When a footballer-legend takes to the pitch, the fans actively support him even when he is not playing his best. This was the case with Toni Kroos, who has already finished his career. But in Europe, there are still quite a lot of interesting top footballers, who despite their age continue to perform at a high level.
Such players are under contract at top clubs and get playing time. It is not always a starting line-up player, but when they are on the pitch it is clear to the fans why they are still playing. And that earns the love and respect of the club’s fans. Representatives of xGscore.io have collected information about these players in one material.
Axel Witsel
The Belgian midfielder is already 35 years old. During his career, he managed to play more than 130 matches for the national team. For the last 2 years, he has been steadily playing for Atletico Madrid. If earlier he played more as a supporting midfielder, now he plays more often as a centre-back.
Undoubtedly, Witsel’s speed has become slower. But he still has:
- ability to read the game;
- unyielding in rebounding the ball;
- good positioning.
Thanks to these qualities, he continues to play in a top team. Of course, his football retirement may come soon. Perhaps, soon Axel will be in the United States or will finish his career. But for now, he continues to play in Spain, although he gets short contracts.
Ángel Di María
The Argentine forward and World Champion continues to be trusted at Benfica. At the same time, he plays quite actively and is considered one of the key players of the team. Even the best soccer prediction site was surprised by such an active Di María at the age of 36.
Of course, the Portuguese championship is not in the top 5 leagues. But it is definitely in the 6-7th place. Benfica is a regular participant in European club competitions. The team regularly fights for the championship and Di María continues to help develop young players and is the leader of the team locker room.
Benfica’s management appreciates his contribution to the team and has already extended his contract for a year. This has made the fans very happy as he is not just a symbol of past successes but a player who helps the team by scoring often for a 37-year-old player. He netted 17 goals last season for the Lisbon outfit and has already hit 13 this season.
Cristhian Stuani
The Uruguayan striker and long-time captain of Girona may never have been a top forward or played at a top club. Moreover, he has played in the Segunda, although his level has always allowed him to play in La Liga. But he has shown loyalty to Girona and for that, he has been loved by the fans at Montilivi.
When Stuani is on the pitch, the over 1.5 football predictions are mostly successful so far. And the striker is already 37 years old. Nevertheless, even at this age, he continues to successfully get 15-20 minutes on the pitch and he always finds 1-2 of his chances. And often 1 of them he realizes.
Of course, it is already difficult for Stuani to play a full match. Last season Dovbic played more often. Now it’s more Miijowski or Abel Ruiz on the field. But Christian continues to come on the pitch regularly and even score goals, he made his debut in the Champions League. And the fans are still happy to welcome every time he takes to the pitch.
Luka Modric
The Croatian captain, long-time Real player, and Ballon d’Or winner continue his performances. He has played over 500 matches for Real. During his appearances for Real, he has amassed a large list of titles. For the last few years, the club has been extending its contract for 1 season every year. But he regularly proves himself worthy of a new extension.
A few months ago it seemed that this was his last season at Real Madrid. But Modric again surprised everyone and continued to show incredible, clever, and aggravating football. So the question of a new extension seems more and more settled. Who knows, maybe Modric will play like this until his 40th birthday.
Conclusion
The said players continue to play at top clubs and are slowly ceasing to play major roles at their clubs. Nevertheless, they continue to influence the teams and do their best to convince the management of their usefulness. Fans love such fighters and clubs prolong their contracts with them. We will see how long each of them will continue to play at a high level, but for now, their willpower and skill can only be marvelled at.
