He made Ronaldo cry — Modric reveals when Mourinho berated 5x Ballon d'Or winner

Croatia international Luka Modric has named Jose Mourinho the most intense manager of his career, revealing that the Portuguese tactician once brought Cristiano Ronaldo to tears.

The 41-year-old joined Real Madrid in the summer of 2012 at Mourinho’s request. His first season was a struggle, as he was voted the worst signing of the season. It was also a difficult year for Real Madrid, as they failed to win any of the three main trophies they competed for; the squad broke down, which eventually led to Mourinho’s exit.

Now plying his trade in the Serie A with AC Milan after over a decade at Real Madrid, Modric sat down with Italian publication Corriere della Sera, where he was asked about the toughest managers he has experienced in his career.

Modric has had many seasoned managers in his career with different techniques and temperaments. However, he observed that Mourinho was the toughest, sharing anecdotes from their time together.

 “[He is] 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,” he said.

“I saw him (Mourinho) 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. Mourinho is very direct with the players, but he's honest.

“He treated Sergio Ramos and the new arrivals the same way: if he had to tell you something, he'd tell you. Max (Allegri, Modric’s current Milan manager) is like that too: he tells you to your face what's right and what's wrong. Honesty is fundamental.”