Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti has defended veteran midfielder Luka Modric from criticisms following Los Blancos’ La Liga derby 3-1 loss against Atletico Madrid on Sunday.
Ancelotti watched as Atletico defeated Real Madrid at Wanda Metropolitano.
A brace from Alvaro Morata and a strike from Antoine Griezmann gave Diego Simeone’s side all three points against Real Madrid. Toni Kroos did score a goal for Ancelotti’s side against the host.
Modric was replaced at half-time after failing to make a significant impact in the first 45 minutes.
Reflecting on the Croatian’s display after the match, Ancelotti said (via Madrid Xtra on X):
“Modric’s substitution? He didn’t play well just like his teammates. Blaming him is crazy.”
The result against Atletico means Real Madrid are now in the third position on the La Liga table with 15 points from six games.
