LUKA MODRIC

Tottenham is the club that first gave me my opportunity to play in one of the strongest leagues in the world.

I guess I'm just not that comfortable talking about myself.

After four seasons with Tottenham, where I had grown as much as possible, I needed new challenges for the sake of improving.

I have to keep working hard and improving every day.

Nobody is accustomed to play in front of an empty stadium.

I would say the best Croatian player in 2014 was Ivan Rakitic, leading Sevilla to Europa League glory and earning a big transfer to Barcelona.

I want to be able to help the coach and team as much as I can.

Mourinho asks me to play as I did with Tottenham, but at a higher level.

I always said that I would like to finish my career in Madrid if it's possible.

People in Real ask me about Mateo Kovacic all the time. He is a phenomenal talent and will play in some of the biggest clubs. Inter is a big club, no doubt, but Kovacic will play in even bigger.

I have great memories of Tottenham. I spent four great years there with a lot of emotions, with a lot of love from the club and the fans.

When I came to England, I was dreaming about winning titles.

There are so many great players who have played for Real Madrid.

I have met him a few times. What can I say - Maradona is one of the best players in football history.

My one regret is that I didn't win a trophy with Tottenham, despite us being a strong team who played good, attractive football.

I really enjoy my life in Spain.

The war made me stronger; it was a very hard time for me and my family. I don't want to drag that with me forever, but I don't want to forget about it, either.

Santiago Bernabeu is the best stadium I have ever played in. I enjoy every minute on its pitch.

Sometimes, when we play against weaker teams, everyone says, 'Oh, you won because you played weaker teams.'

It is very challenging to adapt to life at a big club like Madrid, but I'm not the kind of person to make excuses.

My father fought for me to play football. He never had to make me shinpads, but it was a lot of money to send to me to a soccer school. And to provide boots and things.

Everyone has a different view on football, but I didn't have a fear that I wouldn't be good enough in England.

I want to thank all the people at Tottenham. I had four great years there, and I enjoyed every moment. I want to thank everyone who made my life enjoyable in London.

I remember my first shin pads had the Brazilian Ronaldo on them, and I loved them.

The team is the most important thing.