Xabi Alonso speaks out on Luka Modrić’s Real Madrid exit | OneFootball

Incoming Real Madrid head coach Xabi Alonso has provided his take on the imminent departure of Luka Modrić from the club.

Midfielder Modrić, of course, is fresh off taking to the pitch in Real Madrid’s colours at the Santiago Bernabéu for the very last time.

After it was announced that the decision had been made not to renew the Croatian’s expiring contract terms, Modrić featured from the off in Los Blancos’ final outing of the term, a 2-0 La Liga victory over Real Sociedad.

After his number flashed across the fourth official’s board late in proceedings in the Spanish capital, the 39-year-old, in turn, was afforded a rousing ovation, as well as a guard of honour.

Modrić will go on to play his part in this summer’s Club World Cup, but from there will be forced to seek out a new club.

Speaking to the media during his official presentation as the new man on the bench at the Bernabéu early this week, it therefore came as little surprise when the name of the midfield icon was put to the aforementioned Xabi Alonso.

Alonso and Modrić spent time together as teammates at Real Madrid, with the latter maintaining a special place in the heart of Real’s new boss.

Alonso, in turn, went on to admit that he simply ‘can’t be objective’ when discussing his former teammate, explaining:

“Luka Modrić? I can’t be objective with Luka. We were teammates, we had such a relationship, such a chemistry… his farewell… I was so proud. He is a legend. I’ve been with him before, I will try to enjoy him all the time I’ll have him at the Club World Cup.”

Conor Laird – GSFN