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Luka Modric has shed light on his decision to join AC Milan, as well as his first impressions and what he hopes to bring to the team.
In the end, the deal to bring Modric to Milan materialised very quickly. It accelerated from initial expressions of interest from the new sporting director Igli Tare to an agreement over personal terms, and everything was made official last month.
The Croatian took part in the FIFA Club World Cup as a final hurrah with Real Madrid, and then went on a post-tournament vacation after doing his medical and signing for the Rossoneri. Tomorrow – Tuesday 5 August – should be his first training session at Milanello, and he will begin to impart some of his wisdom.
Modric unveiled
First, though, it was time for Modric’s unveiling press conference at Casa Milan. He answered questions from the journalists present, and his words were relayed by MilanNews.
How did you spend your holidays? How did the team look on tour in your eyes?
“I had three weeks off. I rested, but I also trained to get in the best possible physical condition. I watched the games against Arsenal and Liverpool and saw many positives. I hope the team can continue to grow. I can’t wait to get to know the team and train with them.”
Is there always time to get excited even at your age?
“Yes, regardless of age, there’s always time to get emotional. I recently had an emotional farewell with Real Madrid, and you can get emotional at any age.
“I grew up watching Italian football, and Milan were my favorite team in Italy: my idol, Boban, was there and did very well there. I’ve always had a special affection for the Rossoneri colours.”
What is your aim at Milan?
“I said this because we all remember Milan as one of the best teams in the world. We can’t settle for a mediocre season or qualifying for the Champions League. As for my vision for Milan, we also need to be humble: we need to work hard to bring the team back to the highest levels.
“I’m very competitive; I want to bring this to the team. The minimum objective is qualifying for the Champions League, but Milan must fight to win trophies: that’s my goal, and it should be the same for everyone who works at Milan. But we need to stay humble and have a solid team.”
What can you bring to Milan? What do you expect from Serie A?
“My experience. I’ll work hard, I’ll give it my all to try to do everything I’ve done elsewhere. I have to do exactly what I’ve done at other clubs, trying to help in every way. I know there are a lot of expectations on me, but I’m ready for this challenge.
“I follow Serie A a lot because there are so many Croatian players playing. You can see it’s a competitive league and it’s getting back to its level. Tactically, the teams are very organised: this makes it different from LaLiga. I have to adapt to this way of playing here in Italy as soon as possible.”
Have you spoken to anyone – maybe Ibrahimovic or Boban – about Milan?
“I haven’t spoken to Boban lately, but since we have a great relationship, we talked a lot about Milan when we met in the past. I met Zlatan and he told me about Milan. Ancelotti spoke highly of Milan, everything was very positive. I had that impression regardless.
“Milan are a great club, very important, and with great fans. But when they talk to you like that about a club, you get an even better impression. The last time I came here, the organisation and welcome were impressive.”
A few years ago you beat Allegri in the Champions League final…
“It’s probably not a good memory for him, but I’ll try not to talk about it too much (laughs). I don’t want the coach to get angry with me. I can’t wait to meet him; I’ve spoken to him a bit.
“I’m very happy to be coached by Allegri; he’s one of the best in the world, a winner. I can’t wait to see how he sees me on the pitch with this team.”
Is this your last dance?
“I don’t know, it’s too early to say. My goal is clearly to play in the World Cup next year, but first we have to qualify. But I’m not looking too far ahead; the important thing is to live in the present and do things well.
“I want to start this new adventure, prepare myself as best I can to ensure I’m at the level this club demands. There will be time for the future; I have to stay focused on the present and give my all for Milan.”
Can you tell us about the moment of your decision? Tare’s trip to Croatia… how did this decision come about?
“It was a very easy decision when Tare called me. When he came to Croatia, it was very important. It showed how much Milan cared about me and how much they believed I could perform at a high level.
“It was the turning point in the negotiations: when someone comes along and wants to buy you, it’s important that they explain their project to you. Then I needed some time to talk to my family, but deep down I knew it would be the best choice.
“I didn’t expect it to happen so quickly, but it shows the faith they’ve shown in me: I hope I can repay it on the pitch.”
Where would you like to play on the field?
We’ve spoken a bit with the coach, and I think everyone knows where I feel most comfortable on the pitch: in the middle of the field, where I can dictate the tempo and make sure the team plays well.
“I still have to talk to the coach to understand where he wants me to play. From there, I have to give my all, play well, and help the team: it’s the role I’ve always had throughout my life. But I’ve also played in other positions.
“The team remains the priority, the individual is never important. This must be our mentality: there’s no one above the team. I’m here to do what the coach asks.”
What struck you about the group so far?
“I’ve seen several positive aspects, but these are just friendlies: it’s difficult to give opinions at this stage of the season. There are many champions in the squad, the coach will decide the formation.
“I saw an excellent team, I think there’s a great atmosphere on the pitch, and that’s also important when you want to build a strong group. I don’t want to talk about individuals, but there are many top players in the team.”
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