Real Madrid News
Real Madrid icon’s availability for Copa del Rey final not in danger, to undergo tests today
Apart from the dented morale following the harrowing defeat at the hands of Girona earlier this week, Real Madrid fans had another major concern as midfield mainstay Luka Modric had to come off with a knock during the game.
The 37-year-old, who started the match at Estadi Montilivi, was withdrawn in the second period and was soon after spotted on the bench with an ice pack on his left thigh.
It sent alarm bells ringing among the fanbase, ahead of a crucial couple of weeks for the Merengues as they gear up to face CA Osasuna in the Copa del Rey final before the double-header against Manchester City in the UEFA Champions League semi-final.
But, according to a fresh report from AS, there is no reason to be worried about Modric and his fitness, as the 37-year-old club legend’s availability for the Copa del Rey final is not in danger.
The report states that the Croatian international rested yesterday at his home with there being no training scheduled. And he is set to undergo some tests today to determine the extent of his injury.
But the message coming through from the club is that there are no serious concerns surrounding the physical condition of Modric and that he will be available for the crucial games coming up next month.
There is a probability that the midfield icon, whose contract renewal is now being taken for granted, could be rested for the upcoming La Liga clash against UD Almeria so that he can arrive for the big games in May in tip-top shape.
Despite being 37 years old, Modric continues to be a permanent fixture in Carlo Ancelotti’s Real Madrid setup. The midfielder has played 44 games across all competitions this term, scoring and assisting six goals apiece.
Real Madrid set out on a mission to change the minds of Dani Ceballos, Marco Asensio and Nacho Fernandez earlier this week. After all, all three players were contemplating a departure from the club for a gross lack of minutes.
Los Blancos’ latest approach seems to have impacted Ceballos’ position in a positive fashion. However, Fabrizio Romano reveals that it has not changed Marco Asensio’s mind.
According to the Italian journalist, the Spaniard will leave Real Madrid at the end of the season as a free agent.
Of the numerous options on his table, he sees Aston Villa and PSG to be the best bets. In fact, Villa have already submitted their opening bid for the player as revealed by Fabrizio Romano once again.
After a dramatic final day of action in the Premier League, Aston Villa finished in the European spots and will participate in the UEFA Conference League next season. While a move to the English club would be a steep step down, it will see Asensio receive regular playing time.
Paris-Saint Germain, on that front, appears the more probable destination. The French club are close to losing both Lionel Messi and Neymar Jr ahead of the new season, and Asensio would thus fit in as a starting quality winger. Moreover, they offer Champions League football.
The Spaniard’s role at Real Madrid this season has not been minor by any means considering his contributions. In 30 La Liga appearances, the 27-year-old has scored nine goals and provided six assists in addition to creating nine big chances and averaging 1.4 key passes per game.
However, that does not satisfy the winger who wishes to be a starter week in and week out. His departure in June appears to be now written in stone, and the club should feel hard done to not make a penny of his move.
Many in Los Blancos’ administration see Brahim Diaz as a direct replacement for the Spanish international if he leaves. Needless to say, the AC Milan star’s future will closely depend on Asensio’s situation.
