Luka Modric explained the decision to make Arda Güler with 12 words instead of Mbappe: “The future of Real Madrid is not he and no one else”
Luka Modric, one of the best midfielder of the Croatian Master and the club, one of the best midfielder ever, announced that he would leave Santiago Bernabeu after the 2025 FIFA Clubs World Cup. It means the end of a 13 -year period full of unique achievements, including six Champions League championships, four La Liga championships and unique achievements, including a Ballon d’Or in 2018. However, as a Real Madrid player, the last movement that attracted global interest was transferred to the legendary 10 -year -old jersey to Arda Güler, a 20 -year -old Turkish, and made it with a 12 -word short and concise explanation: “The future of Real Madrid is not someone else.”
Modric’s decision to choose Güler as the heir to the number 10 uniform identified with creativity and leadership in Real Madrid led to widespread controversy. Many people were waiting for the French Superstar Kylian Mbappe, who transferred to Real Madrid in 2024 and won the Pichichi Award and Gold Shoes with 44 goals in the first season. Already a global icon and France’s 10 number Mbappe, Luis Figo, Mesut Özil and Modric, such as the legacy of legends seemed to be a natural choice. However, Modric’s preferred Güler instead of Mbappe says a lot about the vision of the club’s future and the qualities he cares about in his next generation.
Croatian experienced player, albeit short, reflect the deep understanding of Real Madrid’s spirit. Güler, a technically talented midfielder, represents the art and intelligence that Modric has brought to Bernabeu for more than a decade. Since he was transferred from Fenerbahçe in 2023, especially in the 2025/26 season, the new coach Xabi Alonso had a brilliant moments. The ability to move in narrow spaces, to throw effective passes and to contribute to defense were compared with Modric’s own game style. After the last match, a symbolic gesture, Modric gave his uniform to Güler; This moment was interpreted by many people as the transfer of the torch.
Mbappe represents a different archetype, although it is an undisputed worldwide talent. The explosive tempo, sharp finishing and marketiziness made him the face of Real Madrid’s new era, but the role of the 9th jersey, previously worn by my wife Benzema, is in accordance with the skill of scoring goals. Modric’s decision shows that the jersey number 10 is allocated for a gamemaker who manages the game and that Güler was raised for the mastery of this role. Despite his young age, the young Turk won the trust of Alonso, whom he is increasingly trusted in the midfield with his performance in big matches.
The importance of Modric’s choice goes beyond the field. In Real Madrid, the number 10 is not only one number; It is also a symbol of creativity, responsibility and heritage. In the past, those who wear the uniform described the periods and the weight of the expectations is huge. Modric shows Güler’s confidence in the young player’s ability to shoulder this load. This gesture also coincides with the strategy of balance between Real Madrid’s experience in European football and youth. While Mbappe’s star power guarantees commercial success, Güler represents a long -term investment in the football identity of the club.
Modric’s separation leaves a difficult space to fill. 590 matches wearing, 43 goals and winning 28 big trophies won, Real Madrid is the most cup winner in the history of the history. The ability to manage the matches with sensitivity and elegance gave him the admiration of the fans and the respect of his colleagues, including Cristiano Ronaldo. Cristiano Ronaldo “Thank you for everything Luka.” he wrote. Modric is preparing to join AC Milan for the 2025/26 season, while its legacy in Real Madrid remains immunity.
The current challenge for Güler is to meet the expectations of the mentor. The number 10 jersey is both an honor and an exam. Real Madrid, Modric’s FIFA Clubs World Cup semifinals after the last match against the PSG to leave the jersey to leave the jersey, emphasized the importance of the uniform once again. It is not yet clear whether Güler could imitate Modric’s magic or draw his own way, but Modric’s 12 words have prepared the ground of a new section. While Real Madrid is looking at the future, Arda Güler carries the hopes of a club and the blessing of a legend.
