In modern football, it’s become almost a rarity for aging stars to stick around with their longtime clubs and take on a reduced role. Most opt to chase the last remnants of their prime elsewhere, often in leagues where the spotlight is dimmer, and the competition a little softer. But here’s the kicker—it rarely goes the way they envision, and in the process, they often do more harm than good to their legacies. Luka Modrić, on the other hand, is an exception to this rule, and his approach is one that more players should take a hard look at.
Modrić’s Playbook for Career Longevity
At 39, Modrić remains with Real Madrid, accepting the natural progression of his career. He’s not demanding a starting role. He’s not throwing his weight around, insisting that his legendary status entitles him to play 90 minutes every match. Instead, he’s embraced the role of a contributor, coming off the bench or starting occasionally, providing wisdom and flashes of brilliance that only a seasoned veteran can offer.
It’s a far cry from the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo, who left Manchester United (again) rather than accept a smaller role, or Lionel Messi, who departed Barcelona when things got messy—no pun intended. The latter two players may still be able to pull off jaw-dropping moments, but their insistence on remaining focal points often puts them in uncomfortable situations, leaving a bit of tarnish on otherwise glittering careers.
For Modrić, the decision to remain with Real Madrid, even in a supporting capacity, has allowed him to maintain the dignity of his legacy. It’s a quieter kind of brilliance, the sort that ages well, much like the player himself. He’s chosen the harder path—the one where you prioritize the long-term respect of your club and fans over the short-term chase for individual accolades.
The Problem with Chasing a Fading Spotlight
When players of Modrić’s caliber choose to leave their longtime clubs because they’re no longer the first name on the team sheet, it rarely ends well. Take Ronaldo’s stint in Saudi Arabia or Messi’s move to MLS as examples. Sure, they’re still playing at a high level, but the context has changed, and the shine has dulled. The move to lesser leagues, while lucrative and still somewhat competitive, feels like a concession—a tacit admission that the top level is no longer theirs to command.
There’s an unmistakable disappointment among fans when they see their heroes in diminished circumstances, playing in matches that don’t carry the same weight. And it’s not just about the level of competition; it’s about what these moves represent. A player like Modrić, choosing to remain with Real Madrid despite fewer minutes, keeps the connection with the club and its history intact. Ronaldo and Messi, in chasing the ghost of their former dominance, end up playing in environments that can’t match the legacy they’ve left behind.
Legacy: More Than Just Minutes Played
What Modrić understands—and what so many other stars fail to grasp—is that legacy is built on more than just being the star of the show. There’s something to be said for remaining at a club where you’ve been part of its greatest moments, even if your role evolves over time. In fact, embracing that evolution can enhance your legacy rather than detract from it.
Kevin De Bruyne is another example of a player who could benefit from this mindset. As injuries and age begin to take their toll, will he be willing to step back and allow younger players to shine while still contributing in meaningful ways? Or will he chase another club or league where he can be the main attraction again? The answer to that question may ultimately define how he’s remembered.
A Model for Aging Stars
Luka Modrić is showing a path forward for aging stars who want to preserve their legacies. It’s not about clinging to the past or chasing moments of individual glory in lesser environments. It’s about recognizing that your role can change, and that change doesn’t have to be a bad thing. In fact, it can be what sets you apart from those who hang on too long, chasing the fading spotlight until there’s nothing left to chase.
As more of today’s greats face the inevitable reality of aging, Modrić’s example should serve as a reminder that there’s honor in adaptation. By accepting that you’re no longer the focal point but still have something to offer, you can remain a part of something bigger than yourself. And in the process, you might just solidify your legacy as one of the greats—without ever having to chase it down again.