Modric talks Bale and Maradona ahead of Champions League tie
Diego Maradona will be guest of honour at the Bernabéu as Real Madrid face Napoli in the Champions League, and Luka Modric is counting his blessings that the legend isn't playing anymore. Champions League Final 2017
Luka Modric faced the press along with Zinedine Zidane on Tuesday afternoon ahead of Real Madrid’s Champions League 2nd Round 1st leg match against Napoli at the Bernabéu on Wednesday evening.
On reaching 200 games for Madrid: “It’s a good figure. I hope to play many more games. I’ve grown as a player and as a person [here]. Being surrounded by great coaches and players every day makes you grow. I’m happy with my performances.”
On Napoli: “Napoli are a good team, in the centre of the pitch and up front too. It’ll be a complicated battle.”
"We miss Bale, we want him back now"
On the cup elimination by Celta: “It’s a different competition. We need to forget about Celta and look forward. The Napoli game will be hard, they’re on a good run but we’re playing at home. I hope we don’t concede.”
On Maradona, who’ll be at the Napoli game: “He was one the best players in the history of football. We’re very happy he’s here. Thank God he’s not playing! He’s a good person.”
Bale’s return: “It’s always difficult when you’re not playing due to injury. Bale is strong and focused on getting back as soon as possible. He’s training well and we miss him, we want him back now.
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