Unseen on TV: Modrić’s Classy Message to Asencio About Mbappé’s Penalty
A farewell full of elegance, humility, and leadership from Luka Modrić
Last weekend, Real Madrid bid farewell to two of its greatest figures: Carlo Ancelotti and Luka Modrić. The club closed out their La Liga campaign with a 2-0 win over Real Sociedad at the Santiago Bernabéu — a match that served as the emotional final chapter in Modrić’s legendary spell in white.
The Croatian maestro, who started the match, received a heartfelt guard of honor from both his teammates and the Real Sociedad players. The Bernabéu crowd, fully aware they were witnessing the end of an era, showered him with standing ovations and relentless applause throughout the match. But it was a moment that happened away from the cameras that best captured Modrić’s character.
💬 “Why aren’t you taking the penalty?”
In the first half, Real Madrid earned a penalty after a handball by Pablo Marín, following a pass from Arda Güler to Kylian Mbappé. Naturally, the Frenchman stepped up to take the spot kick, eager to add to his goal tally and chase the European Golden Boot.
But before the penalty was taken, Raúl Asencio, another young Madrid talent, asked Modrić a question many fans were probably thinking too:
“Why aren’t you taking it? It’s your last game at the Bernabéu.”
Modrić’s response was as humble as it was telling of his character:
“No, no. Kylian needs it for the Golden Boot.”
⚪ The Definition of a Leader
Even on what was supposed to be his night, Luka Modrić once again demonstrated his selflessness and team-first mentality. In a world where many would crave the spotlight, Modrić chose instead to support a teammate in pursuit of individual achievement — a gesture of pure class that encapsulates why he is revered not just as a footballer, but as a human being.
🏁 The End of an Era, the Start of a Legacy
With this act, Modrić reminded everyone why he’s one of the most respected figures in the game. As he walks away from the Bernabéu turf for the final time, he leaves behind a legacy not only of trophies and performances — but of values, humility, and leadership that will echo through Real Madrid’s halls for generations to come.
