Modric exit viewed as error, Carvajal ‘to decide’ on Real Madrid extension | OneFootball

Real Madrid are assessing a disappointing campaign with seven La Liga matches to play, their planning already geared towards next season and a stronger tilt at Barcelona and Europe.

Last summer Luka Modric left on a free to AC Milan after not being offered a new deal. On the Here We Go podcast, Fabrizio Romano said senior figures at the club believe that decision was a mistake, more for the loss of dressing-room leadership than midfield output.

The loss of leaders has often been cited as a factor in the Santiago Bernabeu malaise. Attention now turns to a similar call on Dani Carvajal. The 34-year-old right back has played sparingly and is out of contract this summer after major injuries across the past three years.

The latest position is that Real Madrid will allow him to decide whether to sign a new one-year extension.

Carvajal and Thibaut Courtois were central to the club’s European success in the 2010s. In recent seasons, the departures of Nacho Fernandez, Karim Benzema, Toni Kroos, Marcelo, Joselu Mato and Modric have stripped experience from the squad.

Beyond the right-back decision, Real Madrid are expected to reshape, with Alvaro Arbeloa likely to be moved on as manager and no clear successor yet. Recruitment is planned, with a midfielder and a centre-back at the top of the summer list.

Source: Football Espana