This summer, Luka Modric was brought to AC Milan to win. However, he was also, naturally, going to inspire; an added bonus.
There are very few players in football right now who can inspire others, even some of the best players in the world. At least to the degree that Modric can. After all, the Croatian is a multiple-time Champions League winner, as well as winning everything there is to win in Spain.
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He also has a Ballon d’Or trophy sitting on his mantlepiece.
Modric and Leao
So, whilst the thoughts were that he could provide inspiration for the midfielders in the team, his role spreads further than that. In fact, Corriere della Sera write, via MilanPress, that he has taken the team under his wing, paying extra attention to Rafael Leao.
In many ways, the Croatian is similar to Zlatan Ibrahimovic, and the No.10 often watches Modric in action at Milanello in awe, almost. It was the same with Ibrahimovic, whom he admired massively. It is not a one-way street, though.
Modric’s words after the Fiorentina win said it all, he already believes that the Portuguese is one of the best in the world, but it is a case of maintaining that level. So, personally, he has set himself the challenge of turning him into a champion. It is not a relentless approach, though.
Instead, Luka watches and advises where he can, not just with words, but with actions.
The thought of Modric putting the ball through to Leao is quite exciting.
We saw a glimpse of that against Juve already. They havent gotten to play together alot so far, due to Leaos injury, so it should only get better as they get more minutes together.