Luka Modric is one of Real Madrid's most enduring legends. In my opinion, he is one of Real Madrid's finest midfielders of all time, ranking among Zinedine Zidane, Toni Kroos, Fernando Redondo, and others.
Modric has definitely had one hell of a career trajectory, from being dubbed the worst signing by the media to receiving standing ovations from both home and away supporters week after week.
At Real Madrid, he has won everything. Champions League, Club World Cups, Super Cups, La Liga, and everything else this badge has competed for. So far, riding with him has been a rollercoaster.
Modric's value to the Real Madrid squad is unsurpassed. Even at his age, he is the best midfielder in the squad, as evidenced by his performance in the Copa Del Rey final, when he and Arda Guler turned Los Blancos' fortunes around.
The great turns 40 in September of this year, but his future with Real Madrid will be decided much before. The following days will be critical in determining if he renews for another season.
But he won't be here for long, so finding a successor is vital. However, the replacement will not come from someplace else. Real Madrid already have it; they just need to acknowledge it.
Arda Guler will be the best suitor to take the mantle from Luka Modric
Arda Guler is currently one of the world's most sought-after young midfielders. He battled to get the minutes he so needed under Ancelotti, but whatever he did get, he demonstrated why it was always a mistake not to give him more.
He has been excellent in the last few games, bringing a new energy to the midfield, giving it something new, unique, and effective.
As a deep lying midfielder, he is most prepared to take over from Luka Modric, who frequently plays the same position. Not to mention his supposed finesse.
One of the things I like most about Guler is his vision on the field. His eyes can see through tight places and find the ball when other players cannot. He makes some extremely smart last passes that easily beat a few of opposition players, creating a great opportunity for Madrid to score.
Furthermore, his concept aligns with Real Madrid's current attacking line. One must understand that Real Madrid's strikers, whether Kylian Mbappe or Vinicius Jr., make a livelihood by their excellent pace. Both runners are too talented on and off the ball, and the ingenuity of someone like Arda Guler just adds to their strengths.
In addition, Guler's playmaking is straightforward. For starters, he has confidence on the ball. His calmness is excellent for a 20-year-old, which explains why he can hold the ball for extended lengths of time, scan the area, and provide instant results in the blink of an eye.
He does not run when it is not necessary. He is a no-nonsense midfielder who does not confuse the situation. He gives a tranquility to the middle that only Luka Modric possesses. He is the closest thing Real Madrid have to a replacement for Modric, and the closest thing in world football as well.