Real Madrid left the Estadio Montilivi slightly behind schedule following their 3-0 win over Girona. The reason for this? A doping test imposed on Luka Modric, Madrid’s captain. According to journalist Guillermo Rai, this procedure meant that the team had to wait before heading home.
Real Madrid beat Girona 3-0 in the league on Saturday evening. Luka Modric, who had a fairly average first half, raised his game in the second. In fact, he provided Kylian Mbappé with an out-of-this-world pass for the goal that brought Girona to their knees for good. While several key players, such as Federico Valverde and Arda Güler, were substituted before the end of the match against Girona, Luka Modric played the full 90 minutes.
JUDE 😭🤍 pic.twitter.com/rNGMwNowTg
— Ele (@EleModric) December 7, 2024
The veteran Croatian’s surprising activity surprised everyone, including those in charge. According to journalist Guillermo Rai, after the match Luka Modric was called in for an anti-doping test. This protocol is part of FIFA’s strict measures to preserve the integrity of football. These random tests, carried out before or after matches, are designed to ensure that performances on the pitch remain honest and free from banned substances. This surprise has delayed Real Madrid’s departure from Girona.
🚨 Real Madrid are yet to leave Girona’s stadium because Luka Modrić is undergoing an anti-doping test. @GuillermoRai_ pic.twitter.com/0V7udoycen
— Madrid Xtra (@MadridXtra) December 7, 2024
Modric, an example for young players
Luka Modric is not only an experienced player, he also remains one of the driving forces behind Madrid’s attack. In La Liga this season, he created 31 chances for the Casa Blanca, a Merengues record. Even more impressive is the fact that he created 11 great chances against Girona, a figure that exceeds that of many younger attacking players. These statistics confirm that, even as he approaches 40, Luka Modric remains an indispensable pillar of Real Madrid. The Croatian captain has also provided three assists in 21 games this season.
⭐️🇭🇷 Luka Modrić vs Girona:
— Madrid Xtra (@MadridXtra) December 7, 2024
• 90 minutes
• 1 assist
• 121 touches (most)
• 103/112 passes completed (most)
• 2 big chances created (most)
• 4 key passes (most)
• 8/10 long balls (most)
• 2 clearances
• 1 interception
• 1 tackle
• 4 recoveries pic.twitter.com/ZIb3sgVRq0
In any case, Carlo Ancelotti still relies on Modric to dictate the tempo and organise attacks. Whether launching rapid counter-attacks or exploiting the space left by opponents, he continues to demonstrate an exceptional command of the game, worthy of his Ballon d’Or 2018 status.
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