Modric Reveals Mourinho's Pivotal Role in Securing His Real Madrid Transfer

Jakarta – Luka Modric has disclosed the significant influence Jose Mourinho had on his transfer to Real Madrid in 2012, suggesting that the move might not have materialized had the Portuguese manager not been at the helm of the Spanish giants at the time.

Modric’s arrival at the Santiago Bernabéu from Tottenham Hotspur in the summer of 2012 was a subject of considerable discussion, given the €35 million (approximately Rp 677 billion at the time) price tag. The Croatian midfielder was already 27 years old, an age considered by some to be past the peak for such a substantial investment. Questions were raised about whether Modric could successfully integrate into the Real Madrid squad and justify the hefty fee.

However, Modric has now revealed that Mourinho, who was then managing Real Madrid, was the driving force behind his acquisition. "Mourinho was the person responsible for my transfer to Real Madrid," Modric stated in an interview with Tribuna. "If he had not been the coach of Madrid at that time, I would likely not have come there."

Modric further elaborated on the circumstances surrounding his transfer, indicating that Real Madrid had initially been considering other midfield options. "Real Madrid were initially interested in players like David Silva, Juan Mata, and Santi Cazorla," he explained. "However, Mourinho specifically wanted me, and no one else."

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Mourinho’s support for Modric extended beyond the transfer negotiations. He publicly defended the Croatian midfielder against early criticism and expressed confidence in his ability to become a key player for Real Madrid. "I ask all Madridistas to give Modric time and be patient with him," Mourinho said in an interview with Marca in 2012. "Modric is the right player for Madrid. One day, the fans will fall in love with his game."

Mourinho’s faith in Modric proved to be well-founded. Over the course of his Real Madrid career, Modric has established himself as one of the club’s most influential and decorated players. He has won a remarkable 18 major trophies with Real Madrid, including five Champions League titles, three La Liga titles, and four FIFA Club World Cups.

In addition to his team achievements, Modric has also received numerous individual accolades, including the Ballon d’Or in 2018, the UEFA Men’s Player of the Year Award, and the FIFA Men’s Player of the Year Award. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest midfielders of his generation.

As of the current season, Modric has made over 428 appearances for Real Madrid in all competitions. His contributions to the club’s success have cemented his status as a legend of the game, and his place in Real Madrid’s history is secure.

Reflecting on his relationship with Mourinho, Modric expressed his gratitude to the Portuguese manager for his role in bringing him to Real Madrid. "I am very grateful to Jose Mourinho," Modric said. "One of my regrets now is that I no longer have the opportunity to be coached by him again."

Luka Modric’s journey to Real Madrid began after an impressive spell at Tottenham Hotspur, where he showcased his exceptional vision, technical ability, and work rate. During his time in the Premier League, Modric established himself as one of the most creative and dynamic midfielders in the league. His performances attracted attention from several top clubs across Europe, including Real Madrid.

Real Madrid’s interest in Modric intensified following the departure of Mesut Özil to Arsenal in the summer of 2013. Mourinho saw Modric as the ideal replacement for Özil, believing that he possessed the qualities necessary to thrive in Real Madrid’s midfield.

The transfer negotiations between Real Madrid and Tottenham Hotspur were protracted and complex, with Tottenham chairman Daniel Levy known for his tough negotiating stance. However, Mourinho was determined to secure Modric’s signature, and he played a crucial role in persuading the Real Madrid board to meet Tottenham’s asking price.

Upon his arrival at Real Madrid, Modric faced initial challenges in adapting to the team’s playing style and the intense pressure of playing for one of the world’s biggest clubs. He was often deployed in a deeper midfield role than he was accustomed to, and he struggled to make an immediate impact.

However, Modric’s perseverance and determination eventually paid off. He gradually grew into the team, and his performances improved significantly over time. He formed a formidable midfield partnership with Xabi Alonso and Sami Khedira, and together they provided the foundation for Real Madrid’s success under Mourinho.

After Mourinho’s departure from Real Madrid in 2013, Modric continued to play a pivotal role in the team’s success under subsequent managers, including Carlo Ancelotti, Zinedine Zidane, and Santiago Solari. He adapted his game to suit different tactical systems and continued to deliver consistently high-level performances.

Modric’s longevity at Real Madrid is a testament to his professionalism, dedication, and exceptional physical condition. He has managed to maintain his fitness and performance levels despite his advancing age, and he remains a key player for the team.

In recent seasons, Modric has formed a close bond with fellow midfielders Toni Kroos and Casemiro. The trio have been instrumental in Real Madrid’s success, and they are widely regarded as one of the best midfield combinations in the history of the game.

Modric’s current contract with Real Madrid is set to expire at the end of the current season. However, both the player and the club have expressed their desire for him to extend his stay at the Bernabéu. Negotiations are reportedly ongoing, and it is expected that Modric will sign a new contract in the coming months.

Real Madrid’s upcoming fixtures include a crucial Champions League quarter-final tie against Manchester City, as well as several important La Liga matches against title rivals Barcelona and Atletico Madrid. Modric is expected to play a key role in these matches, and his performances will be crucial to Real Madrid’s chances of success.

Modric’s impact extends beyond the pitch. He is a role model for young players around the world, and he is widely respected for his humility, professionalism, and dedication to the game. His story is an inspiration to anyone who dreams of achieving success in football.

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Ahmad Zein Salamo: Ahmad Zein Salamo is a dedicated football journalist at Sports News Break, covering the global game with a sharp eye for detail and passion for storytelling. With years of experience following Europe’s top leagues and international tournaments, he delivers insightful analysis, match previews, and breaking news with journalistic integrity and depth.

His reporting combines tactical understanding with a human perspective, highlighting not only the drama on the pitch but also the stories that shape the sport beyond it. From Champions League nights to grassroots football, Ahmad’s work reflects a true love for the beautiful game and a commitment to bringing readers closer to the action.