Modric ‘as important as Ronaldo’

Predrag Mijatovic has said Luka Modric has become as important to Real Madrid as Cristiano Ronaldo.

The former Madrid forward and sporting director said that Modric’s cool head in the middle of the pitch means he is essential to Carlo Ancelotti’s side.

“Modric collects all the threads in a great team,” Marca quotes Mijatovic as saying.

“He’s the head of midfield in a complicated environment. Every day in Madrid pressure is coming at you from all sides.”

Elaborating on the kind of pressure faced when a Madrid employee, Mijatovic described his experiences.

“There is demand for results and trophies.

“And fans have the highest aesthetic criteria. The media pressure is terrible too.”

Mijatovic feels that it is Modric’s ability to handle life in Madrid that has put him on par with Ronaldo.

“Modric not only withstands the pressure but has grown among it to be Madrid’s best player, with Ronaldo.”

Mijatovic also welcomed the presence of Atletico Madrid in this year’s title race, believing that a third party has livened things up.

“The domination of Real and Barcelona was getting a little boring,” the 45-year-old said.

“As a fan of Madrid I’m clear that I want the club to win the League.

“But Barcelona has a brilliant team and have been at a high level for years.

“Hopefully though Madrid win the title.”

Tags Cristiano Ronaldo Luka Modric Mijatovic
La Liga - Club News