Modric on Leao: “One of the best in the world”

There is Pavlovic who at a certain point in the second half engages in a rustic duel with Kean, near the corner flag: pushes, arms, clenched jaws, legs crossing. But of course, we need to protect the draw we just won. A few minutes later Modric chases Fazzini, who has escaped on the counterattack: he accompanies him to the wing, makes him widen and then passes in front of him, taking the ball away practically without touching him. When the danger ceases, Pavlovic applauds him openly. Two different ways of defending, strength versus timing. Luka is 172 centimeters tall and weighs 66 kilos, he can’t start playing gladiator, but he has learned to become one in his own way. With cunning, with the correct choice in exits, occupying the right spaces. Because in this victory which allows Milan to climb alone in front of everyone, as it hasn’t happened since October 2023, it’s not just Leao who takes the cover. But also His Majesty Luka. For a change.

LUXURY MODRIC

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The Rossoneri people enjoy when they see him draw football, but they are also getting to know him in his providential role as a breakwater. A sort of Rossoneri Mose who stands up when dangers arrive and generates serenity in those around him. These days in Milanello there is a need for friendly faces, who possibly convey security. When companions fall one after the other, like in a horror film, you need someone to hold your hand. Modric has actually always stood out in the defensive phase too. Of course, the luxurious plays remain above all in the eyes. The outside throws, the game changes, the verticalizations, the ability to see trajectories and corridors that others don’t see. But then there is the whole non-possession phase. Fazzini’s is just one example in a sea of ​​recoveries. The most important? Minute number 28, the game ended sadly without a shred of a shot on goal, but Nicolussi Caviglia’s shot, with a sure shot, certainly would have reached the goal. And it could have done a lot of harm. It didn’t happen because Modric timed the slide perfectly, blocking the shot. This time it was Maignan who applauded with conviction.

SMILE

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Luka’s first Italian championship is a tribute to playing time (there were those who spoke of Milan as a sort of early retirement) and concreteness. Throughout the first days of the tournament he was the best for interceptions and recovered balls, and the match against Viola reiterated the concept: the best of the match for tackles won (4) and duels (9). As well as positive launches (5), but here we even fall into banality. The Milan of the patches entrusted themselves to him and he once again took the team by the hand, on the very evening in which Leao did the same thing. At the end of the match they went in front of the microphones together, smiling at great occasions: “Rafa is fantastic, I couldn’t wait to play with him, unfortunately he got injured but this is the Rafa we need – said Modric -. He is a fantastic talent, for me he is one of the best in the world and he can improve. It depends on him. I hope he will help Milan grow in confidence, he will be very important for us. Tonight he explained why. Scudetto? We are growing, we have shown quality, character, it is a long road to go together.” Rafa receives the compliments and reciprocates: “When Luka arrived at Milanello he gave me a hug and said he wanted to help me. Playing with teammates like this helps me grow, I’m very happy, he will give me many assists… A dedication? I spent a month and a half injured, I dedicate it to my family and my teammates who helped me. This season we can do many important things.”