As Real Madrid’s summer reshuffle continues to gain momentum, it appears that new dynamics are already taking shape inside the Santiago Bernabéu. With Xabi Alonso set to officially take charge of the team in the summer of 2025, the club is not only focusing on its current stars but also evaluating fresh requests and preferences from its high-profile players—none more influential than Kylian Mbappé.
According to a report from Defensa Central, Mbappé recently stunned club president Florentino Pérez with an unexpected transfer request. While many anticipated that the French superstar would lobby for fellow countrymen like Vitinha or Arsenal defender William Saliba, Mbappé surprised everyone by advocating for the continued presence of one of Madrid’s oldest legends—Luka Modrić.
In a private meeting with Pérez, the 26-year-old forward reportedly made a heartfelt appeal to keep Modrić in the squad for at least one more season. Calling him “a special player” with unmatched intelligence and character, Mbappé emphasized that Modrić’s experience and leadership are vital components in maintaining the winning culture at the club. He believes the Croatian maestro still has plenty to offer, both on and off the pitch.
This endorsement from Mbappé carries considerable weight. Since joining Real Madrid, he has not only become the team’s primary attacking weapon but also an emerging voice in the locker room. Pérez, known for respecting the opinions of his top players, is said to have listened attentively—even though squad decisions remain the domain of the club’s technical staff.
Modrić, whose contract is set to run through the Club World Cup later this year, has not made any official declaration about leaving. In fact, sources close to him suggest he is determined to continue until at least the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The legendary midfielder is reportedly in peak condition and feels confident about contributing meaningfully, even if his role is more rotational in nature.
Real Madrid’s recent win over Sevilla served as a reminder of how essential experience still is in a squad brimming with youth. Despite no longer being an automatic starter, Modrić has consistently demonstrated that he can change the tempo of a game with just a few touches. This composure, vision, and ability to lead under pressure are qualities that remain scarce, even among world-class squads.
According to Relevo journalist Jorge Picón, direct talks between Modrić and Pérez are expected in the coming weeks. As was the case last summer, the two will evaluate the situation based on the player’s fitness, motivation, and the club’s tactical needs. With Alonso’s arrival adding another layer to the conversation, Modrić’s continuity could also help stabilize the transition.
Interestingly, Xabi Alonso’s relationship with Modrić is a factor that cannot be ignored. The two shared a midfield partnership during their playing days at Real Madrid and hold mutual respect for each other’s footballing brains. Alonso is reportedly eager to have Modrić act as a conduit between the older generation and the emerging talents, potentially making him a key figure in the dressing room beyond just his minutes on the field.
Despite his age—he will turn 40 during the 2025–26 season—Modrić remains a beloved figure among fans and teammates. Every time he steps onto the pitch, the crowd at the Bernabéu rises in admiration. His humility, professionalism, and consistency have made him an enduring symbol of the Real Madrid ethos.
Financially, the club is prepared to offer Modrić a new one-year deal, though it would likely come with a salary cut and assurances about reduced playing time. Sources indicate that the player is open to such an arrangement, recognizing the evolving reality of his role and placing more value on contribution than compensation.
For Kylian Mbappé, this request is not merely about sentimentality. It reflects a deeper understanding of what makes championship teams tick. In his eyes, Modrić is more than just a veteran—he’s a mentor, a calming presence in the dressing room, and an on-field brain that can guide the team in difficult moments.
As Real Madrid prepares for another ambitious season under a new coach and a restructured squad, Mbappé’s surprising request to keep Modrić could end up being one of the most important decisions of the summer. It’s a reminder that leadership and legacy still matter in modern football—perhaps more than ever.
