🚨 REAL MADRID SHOCK: Ancelotti DROPS Modric for Arsenal Showdown
Luka Modric has been benched for Real Madrid’s Champions League quarter-final clash against Arsenal, as Carlo Ancelotti opts for a youth-powered midfield overhaul, per MARCA.
Despite starting 4 of Madrid’s last 6 matches and delivering 11 goal contributions this season, the 39-year-old maestro will watch from the sidelines as Bellingham, Valverde, and Camavinga form the engine room at the Emirates.
Modric, whose contract expires this summer, leads Los Blancos in chance creation (3.1 per 90) but finds himself sacrificed in a tactical shake-up aimed at containing Arsenal’s high-press and pace.
Ancelotti’s attacking line will feature Vinicius Jr., Mbappe, and Rodrygo, with David Alaba shifting to left-back to handle Bukayo Saka. Meanwhile, Lucas Vazquez replaces Carvajal on the right in a bold defensive adjustment.
With Madrid short on midfield depth—Tchouameni and Ceballos both out—this decision hints at a future without Modric and a growing reliance on the club’s next generation.
All eyes now turn to North London as the Spanish giants gamble with evolution on the biggest stage.
