Luka Modric is 38 years old and I think his time is about run out at Real Madrid by this season. I don't think there will be another extension of contract with him. Don't get me wrong. He is still playing really decently despite his age. However as long as he continues to be a part of the starting eleven it becomes a hindrance for younger talents to find more chances.
Modric's quality is very good. There are no players who can replace it regularly. So as long as he's still fit enough then I think it's not a hindrance. The management and coach certainly understand the condition of the players, so at this time Modric also started more matches from the reserves. Anceloti has understood that his age will not be effective to play for 90 minutes continuously. Belingham's arrival has helped Anceloti, and he already has a replacement. Although I think Belingham needs friends if it is true later Kroos and Modric
In a league that is quite competitive and often plays big matches in various competitions, Luka Modric is increasingly tired and unable to play optimally for 90 minutes, which is why Ancelotti has to bench him this season. Moreover, at his current age, many football players are certain to retire, but not Luka Modric because he has a winning mentality which makes his determination even stronger even though he is no longer young. Bellingham arrived at the right time and also takes the position that Luka Modric will leave next season. Real Madrid's current squad is very even and there are no gaps at all with the arrival of their newest recruit last summer, it's just that the striker position is still considered unsatisfactory.