Cristiano Ronaldo has spent much of his career turning soccer’s most daunting milestones into routine achievements, and Luka Modric, his former Real Madrid teammate, is well aware of that. Both veterans remain active at the top level, and Modric believes Ronaldo still has plenty of skill left as he eyes another historic benchmark.
The Croatian midfielder has observed Ronaldo’s development up close, sharing some of the most memorable moments in Real Madrid’s history. Now, as the Portuguese star approaches a figure that has long seemed unattainable, Modric has offered a striking forecast about how long his former teammate might keep playing.
Modric and Ronaldo were teammates for six seasons at Real Madrid from 2012 to 2018, part of a side that dominated European football. The duo secured four Champions League trophies together, along with many domestic and international accolades, before going their separate ways.
Their shared past gives Modric a distinctive view of Ronaldo’s mindset. While many players start to decline in their late 30s and early 40s, Ronaldo continues to score and compete at an exceptional level. Speaking to Diario AS, Modric said: “Cristiano is incredible; he’s a phenomenon, a monster, and I have no doubt that he’s going to reach that number.”
Cristiano Ronaldo (R) of Real Madrid CF celebrates with his team mate Luka Modric
Modric was asked whether he expected Ronaldo to hit 1,000 official career goals, a feat that would make him the first player to reach that mark. Ronaldo was reportedly only 22 goals away from the milestone at the time of the interview.
Why Luka Modric Isn’t Surprised Ronaldo Could Keep Playing Into His 50s
Modric’s belief extends well beyond the 1,000‑goal mark. He explained that Ronaldo’s mindset and innate knack for finding the net make it hard to set a conventional career ceiling. Modric told Diario AS: “I don’t know how much longer he’ll want to keep playing, but he’s going to keep scoring goals even if he wants to continue until he’s 50.”
He highlighted Ronaldo’s character, confidence, and relentless drive to compete. Modric added: “His ability to score is extraordinary, and above all, his character, his faith, and his self‑confidence; it’s something incredible.”
This blend makes Modric’s projection read more like an informed appraisal than hyperbole. At 41, Ronaldo remains focused on scoring with the same fierce competitiveness that marked his prime.
The Enduring Friendship forged at Real Madrid
The bond between the two veterans runs deeper than their on‑field achievements. Modric has often spoken fondly of Ronaldo’s personality off the pitch, and Ronaldo has repeatedly expressed his admiration for the Croatian midfielder.
Together they helped shape one of Real Madrid’s most dominant periods. Their four Champions League victories defined the mid‑2010s era of European dominance, with Ronaldo leading the assault and Modric dictating play from midfield.
Their paths later diverged, yet both have shunned traditional retirement schedules. Modric now plays for Milan, while Ronaldo continues his career with Al‑Nassr in the Saudi Pro League.
For the moment, the focus is on reaching the 1,000‑goal milestone. With just 22 goals separating Ronaldo from history, Modric has little doubt his former teammate will eventually achieve it.
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