Carlo Ancelotti opens up on contract talks with frustrated Luka Modric
- Luka Modric's Real Madrid contract expires in the summer
- 38-year-old is unhappy over lack of starts this season
- Carlo Ancelotti revealed empathy for Modric but did not give commitment on his future
By Sean Walsh
Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti has admitted he has personally held talks with Luka Modric to discuss the midfielder's increasingly uncertain future at the Santiago Bernabeu.
Modric's contract expires in the summer and negotiations have not progressed over fresh terms, with the 38-year-old said to be unhappy with his limited playing time.
The veteran Croatian, who has been linked to Lionel Messi's Inter Miami in recent months, has largely been reduced to appearances from the bench this season. Ancelotti has preferred to use more youthful options alongside Madrid's other experienced midfielder in Toni Kroos.
Ahead of Sunday's trip to Rayo Vallecano, Ancelotti was again asked about Modric's limited role at Madrid so far this term.
"I have talked about this topic many times with you and with him once. Enough," Ancelotti replied.
"Obviously for someone used to playing almost every game, or all of them, it's hard, it's difficult for him to sit on the bench. I respect and understand it perfectly. But his behaviour is very professional, serious, training, fighting. He is available and can play in any game, including tomorrow's [against Rayo].
"He continues to contribute the same as he did before, when he played every game. He is a highly respected figure and an example of how he should be a professional. Every day he trains hard and, if he doesn't play, he contributes what he contributed before. He continues to be a reference for the squad."
Ancelotti also discussed Madrid's decision to offer their older players rolling one-year contracts, adding: "The club's policy has been that, in recent years, with the legends who have one year left on their contract: Kroos, Nacho...everyone. I spoke with Luka about this topic a month ago and everything is quite clear between the two of us."
Modric has made 515 appearances for Madrid since joining from Tottenham Hotspur in 2012, winning a staggering 24 trophies in the Spanish capital.
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