Real Madrid's squad, one of the most envied in the world of soccer, has suffered a blow with Toni Kroos's absence. Although Real Madrid have a top-notch midfield with Modric, Valverde, Camavinga, Tchouaméni and Bellingham, Kroos's absence is still felt.
However, Croatian legend Modric seems to have his ideal replacement in mind and it's one of Joan Laporta's unfulfilled dreams for FC Barcelona.
Toni Kroos's Absence is a Headache for Madrid
Since his arrival at Real Madrid in 2014, Toni Kroos has been a key player in midfield. His vision and passing accuracy have made him one of the best midfielders of his generation.
However, after years of effort, he decided to retire from soccer, leaving a void that was difficult to fill.
Although Madrid has a talented midfield, Kroos's absence is felt at key moments. His ability to distribute the ball and link plays was unique, making it difficult for the team to adapt. Despite good management of this transition, his leadership and influence on the game are irreplaceable.
A Fearsome midfield
Despite Kroos's absence, Real Madrid's midfield remains one of the most potent in world soccer. Fede Valverde, Camavinga, Tchouaméni and Bellingham are a coach's dream and keep Madrid competitive in all tournaments.
Fede Valverde, with his ability to break through lines and his energy, has established himself as one of the best midfielders in LaLiga. According to the DataMB ranking, he is among the three best midfielders of the season, along with Tchouaméni, an expert in recovery and distribution.
Martín Zubimendi: the Future of Midfield
One of the names that has been heard the most in LaLiga is Martín Zubimendi's, the Real Sociedad midfielder. At 25 years old, he has shown great maturity and quality, controlling the game and providing defensive solidity.
It is not surprising that clubs such as FC Barcelona had him as a priority transfer, although negotiations didn't materialize.
Zubimendi has recently attracted the attention of Real Madrid as a possible replacement for Toni Kroos. His style is ideal: he wins the ball back, distributes it accurately and manages his timing intelligently.
Laporta's Frustrated Dream
FC Barcelona have also shown great interest in Martín Zubimendi, considering him as the ideal replacement for Sergio Busquets.
However, Real Sociedad's high financial demands and their determination to keep the player have frustrated Laporta's plans. Now, it seems that Real Madrid could move ahead and take one of the most desired midfielders in Spanish soccer.
With Kroos approaching the end of his career, signing Zubimendi would be a strategic move for Madrid, ensuring a generational replacement of quality in their midfield.