‘Very beautiful and special’ – Luka Modric opens up on Real Madrid captaincy

Real Madrid veteran Luka Modric’s future was up in the air before the domestic season reached its conclusion.

However, putting an end to relentless speculation, the Merengues officially announced Modric’s contract extension until 2025, simultaneously naming him the first team captain following Nacho Fernandez’s departure.

Modric spoke about the immense privilege of continuing to don the royal white jersey and the new responsibilities he will bear as the team captain.

Modric is grateful for the opportunity

Acknowledging the immense weight of the captain’s armband, Modric said, “It’s a huge responsibility.

“When you see the leaders of Real Madrid over the years and being able to be captain of Real Madrid, it’s a very beautiful and special thing and I’m very happy to be able to represent the team as a captain.”

Luka Modric is poised to potentially become the Real Madrid player with the most trophies. Tied at 26 titles with Nacho Fernandez, Modric could claim the record with just one more title in the 2024/25 season.

Touching upon that exciting possibility, the Croatian remarked, “Having the possibility of being the player who has won the most titles at Real Madrid is incredible. There are many titles waiting for the team and there are a lot of hopes for me and the team.

“I am ready for what awaits me. I hope that we win a lot this season and I want to be the player with the most titles.”

Having cemented an unmatched legacy, Modric admitted he is surprised to see the trajectory of his journey, especially given his lengthy tenure. But training alongside younger players motivates him to constantly improve.

“I never imagined everything that happened to me, especially since I have been here for so many years, which is good, but training here, with so many young people who push you to work harder, makes you improve day by day. I can’t relax.

“I train outside Valdebebas as well, take care of myself and do everything necessary to be at this level at this age,” the 38-year-old affirmed.

On the dressing room dynamics

Highlighting the dressing room as a close-knit family, Modric said, “We are like a family, we are friends and there is a very good atmosphere.

“I am touched, but I wanted to continue at Real Madrid because I still feel good and I think I am able to continue performing at a high level. I hope we can all continue winning a lot of titles together this year.”

On having six Champions League titles to his name

Modric claimed that he is honoured to be on par with Paco Gento’s achievements, having won the Champions League six times.

“It’s unbelievable to draw with Paco Gento. Winning the Champions League is something unbelievable and I still always remember the 10th Cup, which was something special. After winning it once, you want it again and again, because you feel it and you see it.”

He added that there is a special motivation among players and within the club that has led to multiple Champions League victories over the years.

“What it means for the club and the fans. So, when we play this tournament, there is something special in the players and in the club that has made us win many Champions Leagues in these years,” he stated.

Finally, he concluded by saying, “I am very happy to continue at Real Madrid. I will give everything for this shirt like all these years.

“I hope I will have a lot of happiness this season and we will win many titles. Your support means a lot to us and we will do everything We do our best on the field to bring you a lot of joy.”

Source: Real Madrid