Struggles to Maintain High Standards
Luka Modric has acknowledged the difficulties he faces in trying to replicate the exceptional standards he once set during his lengthy tenure with Real Madrid.
A Decade Plus with the Bernabéu Giants
During an interview with Slaven Bilic on Arena Sport, Modric shared, “It was a challenge for me, having spent 13 years at the same club. It has been one of the most rewarding phases of my life. I joined later in my career, but I believe it was at the right moment after four seasons in England. I felt prepared.”
He went on to reflect on his time at the club:
The experiences I’ve had feel almost surreal. If someone had asked me to outline my aspirations when I joined, I would have hesitated to envision what I eventually accomplished. Real Madrid is a club that sets high standards; they don’t accept mediocrity, and sustaining that level over the years has been nothing short of remarkable.
Surpassing Expectations
Modric had initially thought that staying at the club for five or six years would be a considerable achievement. He recalls how reaching the age of 35 in the realm of football seemed daunting, yet he managed to realize that milestone.
Acknowledging New Beginnings
While Modric concedes that moving to AC Milan feels like a downgrade, he insists that the club is the closest match to Real Madrid in terms of reputation and tradition.
He stated:
There’s no denying that anything post-Real Madrid feels like a step back, as all players understand. However, I believe I’ve joined a club that closely mirrors Real Madrid in terms of its legacy and standing.
Modric expressed his gratitude for this transition:
It truly is the best scenario that could have unfolded for me, especially since I have a deep affection for Milan from a young age.