Real Madrid and Croatia legend Luka Modric has admitted he was left heartbroken when his close friend and international teammate Mateo Kovacic departed the Spanish giants for Chelsea in a multi-million pound transfer.
A Special Bond Broken by Transfer Business
Speaking candidly on the (Ne)uspjeh prvaka YouTube channel, the now AC Milan midfielder revealed the personal toll of Kovacic's career move. Modric, 40, enjoyed a trophy-laden 13-year spell at the Bernabeu, making nearly 600 appearances and winning four La Liga titles and six Champions Leagues.
His success in Madrid was shared for a period with fellow Croatian Kovacic, who was at the club from 2015 to 2019. "It was hard for me when he left because Mateo is someone truly special to me," Modric confessed. He detailed a relationship that began when Kovacic joined the national team and deepened during their time together in Spain.
The Path to Stamford Bridge and Beyond
Kovacic initially joined Chelsea on loan for the 2018-19 season, making an immediate impact with 51 appearances, helping the Blues win the Europa League and reach the Carabao Cup final. His performances convinced Chelsea to make the move permanent for a reported £40 million.
Modric respected his teammate's desire for more regular playing time, even though he believed Kovacic was already one of Real's best players. "He wanted to be the protagonist, to be on the pitch constantly, the way Toni, Casemiro and I were," Modric stated.
Kovacic's Chelsea career was a success, yielding over 200 appearances and a fourth Champions League winner's medal to add to the three he won in Madrid. His form later attracted Manchester City, who signed him for £25 million two years ago.
An Enduring Friendship Beyond the Pitch
Despite the professional separation, Modric emphasised that their bond only grew stronger. "With him, it became even stronger. Even stronger, actually," he said. "So it’s not just a friendship, but also a bond through family ties."
Modric himself ended his own legendary chapter at Real Madrid last summer, signing a one-year contract with AC Milan. The veteran has since made 18 appearances for the Italian club, who are currently second in Serie A.
His reflections offer a rare glimpse into the personal sacrifices and emotional costs behind high-profile football transfers, where friendship and professional ambition often collide.
