Modric on Milan adventure and ‘phenomenal’ Allegri approach: “I was really surprised”

Luka Modric has shared his thoughts on joining Milan, the relationship with Allegri, his seemingly eternal love for the game and more in an interview with CBS Sports. 

Along with Christian Pulisic, you could definitely argue that Modric has been the most important player for Milan so far this season. He has got high ratings almost every game, at least in our player ratings pieces, and it’s not just because he’s a big star.

Speaking to CBS Sports, as published on their YouTube, Modric shared his thoughts on the decision to join Milan, his love for the game, the relationship with Allegri and more. He praised the manager a lot, among other things.

What is your greatest strength?

“It’s better to ask others about that, because for me to talk about my strengths is maybe a bit pretentious. However, I think it is my mentality.”

Why Serie A and why Milan?

“When I was a kid, I always followed the Italian league. At the time it was one of the best, if not the best, leagues in the world.

“My favourite team was Milan because Zvonimir Boban played there. He was my idol after captaining Croatia in the 1998 World Cup. This is the reason why is chose Italy and especially Milan.”

How do you view your role? What can you bring to the team?

“I came here to win. What I can give to the club and the players is my mentality, my work ethic. Every day you have to work hard, put in 100%, and if you do that in training, it’s easier to do it in the game as well. I’m here for that reason.”

What is the goal this season?

“We are getting better, there are many young players in the team. We need to go game by game, training by training, trying to grow as a team and getting better. Hopefully, we can bring Milan back to where it belongs because this is one of the biggest clubs in the world.

“I could see that when I joined, because of the organisation, environment and everything. Results-wise Milan are not what they used to be, but that’s why I think everyone in the squad need to move in the same direction, fighting for trophies.”

What potential does Pulisic have?

“Christian is a great guy first of all. As a football player, his potential is huge, but he’s already a great player. He demonstrated it for such a long time at Dortmund, then at Chelsea and now at Milan. He’s very skilful, quick, and he understands football well. It’s a joy to play with him.”

Have you been teaching him Croatian?

“Yeah, but I think he used to play with some Croatian players who taught him some words that aren’t for the camera. So far, we haven’t tried to speak much Croatian but maybe in the future.”

You have played under some great managers in your career. What is the difference between them and Allegri?

“To be honest, I don’t like to compare managers. What I can say about Allegri is that he’s a great coach, great personality, he’s a very funny guy but also straightforward with the players. He’s honest and tells you what he expects from you, what you need to do and what you are doing wrong.

“It doesn’t matter who it is, he has the same approach with all players. That I like a lot. He’s also a winner, he demonstrated it at Milan before and at Juve. It’s so great to have him as a manager.”

Do you like that direct approach from the managers?

“Yes I do, because in these days, if a manager is too honest then players get offended so easily. I prefer it though, and Allegri does it in a good way. He always puts a joke in the conversation that relaxes you. His approach is phenomenal, I was really surprised by it.”

The longevity of your career, what’s the secret Luka?

“Everyone keeps asking me this, but there’s no secret. I really like football, for me it’s everything and I dedicate myself to it. I live for football. I still feel the joy for the game, it’s easy, and even to go to the training sessions. This keeps me motivated.”

28 trophies in your career, is it a love for the game or other things?

“Just a love for the game. This keeps me motivated and when you win things, you get a feeling that you want to repeat. It’s unique.”

What’s the beauty routine, you still look very young…

“There is no secret, I cannot tell you one thing, there are so many things to put together. It’s the love for the game, you can’t be satisfied with what you did in the past. You always have to prove yourself.”

Modric will play from start in Milan’s big game against Juventus tomorrow and once again, he’s expected to play a key role. Another win would keep the Rossoneri at the top of the standings, so it’s an important one indeed.