid but the club decided to move in a new direction. At 40 years of age he is putting in performances that are reminding the higher-ups that he still has plenty to offer.
Luka's Milan derby dominance
Modric was the star of the show in the Milan derby and earned plaudits throughout Italian football. He made one key pass, found his man with eight of 12 long balls and was also excellent defensively.
The Croat won both of his tackles, made one interception and three clearances. It's not the first time this season when he has come to the fore for Allegri.
Madrid are set to enter the transfer market for a new creative midfielder in the summer. They have undoubtedly failed to replace their heroic former Croatian midfield maestro.