Jose Mourinho Sings Luka Modric Praises, Calls Him His ‘Pride’ As Croatian Maestro Nears Madrid Exit

• Jose Mourinho has waxed lyrical about veteran Real Madrid midfielder, Luka Modric
• The 'Special One' claims he had faith in Modric when no one believed he was worthy
• Meanwhile, the 2018 Ballon d'Or winner could be heading out of Madrid this summer

Jose Mourinho has effusively praised Real Madrid midfielder Luka Modric as the seasoned Croatian playmaker approaches the end of his contract with the Spanish giants.

The iconic Portuguese manager credited himself with securing one of the standout midfield talents of the modern era for Los Blancos while praising Modric.

It was the 'Special One' who brought the now 38-year-old Modric to Madrid in 2012 during his stint as the club's coach.

What Jose Mourinho said about Modric

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As he looks back on signing Modric 12 years ago and the remarkable achievements both the player and the club have attained since, Mourinho has predictably expressed his admiration, basking in the success of the Croatian maestro.

“Luka Modric? He is the beauty of football. He is my pride because I took him to Real Madrid when nobody believed that he was a player for Real Madrid,” Jose remarked, as quoted by MadridXtra.

Modric's early struggles and renaissance at Madrid

While Modric has since become a revered figure and legend at the Santiago Bernabeu, his early days were marked by challenges.

In fact, Madrid-based publication Marca once conducted a poll for the 'worst signing of the season,' with Modric topping the list, ahead of Barcelona's Alex Song, per Planet Football.

However, the 2018 World Cup winner persevered, and his subsequent success has solidified his place in Real Madrid's history.

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What's next for Modric? Will he stay in Madrid?

Real Madrid and Luka Modric are set to part ways this summer, with the club reportedly initiating the separation.

Following a season in which Modric was primarily used as a rotational player or impactful substitute, speculation arose that the Croatian midfielder might opt to terminate the relationship in pursuit of a more prominent role within another team.

However, according to reports from Relevo, corroborated by Football Espana, Real Madrid has all but decided not to extend Modric's contract this summer.

Mourinho considering Man United return

Sports Brief also reported that Jose Mourinho might be considering a sensational comeback to Manchester United, potentially stepping in to replace under-pressure manager Erik ten Hag.

Recent reports suggest that Mourinho is closely monitoring developments at Old Trafford and is eager to make a comeback.