He answers with a question first, inviting a debate about what it means to play well. For him, true excellence in football means performing at a high level with and without the ball. It isn’t simply about defending well. A player can be considered effective when they are in command of the ball, and equally so when they know what to do even without it. Football blends offense and defense; there are many ways to defend, from a compact block to aggressive pressure at different heights. This is how he understands the game, and he is steadfast that only a rule change could alter that view. He points to Atletico Madrid’s disciplined defensive effort against Manchester City in the first leg of their tie as a demonstration of that balance, a case he cites to illustrate his philosophy.
From his perspective, coaching any team remains a challenging pursuit. Every squad carries its own set of requirements: chasing championships, ensuring consistent performance, and avoiding relegation—these are the realities. Training is demanding, yet it is a profession that he and his staff deeply cherish. The Real Madrid head coach emphasizes a focus on elements within the team’s control. He speaks of a clear mission: a strong commitment to competing for the league title and a belief in the team’s ability to win. While he acknowledges the freedom of others to voice opinions, he remains convinced that the league is not finished and that victories must continue to come for Sevilla and the club alike. [citation: post-match press conference, club communications and contemporary sports analysis]
Modric, a legend
The Real Madrid coach publicly praises Militao for his astonishing level and quality, while noting room for improvement in concentration. He downplays any personal conflict with Kroos from the recent Chelsea match, saying it did not trouble him and that they discussed the matter after the game. He also highlights Vinicius Tobias, a young right-back full of energy who is learning rapidly. In addition, he draws a comparison between Modric and Maldini, describing Modric as a football legend who recently helped guide another team to victory in the Champions League at the age of 40. [citation: team interviews, match reports, and official club communications]
When asked to compare Modric with others, he chooses Maldini as the benchmark for quality and seriousness. He explains that Modric’s understanding of the game and his professional conduct place him among the sport’s greats. The coach believes Modric will likely finish his career with Real Madrid, though the exact timing remains a matter of opinion. There are no complications regarding renewal for either the club or the player, as both sides see a straightforward path forward. He notes that Modric takes excellent care of himself, a factor that has contributed to the absence of serious injuries throughout his career and that significantly supports his longevity at the highest level. [citation: official club statements and veteran player profiles]