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Ivan Rakitic, who retired at the end of last season, has shared his thoughts on Luka Modric’s first months at Milan and how he’s able to make a difference at the age of 40.
Although they never shared the same club shirt, Rakitic and Modric have spent a lot of time together through the national team, both playing key roles in Croatia’s midfield. As such, they know each other well and have a close relationship off the pitch.
Interviewed by Gazzetta dello Sport, Rakitic shared his thoughts on Modric’s move to Milan and how the midfielder has been able to make such a difference so quickly. Judging by the former Sevilla man’s words, there is no one else like Modric.
After 13 years with Croatia, can we ask: What is Luka Modric like in the dressing room?
“He’s not a man who talks a lot, but when he does, you have to be very careful. He speaks in a serious, concrete manner, never shouting but giving clear instructions. He likes jokes, but when things get serious, he’s very focused and pays attention to every detail.”
Do you talk often? What does he say about Milan?
“We spoke yesterday. Luka is very happy, he invited me to Milan, he says football is very different from Spain, but he’s having a great time. He’s very happy with his teammates and life in Italy: his family is enjoying this new chapter, and for us footballers, family is always very important.
“Luka has Igli Tare to thank for all this: he was the one who brought him to Milan.”
How does it feel to see him at 40 in a Rossoneri shirt?
“I thought he would end his career at Real Madrid, but as a friend and brother, seeing him at Milan brings me immense joy. I’ll celebrate all his victories, both personal and team, as if they were my own.”
How is it possible that Modric, at 40, is Milan’s most important player?
“You have to understand that Luka is totally different from others in his way of living and working. Football today is younger than in the past, but it gives those who work very well the opportunity to prolong their careers. Luka enjoys his profession; he lives for football and does everything well.”
We’re talking about bodywork, right? What does he do?
“He has his own team, a physical trainer he works with every day. Above all, he has a footballing intelligence that puts him ahead of everyone else, and I say this with great respect for others: there are stronger, faster players, but Luka’s intelligence is simply superior. Modric understands the game and works every day physically; in fact, he’s better than ever now.”
And how does he do it?
“What matters, as you’ve probably already understood, is taking care of the details. The key is to be happy: only if you’re happy can you play well.”
Will Modric win the Scudetto straight away with Milan?
“Yes, it’s possible, but it will be decided in March. I like teams that grow throughout the year: you don’t have to be at the top in November or February, but in the spring. If the players do that, with a coach like Allegri who has won everything, they can win.”
In their pursuit of the Scudetto, or at least a top-four finish, a tough clash awaits the Rossoneri tomorrow as they will be up against Juventus. The Bianconeri have also started the season well, but they are coming off four draws in a row.
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