At 39, Luka Modrić has embarked on a new adventure with AC Milan, marking what seems to be his final challenge after a remarkable 13-year tenure at Real Madrid. The Croatian maestro recently opened up in an extensive interview with Corriere della Sera, reflecting on the high-pressure years under José Mourinho at the Santiago Bernabéu. Modrić recounted a surreal moment when Cristiano Ronaldo, then the world’s best player, was left in tears following a heated confrontation with the Portuguese coach. Known for his fiery demeanor, Mourinho never held back in his demands for discipline, even from superstars like Ronaldo.
“Mourinho was the toughest coach I’ve ever had. I saw him make Cristiano cry in the locker room,” Modrić revealed. “Cristiano is someone who gives everything on the pitch, but there was a time when he didn’t track back to defend. That drove Mourinho crazy.” The Croatian midfielder emphasized that despite Mourinho’s harshness, he appreciated the coach’s honesty and direct approach.
Mourinho’s Psychological Mastery
JosĂ© Mourinho has long been recognized not just for his tactical acumen but also for his psychological prowess in managing players. Currently at Benfica, he understood how to push the buttons of even the strongest personalities in the dressing room. Sergio Ramos, another Real Madrid legend, often felt the weight of Mourinho’s relentless pressure during that era. “Mourinho is special as a coach and as a person,” Modrić stated, expressing deep respect for the man who played a pivotal role in bringing him to Madrid in 2012—a transfer that transformed his career.
A Legacy Among Giants
Having won the Ballon d’Or in 2018, Modrić sits comfortably among football’s elite alongside Ronaldo and Lionel Messi. When asked about comparing these two legends, he admitted it’s challenging but leaned slightly towards Ronaldo. “They defined an era. I feel closer to Cristiano because I played alongside him. He’s not just a fantastic footballer; he’s an incredible person with a big heart who always helps others,” he noted while also acknowledging Messi’s extraordinary talent.
As Modrić embarks on this new chapter in Milan, he humorously reflected on what could have been: “In another life, I might have been a waiter.” However, reality is far more glamorous as he gears up for one last high-level stint before potentially bidding farewell to international football at next summer’s World Cup. With emotions likely to run high during his international send-off, fans can expect tears—this time from heartfelt nostalgia rather than frustration.
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