Luka Modric Injury: Updates on Real Madrid Star's Status and Return

Real Madrid midfielder Luka Modric suffered a muscular problem on May 8 and hasn't played since. However, he's ready to return.

Continue for updates.

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Modric Named to Starting XI

Saturday, May 28

Real Madrid announced Modric will start against Atletico Madrid in the Champions League final:

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Modric's Playmaking Creates Scoring Chances for Madrid

The Croatian playmaker is a stylish pass-master who hovers between the lines and keeps a consistent line of supply open to strikers Cristiano Ronaldo, Karim Benzema and Bale.

Modric isn't much of a goal threat, but his control of the ball is crucial to the expansive and attractive brand of football Los Merengues supporters often demand. His varied range of passing, clever appreciation of space and artful distribution are essential qualities in the Real setup.

In fact, FourFourTwo's Lee Roden described how the former Tottenham Hotspur man's complete game makes him unique in Los Blancos' midfield ranks:

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In a team with too many No.10s masquerading as central midfielders, Modric is a rarity in that he is an excellent all-round middle man. Under Zidane it’s equally common to see the 30-year-old showing for possession on the edge of the opposition area as it is to see him drop back between the centre-backs to provide a clean build-up near his own box. Team-mates know that regardless of where he is, he can be trusted with the ball.

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Modric's return should open up more opportunities for Madrid's major scoring threats on Saturday as Los Blancos seeks to earn a Champions League title.