Modric discusses motivation, love for the game and sacrifices: “I truly love football”

Calling Luka Modric one of the revelations of the season so far feels wrong. However, few probably expected him to be as instrumental for AC Milan. 

There have been several players to impress so far, but it would be tough to suggest that Modric is not among the top performers. The Croatian has continued to prove his quality, and even after just turning 40, there are no signs of him slowing down.

In fact, the midfielder has maintained a level of excellence that many aspire to have in their prime, let alone nearly 10 years after that period.

Modric Motivation

Tonight, he will face another veteran star, Kevin De Bruyne, in what has been called a battle of the ‘Maestri’, and imaginably, if either stands out, it will be their team that wins the game. Milan, of course, will then hope that Modric provides.

Speaking away from tonight’s game, the midfielder discussed the fact that he is still playing at 40 to CBS Sports Golazo, and MilanPress have relayed his words.

“How do I stay motivated? It’s just the love of football. I truly love football. Ever since I was born, I’ve seen photos of myself as a child and with a ball. I love football so much that’s why I stay motivated. When you win, it’s a unique feeling, and you want it to happen again.

“That’s what keeps me motivated, I still want to win.

Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images

“The secret? I can’t say one thing specifically. There are many things that need to come together, but the most important is the love for the game and continuing to sacrifice yourself.

“You can’t be satisfied with what you’ve already done, looking back and saying, ‘I did this, I did that.’ In football, you always have to prove yourself, regardless of how great you are and how much you’ve already achieved.

“You have to keep proving yourself, and that’s what I think about. That’s probably why I’m still at this level.”