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Luka Modric has admitted that staying at Real Madrid was his ‘wish’, but once AC Milan came up as an option he had to say yes.
Modric’s time at Real Madrid came to an end over the summer, with the midfielder having spent over a decade in the Spanish capital, winning 28 trophies with them which makes him the most decorated player in the club’s history.
The Croatian’s major titles include six Champions Leagues, four La Ligas, five Club World Cups, five UEFA Super Cups, two Copa del Rey trophies and five Spanish Super Cups.
His contract ran out in June, and he decided to try a new experience in Italy with Milan, a team that he grew up supporting. He has already become a key part of the team, bringing his mentality and experience to a relatively young squad.
Modric: Milan an ‘easy choice’
Modric spoke to (Ne)uspjeh prvaka to give some insight on leaving the Santiago Bernabeu and why he decided that Milan was the right next step after.
You left Real Madrid in the summer…
“Staying at Real Madrid was really my big wish, it wasn’t just platitudes or flattery to the fans. Sometimes, some wishes don’t come true.
“Even though my wish to retire in Madrid didn’t come true, I achieved some things I never thought I would. I don’t regret anything. I never expected this in my wildest dreams.”
Did you feel love from the fans?
“The love of the fans, the club, and all the people connected to the club remains forever. I have no words to thank them for that treatment. It was like that from day one.
“Even though I had difficulties at the beginning, I felt the love and affection of the fans. They felt that I was the one. That gave me the motivation to give back to them in the best way.”
You chose Milan…
“I always said that after Real Madrid, everything is a step down; everyone can confirm that. But I think I’ve joined a club that is very close to Real Madrid in terms of reputation and history. It was an ideal situation for me.
“When the Milan option appeared, I knew that was it. I stayed at a high level. The Italian league is one of the most competitive in Europe; it is not easy to play. But it was an easy choice for me. Especially because of the approach of the people and the club.”
What was it like leaving Real Madrid?
“Leaving Real Madrid wasn’t easy. I spent half my career there. That was one of the best periods of my life. I arrived quite late, at 27, but I was ready for that leap. Four years in England helped me a lot.
“Everything after that seems unreal to me, what I achieved. If someone had said to me, ‘Write what you would be happy with at Real Madrid’, I would have been afraid to write everything I achieved later.
“Trophies and victories are aside, but staying at a club like that for 13 years… From 27 to almost 40, that’s something incredible. We know what Madrid is like, a club that doesn’t tolerate mediocrity.”
Not many players have the longevity youhave had…
“Staying at a club like that for so many years is the most incredible thing. When I arrived, I thought it would be great if I stayed for five or six years. I thought careers lasted until 33–34. Not only have I surpassed that, I’m still at that level.:
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