Modric: Chelsea move snub was a blessing

Luka Modric has reflected on his failed transfer to Chelsea in 2011, viewing it as a pivotal moment that ultimately benefited his career. The Croatian midfielder expressed a strong desire to join the London club from Tottenham Hotspur, but his efforts were thwarted by Spurs' chairman, Daniel Levy, who was adamant about not selling.

Modric acknowledged that his public desire to leave might have complicated matters, especially given the rivalry between the two London clubs. Despite the initial disappointment, he remained with Tottenham, delivering an outstanding season where the team finished fourth. This successful period at Spurs preceded his move to Real Madrid a year later.

Joining Real Madrid, Modric embarked on an illustrious 13-season tenure, amassing a remarkable 28 titles and earning the prestigious 2018 Ballon d'Or. He believes that if he had completed the transfer to Chelsea, his path to such unprecedented success at the Bernabéu would likely not have materialized.