Luka Modric sat down with Real Madrid TV to share his thoughts and emotions after signing a new contract extension with the club. The interview covered a range of topics, from his reflections on his career to his hopes for the future. Here are the highlights of the conversation:
On the Captain’s Armband:
“Having the captain’s armband is a huge responsibility. When you see the captains that Madrid has had over the years and being able to be captain of Real Madrid is something very beautiful, special and I’m very happy to be able to represent Madrid as captain.”
On His Longevity at the Club:
“I never imagined everything that has happened to me, especially being here for so many years. Genetics, which is good, play a part, but training here, with many young players who push you to work harder, makes you improve every day. You can’t relax. And then training outside of Valdebebas too, taking care of myself and doing everything necessary to be at this level at this age.”
On Chasing Titles:
“Having the chance to be the player with the most titles at Real Madrid is something incredible. There are many titles ahead for the team and there is a lot of excitement, for me and for the team. I am ready for what awaits me. I hope we win a lot this season and I become the player with the most titles.”
On the Team Atmosphere:
“It’s like a family, we’re friends and there’s a great atmosphere… I wanted to stay at Real Madrid because I still feel good and I think I’m capable of continuing to perform at a high level. Hopefully we can all win many titles together this year.”
On Matching Paco Gento’s Record:
“It’s incredible to draw level with Paco Gento’s record. Winning a Champions League is incredible and I still always remember the Tenth, which was something special. Then, after winning it once, you want it again and again, because you feel it and you see what it means for the club and for the fans. That’s why, when we play in this competition there is something special in the players and in the club that has made us win so many Champions Leagues over these years.”
On the Upcoming Season:
“We have to go into next season little by little. Start well with the European Super Cup and then in the League. That’s what Madrid forces you to do, fight for all the titles. I hope to prepare well, be up to par and bring a lot of joy.”
On Kylian Mbappe Joining Real Madrid:
“I appreciate Mbappe’s words. They were very nice. I am happy that he has finally arrived at Real Madrid. He is one of the best and he has shown it over all these years. He is a player who has won the World Cup, against me unfortunately, but I am very happy that he is at my side. We are all going to help him in any way possible so that he adapts and shows his talent and can reach the maximum.”
On the Renovated Santiago Bernabéu Stadium:
“The stadium has become impressive. The Bernabéu has always been special. It is the most beautiful stadium in the world, even before, but the way it has become now is something impressive.”
On Florentino Perez’s Support:
“Florentino Perez’s words mean a lot. I only have words of thanks to the president for everything he has done for me since my arrival. He has helped me to continue at Real Madrid. He continues to believe in me and it means a lot to me. He is the best president in the world. What he has done with Real Madrid… he has taken it to an incredible dimension. I can only be grateful for what he has done for me and what he continues to do.”
On Continuing with Real Madrid:
“I’m very happy to continue at Real Madrid. I’m going to give everything for this shirt like I have all these years. I hope to have lots of joy this season and we’re going to win lots of titles. Your support means a lot to us and we’re going to give everything on the pitch to bring you lots of joy. Hala Madrid!”