Modric reveals the most strict manager he worked with at Real Madrid: ‘Made Cristiano Ronaldo cry’ | OneFootball

Less than six months after his departure from the club, Real Madrid are already looking for the ‘new Luka Modric’.

The Croatian star, after all, provided far more to the team’s midfield than his mere contributions on the ball. He was a leader in the middle, one who took responsibility and controlled the games when the times were testing.

His departure may indeed have been beneficial in the larger picture, but Real Madrid are struggling without him. Modric, meanwhile, has established himself as a regular for AC Milan at 40 years of age.

Modric reflects on Real Madrid stint

In a recent interview with Corriere, the Real Madrid legend spoke about some of the great managers he worked with during his time at the club and the impressions they left on him.

Modric began by speaking about Carlo Ancelotti and praised the Italian tactician for his tactical excellence and the personal touch he added.

“Carlo is number one. It’s hard to find words. For his way of being, not just for his qualities on the bench. We talked many times about Milan and AC Milan when we were in Madrid. This place was unique for him too.”

“I remember when I met him. I was alone in the city. He called me and said, ‘Come on, come to dinner with me.’ We talked for hours, about everything. Football, family, life. Usually, coaches don’t give their players confidence. He does,” he added.

Modric then spoke about the ‘Special One’ – Jose Mourinho – and his style of management.

“Mourinho? Special. As a coach and as a person. He was the one who wanted me at Real Madrid. Without Mourinho, I would never have arrived. I’m sorry I only had him for one season,” he said.

The toughest manager Modric worked with at Real Madrid. (Photo by YAGIZ GURTUG/Middle East Images/AFP via Getty Images)

The player then shockingly revealed how harsh and unforgiving Mourinho was in the dressing room with no sense of favouritism.

“Mourinho was the toughest. I saw him make Cristiano Ronaldo cry in the locker room, a man who gives his all on the pitch, because for once he didn’t chase the opposing full-back.”

“Mourinho is very direct with the players, but he’s honest. He treated Sergio Ramos and the newcomer the same way: if he had to tell you something, he’d tell you,” he added.

Finally, the player was asked his verdict on the Lionel Messi vs Cristiano Ronaldo debate, and he provided a very mature response.

“It’s a question I don’t like. They marked an era. I am more attached to Cristiano because I played with him, he was my partner at Madrid, and I assure you that he is not only a great footballer; he is an incredible person.”

“People don’t know it, but he has a huge heart, always ready to help others. And he’s a simple, normal man,” he added.

When prompted to speak about Messi, Modric said: “As a man, I don’t know him, but I do not doubt that he is also extraordinary. As a player, magnificent.”