Manager Carlo Ancelotti of Real Madrid called midfielder Luka Modric a “extraordinary professional” after the player marked becoming the club’s oldest player ever by setting up a goal in a 2-1 win at Celta Vigo.

In the first half at Balaidos on Saturday, a stunning goal from Kylian Mbappé put Madrid ahead. Willie Swedberg then tied the game for Celta.

Then Modric came off the bench and, at 39 years and 40 days, broke Ferenc Puskas’ record as Madrid’s oldest player to play in a professional match. He then set up Vinícius Júnior for the winning goal three minutes later.

Ancelotti told Real Madrid TV, “It’s an honor and a pleasure to coach and work with [Modric].” “With everything he’s been able to achieve, he’s a fantastic professional and a top man.”

With a win over Celta, Madrid is now tied with Barcelona for first place in La Liga, with two points each. Barcelona’s next game is on Sunday against Sevilla.

It also made their LaLiga winning streak 42 games, one less than the record set by Barcelona, whom Madrid will play in next weekend’s Clásico.

“[Modric] always makes a difference, whether he starts or comes off the bench,” Ancelotti said at the news conference. “He’s so good at many things that help us.”

“I don’t have much more to say; he’s still great.” He works very hard, stays cool, and has a lot of character. Real Madrid is lucky to have him as a player.

Mbappé and Vinicius both missed games for their countries during the international break because they weren’t feeling well, but they played very well against Celta.

As Ancelotti put it, “They scored two amazing goals.” “That’s something they have, and they used it well today.” During the break, they worked out hard and got in better shape.