Luka Modric speaks during unveiling as new AC Milan player: ‘I wanted to continue at a big club’ | OneFootball

Real Madrid legend Luka Modric left the club last month after the FIFA Club World Cup, and thus marked the end of an era at the Spanish capital.

His competitive spirit, however, kept him looking for new pastures in Europe and it was eventually AC Milan that caught his eye as an ideal option.

The Italy-based side may not be in the UEFA Champions League next season, but they have been working hard on a rebuild in recent years to try and get back to their best. Modric’s arrival, needless to say, brings some much-needed experience.

Modric speaks to the media

Speaking in a recent interview during his unveiling as a new AC Milan player, the Real Madrid legend spoke on his transfer and what he expected at the club as he opened a new chapter in his career.

“I always say that I love playing football and I enjoy it every day. That’s why I still play. I could have chosen the easier path, another league where the competition is not so demanding, but that’s not my character.”

“I always choose the harder path and that’s why I wanted to come to Milan. The expectations are high here, and the competitiveness is great. This is a big league and that’s why I’m here,” he added.

Modric spoke to Ancelotti before finalising AC Milan move. (Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images)

When asked if he spoke to Carlo Ancelotti before finalising his move to the Rossoneri, Modric said,

“Ancelotti? We spoke, and he told me all the best about Milan. He was here as a player and coach, and he told me everything about the club.”

“I have to adapt to the league as quickly as possible. I have played against Italian teams many times, and they are very organised and like to compete,” he added.

He elaborated on the role he will play at the club, saying,

“I have to see what the coach wants from me and I will try to do what I always do.”

The Croatian legend was then asked if AC Milan were on the same level as Real Madrid, to which he said,

“Milan at that level of Real Madrid? Certainly. When I first came here, you could immediately see how big a club this is. The organisation is at a top level – the people, the fans, the stadium.”

“Everything is top-notch. You can feel the greatness, just like with other big clubs. Seven titles in Europe, second only to Real Madrid, that says a lot,” he added.

Modric was then asked about his ambitions after leaving Real Madrid and why he opted to stay in Europe instead of moving to a cash-rich lower league.

“If I had to leave Real Madrid, I wanted to continue at a big club where expectations are high. It’s a shame that Milan do not play in Europe, because they are the most trophy-winning club after Real Madrid.”

“We have one game a week, maybe that’s not bad because we’ll have the whole week to prepare for the games,” he added.

Finally, the player reflected on his time at the Spanish capital and how he drew comparisons with his new club.

“I spent 13 years at the biggest club in the world and now I’m arriving at one that in previous years was what Real Madrid is today.”

“They lost that somewhere along the way. Milan should strive to get back to that level. It’s up to me to help as much as I can this year and enjoy it,” he added.

Source: 24sata