At 39 years and 47 days, Luka Modric made history last week by becoming the oldest player to take part in an official match for Real Madrid.

While most outfield players and even many goalkeepers have retired by this age, the eternally youthful Croatian continues to excel.

What’s the secret behind his impressive longevity? Relevo spoke with Modric’s personal physiotherapist, Vlatko Vucetic, for insights.

It’s worth noting that Luka’s regimen doesn’t involve any mythical potions or miracle cures.

Vucetic, who has worked with Modric since 2012 and has known him since 2010, recalls how their partnership began with a simple conversation.

“Luka approached me and asked if I could help him,” Vucetic shared.

“Our three primary goals are to maintain his fitness, prevent injuries, and extend his career. He initially aimed to play until 36, but clearly, he has surpassed that milestone.”

Together, they created a rigorous training routine that Modric follows almost daily, participating in about 350 sessions each year, either at the club’s facilities or at home. Every session kicks off with a challenging 45-minute warm-up.

His daily regimen includes resistance band exercises, strength training for arms and shoulders, various rotational movements, and a focused lower body program.

Vucetic emphasizes the importance of maintaining muscle mass, which can decline rapidly after the age of thirty.

“It requires extra effort to regain what you lost a year ago,” he explained. “You must be dedicated, and honestly, I believe the preventive measures—especially the resistance band work—are essential.”

However, none of this would be possible without Modric’s unwavering commitment. The midfield maestro rarely takes a break, fully convinced of the benefits of his training routine.

Vucetic highlights that Luka’s age is just a number, as he has a considerably lower metabolic age, reflecting his biological and physical condition.

“He has a metabolic age of under 30 thanks to years of dedication to prevention,” Vucetic explains. “In contrast, my metabolic age is 35, even though I’m chronologically 50.” Remarkably, even at 39, Luka’s metabolic age remains below 30.

Vučetic identifies several key factors that have contributed to Modrić’s success, but he is reluctant to pinpoint a single one: family, psychology, motor skills, hydration, hygiene, and, of course, self-discipline.