Croatian Legend Praises “Special” Mourinho in Wide-Ranging Corriere della Sera Interview.

Modric Mourinho Ronaldo cry Real Madrid

AC Milan midfielder Luka Modric has shared a striking anecdote from his time at Real Madrid, revealing how Jose Mourinho once brought Cristiano Ronaldo to tears in the locker room.

In a candid interview with Italian newspaper Corriere della Sera published on December 31, 2025, the 40-year-old Croatian described Mourinho as the “toughest” manager he worked under: “I saw him make Cristiano Ronaldo cry in the locker room, a man who gives his all on the pitch, because for once he didn’t chase the opposing full-back.”

Modric, who joined Madrid in 2012 (Mourinho’s final season there), praised the Portuguese’s directness and honesty: “Mourinho is very direct with the players, but he’s honest. He treated Sergio Ramos and the new arrival the same way: if he had to tell you something, he’d tell you… Special. As a coach and as a person. He was the one who wanted me at Real Madrid. Without Mourinho, I would never have arrived. I’m sorry I only had him for one season.”

The incident highlights Mourinho’s demanding standards, even with superstars like Ronaldo – echoing past reports of tensions during their three years together (2010-2013).

Modric also hailed Carlo Ancelotti as his No. 1 coach and compared Mourinho’s style to current Milan boss Massimiliano Allegri. The interview covers Modric’s career reflections, childhood, and life at Milan.