Luka Modric arrived at Real Madrid when he was nearly 27 years of age. In his first campaign with the club, he was voted the worst signing of the season. Most players don't return from that. But the Croatian is not just another player. Since then, he has established himself as one of the greatest of all-time and even won a Ballon d'Or, something only he managed while Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo were in their primes.
Modric made some more Real Madrid history this week, further strengthening his case in the all-time greats discussion. He became the most decorated player in the club's entire history by winning his 27th trophy in the Royal White jersey. Nobody has won more.
It was the UEFA Super Cup. Real Madrid defeated Atalanta, thanks to goals from a debuting Kylian Mbappe and Fede Valverde.
For such a long time, Modric was expected to leave Real Madrid this summer, as he was not getting much game time early on in the 23/24 season. But with Toni Kroos retiring, it was the right decision for him to continue. It would have been a mistake to lose that kind of experience in one summer.
Luka Modric breaks all-time Real Madrid record
Modric is set to turn 39 years old in less than a month. He is very much in the twilight of his career and no longer the nailed-on starter for Real Madrid that he once was. So, let's enjoy the football that he still has remaining in the tank.
It has been a pleasure to watch Modric in the Royal White jersey. Hopefully, he will be able to add to his already impressive trophy cabinet before he calls it a day and retires like Kroos.
When that day comes, Real Madrid will be ready. They always are. No other club could have seen legends like Cristiano Ronaldo, Karim Benzema, Gareth Bale, Sergio Ramos, Marcelo, Casemiro, Raphael Varane and so many others leave within the space of a few years and continue to be the best team in Europe like nothing had changed.