Raul douses Bellingham’s comparison to Zidane as Modric wants Madrid’s extension

 

 A once-iconic member of the attacking ranks at La Liga giants Real Madrid Raul González on Monday provided his take on comparisons between current Blancos talent Jude Bellingham, and Zinedine Zidane.

The name of midfielder Bellingham has of course returned to the forefront of the headlines in Spain’s capital once more over the last 24 hours.

This comes after the England international went about endearing himself ever further to all associated with Real Madrid.

With the sides locked at two goals apiece, Bellingham popped up at the back post, to slot home what proved to be the winner in the latest edition of El Clásico.

His 21st goal of what has proven nothing short of a historic debut campaign at the Santiago Bernabéu, comparisons with some of the greatest players to ever pull on the colours of the capital giants have, in turn, inevitably begun to spread.

One such player to have been pushed into the conversation, meanwhile, comes in the form of Zidane.

Ex-midfielder Zidane of course spent some of the finest years of his legendary career lighting up Madrid with spectacular goals, assists, flicks, tricks, and more.

Speaking during a media appearance on Monday, the subject of comparisons between his former Blancos teammate, and the aforementioned Bellingham, was in turn put to none other than Raúl.

In quotes gathered by The Athletic, however, ex-hitman Raúl moved to argue against as much:

“I think the comparisons are wrong,” he began. “Zidane is a legend and Bellingham has the capabilities to make history. But for me, they’re different.”

However, Luka Modric has been heavily speculated to hit the exit door, as the 38-year-old is nearing the twilight of his career and has a contract that expires this summer.

Modric wants to continue playing for Madrid

However, the Croatian’s recent performances have turned the situation around. Despite his age, Modric continues to be an important asset for Los Blancos.

And, according to AS, the Croatian intends to wear the Real Madrid jersey for a further year. He is enthusiastic and firmly believes he can keep adding value to the team.

Despite playing few minutes at the beginning of the season, Modric has shown great promise since the turn of the year, and Ancelotti is starting to entrust him with more opportunities.

Moreover, the report argues that the club now appears to be ready to offer Modric a new deal, which he is inclined to accept.

There was talk of Modric settling down in a less competitive league and potentially joining his boyhood club Dinamo Zagreb before officially calling it quits. However, the veteran midfielder prefers to retire with Real Madrid.

Modric’s recent displays prove he is still invaluable when the club enters the business end of the season.

Against Manchester City in the UEFA Champions League quarter-finals, Modric impressed considerably in both legs.

While missing his penalty in the shootout at the Etihad Stadium, he retrieved balls, covered ground, and made successful passes.

And in the recent Clasico victory over Barcelona, Modric once again showed his worth as a creator.

As such, it appears highly probable that Modric will be relied upon next season as an option from the bench as his continuity is no longer a distant possibility.