Luka Modric Nears Real Madrid History as He Celebrates His 38th Birthday

Luka Modric, the celebrated midfielder, marks his 38th birthday on Saturday. Currently on international duty with Croatia, Modric holds a unique position in the annals of Real Madrid’s history as both one of their greatest-ever midfielders and one of their oldest players.

Throughout Real Madrid’s storied history, only three players have graced the field for the club at the age of 38. Jerzy Dudek achieved this feat in 2011, while Francisco Buyo did so back in 1996. However, these veterans are all overshadowed by the legendary Ferenc Puskas, who played his final match for Los Blancos on November 21, 1965, at the age of 38 years and 234 days.

As reported by Diario AS, Luka Modric now stands on the brink of surpassing Ferenc Puskas to become Real Madrid’s oldest-ever player. This record could be within his grasp if he continues to feature in any of the club’s remaining five LaLiga fixtures, injury permitting—an achievement that seems highly likely given his continued importance to the team.

While Modric has assumed a squad rotation role under Carlo Ancelotti this season, his influence and value to Real Madrid remain undiminished. He is expected to maintain his significant role throughout the campaign.