Why did Luka Modric not join Chelsea in 2011?

Tottenham Hotspur's chairman, Daniel Levy, refused to sell Modric to Chelsea, despite the player's desire to move.

What happened after Luka Modric's failed Chelsea transfer?

Modric stayed at Tottenham for another season before joining Real Madrid, where he achieved immense success.

Did Luka Modric regret not joining Chelsea?

No, Modric views the failed transfer as a blessing, as it led him to a more decorated career at Real Madrid.

Home / Sports / Modric: Chelsea move snub was a blessing

Modric: Chelsea move snub was a blessing

4 Dec

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Summary

Modric's 2011 transfer to Chelsea from Tottenham failed.
He joined Real Madrid a year later, winning 28 titles.
Modric feels the failed Chelsea move led to a better career.

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.