Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti has suggested that veteran midfielders Luka Modric and Toni Kroos could be phased out as the club begins to rebuild....CONTINUE READING
In recent weeks, Kroos and Modric appear to have lost their guaranteed places in the starting XI, with Eduardo Camavinga and Dani Ceballos taking their places.
And it’s not just a matter of rest, according to Ancelotti. As the club looks to ease a wave of youth talent into the side, the duo will have to fight for their spots in Madrid’s lineup.
Carlo Ancelotti stated that Luka Modric and Toni Kroos understand that the team is in a “transition period,” which means they will not start every game.
Ancelotti, on the other hand, believes the two midfielders will be “decisive” in their Copa del Rey quarterfinal clash with Atletico Madrid on Thursday.
Modric and Kroos were left on the bench as Madrid defeated Athletic Club 2-0 in La Liga on Sunday.
Both were introduced in the second half, and Kroos scored in the 90th minute.
“They’re experienced. They understand the club’s identity and the caliber of its roster. I don’t think I need to explain why they don’t always play.
“It’s a period of transition in the squad that everyone must recognize.” It comes down to the veterans’ understanding and the patience of the youth. “That was crucial to our success last season as well,” Ancelotti said at a news conference on Wednesday.
