Former Real Madrid defender Robert Jarni believes the timing of Luka Modric’s move to the Santiago Bernabeu is just right.
The Croatian [pictured[ spent the 1998-99 season with Los Blancos, making 27 La Liga appearances and scoring one goal, and feels his countryman has the maturity to make the transition from the Premier League without any problems.
“Modric is going to Spain at the ideal time as he is mature and knows what it is to play in big competitions,” wrote Jarni in his column in Orbyt.
“He has suffered in the last few weeks because of the Tottenham Hotspur Chairman, but has finally achieved his dream of playing for Real.”
Jarni, 43, says Modric’s versatility means he will be able to play anywhere in Madrid boss Jose Mourinho’s midfield.
“Where will he play? He’s versatile. He is a playmaker who has depth with his final pass, a quality that the quick Madrid forwards will love, although I must admit his best games with Croatia have been as a pivot.
“But he can play anywhere, even if he is not the size of other players. He is able to take the ball off the defence with authority, set the pace of the game and look for passes with intention.
“He is also imaginative, has a good touch with both feet and is strong despite him being small.
“His first weeks in Madrid will be hard, but his mobility and versatility will be an important addition to Mourinho’s team,” added Jarni.
