There is certainly something to keep an eye on when using Modric in a deeper role. Valverde, Tchouameni and Camavinga are all good in deep-lying midfield, but none of them are as smooth in getting the ball out wide as Kroos or Modric. Ancelotti could solve this problem by being a little more direct in general, but without Modric on the pitch, opponents will probably want to press a little harder, even if the alternatives are hardly weak under pressure.

In short, Kroos’ replacement is Modric, with Eduardo Camavinga, Fede Valverde and Aurelien Tchouameni vying for the remaining two spots.

But who will replace Kroos as a free-kick taker?

According to The Athletic, Rodrygo will be Real Madrid’s free-kick taker for the new season.

The Athletic reports that the Real Madrid coaching staff have increased Rodrygo’s free-kick training. With Kroos retiring, the coaching staff have decided to give Rodrygo the responsibility of taking free-kicks. When free-kick opportunities arise in matches, Real Madrid expect Rodrygo to step up.

Last season, Rodrygo played 51 games for Real Madrid, scoring 17 goals and providing 8 assists.

If The Athletic is correct, Rodrygo will start alongside Jude Bellingham and Vinicius, with Kylian Mbappe playing as a striker. That would leave Joselu, Endrick. Arda Guler and Brahim on the bench.