Less than six months after Luka Modrić’s exit, Real Madrid are still feeling the absence of a midfielder who offered more than technical quality. For years, Modrić provided structure, leadership, and control in demanding moments, and the club’s search for a long-term replacement remains a talking point.
Now 40, the Croatian has continued playing at a high level and has quickly become a regular presence for AC Milan. In a recent interview with Italian outlet Corriere, Modrić looked back on his time in Madrid and the influence of several high-profile managers.
Modrić spoke warmly about Carlo Ancelotti, highlighting both the coach’s tactical calm and his ability to build trust with players. He described Ancelotti as a manager who communicates directly and makes players feel valued, adding that their relationship included conversations beyond football.
He also reflected on José Mourinho, calling him “special” and emphasizing that Mourinho played a decisive role in bringing him to Real Madrid. Modrić suggested that without Mourinho’s backing, the move to Spain may not have happened, and he expressed regret that their time together lasted only one season.
The most striking part of Modrić’s remarks centered on Mourinho’s dressing-room standards. Modrić portrayed him as uncompromising and direct, with an approach that applied equally to established stars and new arrivals. In describing Mourinho’s intensity, Modrić recalled an incident where even Cristiano Ronaldo was not spared criticism after failing to track back in a match.
The interview also touched on the long-running Cristiano Ronaldo vs Lionel Messi debate. Modrić avoided framing it as a rivalry, noting that both players defined an era. He added that his personal connection is stronger with Ronaldo because they played together, while describing Messi as exceptional based on his performances.
Modrić’s comments offer a window into elite dressing-room culture and how different leadership styles shape players over time—an issue that remains relevant as top clubs weigh discipline, communication, and player management in modern football.