Real Madrid News
Dinamo Zagreb to name training pitch after Real Madrid icon Luka Modric
It is rare for a player in the world of sports to be regarded as a legend during his playing days. It is a privilege that only the best of the best enjoy and represents the epitome of the sport.
Luka Modric is one such individual in football. The Croatian midfielder still plays at the highest level for Real Madrid at the age of 37 and is already considered one of the best midfielders to have ever graced the field.
According to rumours from MARCA, Dinamo Zagreb’s training pitch near their stadium will be named after Luka Modric as a sign of respect. It has been decided through a democratic vote and shows the unanimous acceptance of the player’s greatness.
Modric began his career with the youth academy of Dinamo Zagreb back in Croatia in 2002. After a few seasons and loan spells from the Zagreb-based side, he entered Europe’s top leagues with a move to Tottenham Hotspur in 2008. Since then, he has not looked back.
At 37, the veteran midfielder is still an indispensable member of Carlo Ancelotti’s side and regularly clocks over 80 minutes even on Champions League nights. He is even expected to start later today when Los Blancos take on Chelsea in the semifinal of the UCL.
In seven Champions League appearances this season, Modric has scored two goals and provided one assist. Further, he averages one key pass per game and has created two big chances.
With Modric’s contract expiring at the end of the season, it has been suggested that the midfielder is set to sign a one-year contract extension with Real Madrid and that the talks were nearing completion.
Needless to say, his continuity will be a big relief for Carlo Ancelotti who also looks set to stay for 2023-24.
Real Madrid News
Real Madrid star Huijsen credits Mourinho for improved form in new season: ‘He supports me a lot’
Real Madrid will be looking to get back to winning ways in LaLiga as they take on Rayo Vallecano on Saturday.
The club are coming on the back of a 1-0 defeat to Real Betis last weekend but did secure a narrow win over Inter Milan in the midweek Champions League fixture.
Heading into this game, Dean Huijsen, who has been showing a lot of promise in these early parts of the season, spoke to the club’s official media about the match ahead and how Real Madrid have been coping with the pressure early on, among other things.
Huijsen on Rayo and his defensive duties
The young centre-back was fully aware of the threat posed by Rayo and praised the opposition.
“We know that Rayo is a good team, and it’s a tough team to face, and we must give our all as we do in all matches to secure the three points, that’s the only thing that matters, and for the Bernabeu to be with us and for us all to be united,” he said.
He also detailed the defensive demands placed on him by the coaching staff led by Jose Mourinho.
“Well, what every coach asks of you: ferocity, intercepting balls, and winning one-on-one duels. He supports me a lot, and I think this helps me greatly, and defending together as a team,” he said.
On the team’s preparations for the fixture, Huijsen offered an insight into their training routine.
“We’re working on some tactics related to the opponent. And well, after that it depends on the day; we might play a mini-match among ourselves or not,” he added.
Huijsen on Mourinho and his fine form
The Spaniard was quick to credit Mourinho, with whom he previously worked at Roma, for his development and current level.
“We’ve known each other for a while, even though we spent a relatively short time together in Rome. He gave me the opportunity to make the real leap into professional football, and I’ll always be grateful to him for that,” Huijsen said.
Reflecting on his own performances, the defender was in confident mood, once again pointing to the influence of his coach and teammates.
“I think I’m in good shape. Well, I think I’m delivering a good level, and I believe that’s thanks to the coach too, as he keeps track of me and takes great care of me.”
“Well, I’m also doing my very best, and I think the teammates are supporting me too, and this is the perfect equation,” he added.
Finally, Huijsen explained how he manages his recovery amid a congested schedule.
“There are a lot of matches, so we need to recover well and stay focused on football, then you have to sleep well. And yes, on the days after the match, I also take a cold shower and a hot shower to recover better,” he concluded.
