Luka Modrić is practically a “kid,” according to Lamberto Boranga, the 82-year-old former professional goalkeeper who retired at 44 and is now preparing to play a match in the Umbrian Prima Categoria with Trevana. The Croatian champion, 40, recently scored for AC Milan. “Modrić is a grown boy, and on the pitch, you don’t see his age because you never lose class,” Boranga, a cardiologist and sports doctor from Perugia, told ANSA. “He has talent, and you never lose that,” he emphasized.
A former player for Perugia, Fiorentina, and Cesena, Boranga is also an accomplished track and field athlete and will compete in the European Master Championships in Madeira in October. “I train constantly. I do the long jump, triple jump, and pole vault for every discipline,” he explained.
Boranga cites Modrić as an “example of sporting longevity,” noting that the age at which one is considered old has risen. “At 50, you can be considered young in a different way. Ideas and mental dynamism only decrease for those who don’t exercise,” he added. Therefore, he felt “no surprise” seeing the Croatian star score for Milan.
He explained that “Goalkeepers, like Buffon, can play longer, while it’s different for a striker who relies on physicality.” Meanwhile, the doctor-goalkeeper is continuing his own training for a comeback. “It will happen at the end of the month in Trevi, and I am preparing my best. When I train, I feel a few little aches, but that’s fine,” he announced. “On the pitch at over 80? It can be done. Of course, only if you are in shape and trained,” Boranga concluded.