Luka Modric promised to do everything he could to help Kylian Mbappe get used to Real Madrid. He also said that becoming captain of the team is “something very beautiful.”

The Croatian veteran put an end to rumors about his future by signing a new one-year deal on Wednesday. This gives the 15-time Champions League winners security after Toni Kroos’s surprise retirement.

Modric not only signed new terms to stay in the Spanish city for a 13th year, but he was also named the club’s new captain after Nacho Fernandez left.

The 38-year-old told Real Madrid’s club channels about the honor: “It is a huge responsibility.” In terms of the captains that Madrid has had over the years, being captain of Real Madrid is a beautiful and unique honor. I am thrilled to be able to serve Madrid as captain.

“The locker room feels like a family; everyone is friendly, and it’s a great place to be.” Even though this makes a difference, I still wanted to stay at Real Madrid because I feel good and believe I can keep performing at a high level. We hope to win a lot of titles together this year.

Modric also saved some special words of support for Mbappe, his new partner, who he has played against before both at club and international levels. They famously played each other in the 2018 World Cup final, which France won 4–2. Mbappe led France to victory.

During Modric’s introduction as Madrid’s newest player, Mbappe gave him praise. When asked about the signing, Modric’s captain replied, “I appreciate his words.” They were really nice. “I’m glad he’s finally here at Real Madrid,” he said.

“He has shown over the years that he is one of the best. But he is a player who has won the World Cup, sadly against me. I’m glad he is on my team. We will all do everything we can to help him fit in, show off his skills, and reach his full potential.

If Madrid wins again in 2024–25, Modric could become the club’s most decorated player ever in terms of trophies won. He said this about the possibility: “Having the chance to be the player with the most titles at Real Madrid is something incredible.”

There are a lot of titles ahead for the team, and both I and the team are very excited. I’m ready for what’s coming next. This season, I hope we win a lot of games and I become the guy with the most titles.