Amorim on Modrić: He's Special, but He Must Earn His Place
Milan's coach announced the Croatian captain will get playing time in the derby against Inter in Perth, where an enthusiastic Croatian diaspora welcomed Luka.
Milan's coach announced the Croatian captain will get playing time in the derby against Inter in Perth, where an enthusiastic Croatian diaspora welcomed Luka.
Long-time Vatreni captain Luka Modrić has returned to Milan's preseason preparations in Perth, Australia, where a large Croatian community welcomed him. Coach Ruben Amorim confirmed at a press conference that the 38-year-old midfielder will get playing time in tomorrow's derby against Inter.
At a fan event ahead of the match, Modrić answered questions, and his comment in English sparked a lively reaction. "It's nice to see so many Croats here," said Modrić, after which the hall echoed with chants of his name.
The excitement didn't stop there. Croatian fans sang him the well-known supporter song "Zovi, samo zovi," which Modrić acknowledged with "Bravo, bravo," triggering another wave of enthusiasm. Modrić's arrival in Perth marks the first stop in preparations for the new season, following his recent contract extension with the club until the summer of next year.
The Portuguese tactician at Milan's helm addressed the status of the Croatian midfielder and emphasized that all players will get a chance in the match starting on August 5 at 1 PM Croatian time. "And Modrić? He'll play tomorrow too. Everyone will get a certain amount of minutes in the derby. We don't have much time for training, and matches are close together, so we have to train through games. We'll try to distribute the workload," Amorim stated.
He specifically commented on Modrić's character and his role in the team. "Luka is extremely humble and doesn't like the attention he receives. He has immense experience, and I'll treat him like any other player. He'll have to fight for his place, but he is, of course, special. We invested a lot to keep him with us for at least one more season, and I'm very pleased with him," Amorim added.
Amorim expressed optimism ahead of the season, which officially kicks off for Milan on August 23 with an away match against Torino. "I'm very satisfied with the team I have. We're building our game idea. We have plans for the transfer window too. Sometimes they're feasible, sometimes not. But the most important thing, as I've said and I repeat: if we start the season with this squad, I'm confident we'll be competitive and can win every match," he said.
He particularly praised the efforts of Portuguese winger Rafael Leão. "I have a feeling that all players are working very well, both those who've been with us from day one and those who joined later. Rafa Leão is lucky to be at a club like Milan, and he should be happy. I sense he's satisfied and motivated," Amorim said, emphasizing that he doesn't notice any difference in his approach.
When asked who football fans in Australia should support, Amorim gave a passionate answer that resonated with supporters. "My answer is clear-Milan. I understand that Inter, looking at the last few years, has won more than us. But Milan is Milan. And that's why I'll always say Milan. Because Milan isn't just trophies; Milan represents something that can't be bought. You understand? For me, since childhood, it's always been Milan. So open YouTube, watch the clips, and it'll be clear why I'd always choose this club," Amorim concluded.
An important role in motivating the team is also the memory of club legend Franco Baresi, whose death shook the club. Amorim said the team will continue his legacy and that he is satisfied with the playing squad at his disposal.
