'Real Madrid come first' - Luka Modric comments on Mbappe transfer decision
Luka Modric has joined the list of Real Madrid players to comment on Kylian Mbappe's decision to continue at Paris Saint-Germain.
Real Madrid president, Florentino Perez, also criticised Mbappe's decision, claiming that he was convinced to stay by factors outside of football.
Now, Modric has become the latest man to speak on the matter, in an interview with Croatian outlet Sportske.
''Mbappe decided what he decided, that is his right and now he lives with that decision,'' said the 36-year-old.
''We all thought he would come with us, it didn’t happen… and now, what? Well, we aren’t going to crucify him.''
''Mbappe is a great player, but as I always repeat, in any context, no footballer is more important than the club. Real Madrid is the greatest, above all players and it will always be that way.''
However, Modric realises that Mbappe remains likely to play at Santiago Bernabeu, just a few years later down the line than first thought.
''It’s possible that in a few years Mbappe comes. That follows footballing logic, which was valid up until the pressure from the socio-political elements and the interests in Paris.
''Mbappe probably continues with his old desire of playing for Real Madrid. As much as it seems as if the bonds have been broken, especially in the upset fans, these things can come round again.''
Isco on Mbappe
Isco, who has recently left Real Madrid, also commented on Mbappe's decision to turn Los Blancos down in favour of PSG.
''When I was at Malaga I knew I had to go [to Madrid],'' he wrote in a clear reference to Mbappe.
''I had committed to another team but Real Madrid knocked on my door and Real Madrid cannot and should not be told no, although there are always exceptions.''
Isco also included an emoji of a turtle in reference to Mbappe.