Luka Modrić has never shied away from expressing his thoughts on the footballing world, particularly regarding the unparalleled stature of Real Madrid. In a candid conversation with friend and former teammate Slaven Bilic, the Croatian maestro made a bold statement that resonates deeply within the football community: “After Real Madrid, wherever you go, it’s a step down.” This assertion carries significant weight coming from a player with a remarkable career that includes six Champions League titles and the prestigious Ballon d’Or.
Modrić’s comments are not just reflections of his personal experiences but also serve as a warning to players who leave the club, as he previously advised Alvaro Morata and James RodrĂguez in 2017. He emphasized that life after Madrid can feel like a descent into mediocrity. Now, as he embarks on a new chapter with AC Milan, Modrić revealed that his decision was influenced by the club’s rich history and footballing culture, which closely mirrors that of Real Madrid. Growing up in an environment steeped in Italian football, he finds Milan reminiscent of his early dreams.
Emotional Departure from Madrid
Despite his transition to Italy, Modrić’s heart remains tied to the Spanish capital. He expressed a sincere desire to retire at Real Madrid, underscoring that sometimes circumstances dictate otherwise. In an emotional recounting of his final days at the Santiago BernabĂ©u, he shared how overwhelming the support from fans and the club was—an experience he described as “etched forever” in his memory. He acknowledged that from the moment he joined Madrid, despite initial struggles to adapt, he felt an enduring love from both supporters and teammates.
A Close Call with Chelsea
In this revealing interview, Modrić also shed light on an intriguing episode from 2011 when he was on the brink of signing with Chelsea. He recalled how Tottenham chairman Daniel Levy had blocked that transfer but promised him one thing: “I will only let you go if it’s to Real Madrid.” That promise paved the way for what would become a transformative move for Modrić in 2012. However, he candidly admitted that negotiations were arduous and prolonged, leading him to consider skipping training—a rarity in his career—until the allure of Madrid became undeniable.
His arrival at Real Madrid marked the beginning of a legendary era—over thirteen years filled with triumphs including six Champions League titles and an individual accolade as one of the greatest midfielders in club history. Reflecting on his journey from a war-torn childhood to becoming a football icon, Modrić has faced numerous challenges. His rejection by Hajduk Split and struggles with physical fragility were hurdles he overcame through sheer determination and belief that football transcends mere physicality; it’s about intelligence, technique, and attitude.
As he steps into this new phase at AC Milan, the legacy of Luka Modrić at Real Madrid remains unchallenged. His words serve as a poignant reminder of what it means to wear the famous white jersey—a privilege few experience but many aspire to.
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