Modrić backs Mourinho to make Real Madrid feared again

Luka Modrić believes Real Madrid made the right decision by bringing José Mourinho back to the Santiago Bernabéu. Speaking to “AS” at Milanello, the former Madrid captain praised the Portuguese coach’s early work and recalled the decisive role Mourinho played in his own move from Tottenham.

Modrić says the difference can already be seen. In his view, Madrid look more dangerous and have begun to recover the presence that once made opponents uncomfortable before major matches.

“The first games already show a different Madrid, a Madrid that inspires fear. I like what I see,” the Croatian said.

MOURINHO REFUSED TO GIVE UP ON MODRIĆ

Modrić joined Real Madrid from Tottenham in 2012 after a long and difficult negotiation. The midfielder now says the deal might have collapsed without Mourinho’s determination.

According to Modrić, the coach delivered a clear message to the club: he wanted the Croatian or nobody else. With talks repeatedly stalling, that insistence kept Madrid at the negotiating table.

“If Mourinho had not pushed so hard, Madrid might have walked away from the negotiations,” Modrić explained.

The move was not initially treated as a spectacular superstar signing. It eventually became one of the most successful recruitment decisions in the club’s modern history. Mourinho recognised how well Modrić’s intelligence and technical quality could fit Madrid’s midfield. The player then spent the following years proving the judgement correct.

ONE SEASON LEFT A LASTING IMPRESSION

The pair only worked together for the 2012/13 campaign. Mourinho left at the end of that season, something Modrić still regards as a regret.

What stayed with him was the quality of Mourinho’s preparation. Modrić recalled entering matches with a clear understanding of what the opposition would do and how Madrid should respond. He also learned more about competing, fighting for every ball and meeting the demands of the club.

The Croatian believes those qualities make Mourinho particularly suitable for the current squad. He knows Real Madrid, understands its pressure and has the authority to establish clear standards.

“Mourinho is special to me because he fought to sign me. I would do anything for him,” Modrić said.

They do not speak regularly, but occasionally exchange messages. The affection and respect have survived despite spending only one year together.

MADRID’S RIVALS SHOULD BE THE ONES WATCHING

Modrić expects the partnership between Mourinho and Real Madrid to concern their opponents. He described the Portuguese as one of the best coaches in football history and believes he is back in the right place.

Barcelona were also mentioned during the interview, but Modrić rejected the idea that Madrid should base their work on what their biggest rival is doing. His position was simple: Real Madrid must concentrate on themselves and make everyone else pay attention to Madrid.

That message closely resembles Mourinho’s own words after returning. The coach said people at Valdebebas should not merely work at Real Madrid, but work for Real Madrid.

Modrić would like to follow that principle himself after retirement. He hopes to return to the club one day, although he does not want a ceremonial position based on his name. Any comeback would have to involve a defined role in which he could contribute and take responsibility.