Real Madrid midfielder Luka Modric has paid tribute to coach Carlo Ancelotti ahead of their Champions League semifinal against Manchester City.

When asked what he admires most about Real Madrid head coach Carlo Ancelotti, Modric focused on his general attitude.

“To choose just one is difficult, but I would say the way he conducts himself. He has come back in a very natural way; he has put a lot of faith in the team and that has meant a lot to us,” Modric explained.

“For me he is one of the greatest coaches in the history of the sport and we were all happy when he came back. We had a great time with him in his first period and we won big trophies. Now we want to win big things with him again.”

Casemiro missed the first leg with a knock, but he is expected to start against City on Wednesday after featuring against Espanyol last weekend.

“Without a doubt his return means a lot to us, he is a very important part of our game,” Modric noted.

“I’m sure he’s going to help us tomorrow to correct the mistakes we made; he’s always there to help. That’s why we’re very happy to see him back.”

When asked whether Real Madrid need luck to get to the Champions League final, Modric was clear.

“We don’t say anything to people who think like that, let them carry on like that. To be here and win I don’t know how many Champions League trophies, you can’t just rely on luck. It’s a bit unfair,” he stated.

“It makes us laugh a bit, although everyone can say what they want. We are focused on what we do and we don’t care what people say from outside.

“To reach these heights year after year, beating big rivals and winning trophies, you have to have more than luck: character, personality, faith… This is what makes us win.”

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