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Dani Olmo: "I've experienced a lot in Croatia. I played matches in cities that were bombarded, like Vukovar."

13. February 2024
Dani Olmo (foto: uradna spletna stran kluba)
Dani Olmo gave a big interview to AS ahead of the Champions League round of 16 match where RB Leipzig will visit Real Madrid.

The Spanish national player, who shone while playing for Dinamo, also spoke about Luka Modrić and his importance to Real and football, mentioned Croatia, and revealed why he helps children there.

Luka Modrić is in the last year of his contract with Real, and it is currently unknown where he will continue his career. His possible move to Saudi Arabia has been mentioned, and there are also reports that he could join Inter Miami, where Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez, Jordi Alba, and Sergio Busquets play.

"There's big competition in Madrid. Modrić has proven he's one of the best in the world, not just in his position but overall. But those who have arrived at the club, like Eduardo Camavinga, Jude Bellingham, and Aurelien Tchouameni, are young. I'm sure they are learning from him and other veterans, like Toni Kroos. I know Modrić, he's an example on and off the field. Everyone will learn from him," said Olmo.

He also reflected on the praise he received from Pep Guardiola, who said Olmo is a "superior player, whose future is bright," and from Luis Enrique, who considers Olmo "a beautiful player, top level."

"I appreciate those words. I was lucky to work with Luis Enrique; he gave me continuity in the national team. I appreciate that opportunity. I've learned a lot from him, and what he said makes me proud," highlighted the former Dinamo player, who is used more on the wings than in the midfield at Leipzig.

He comments on being a dribbler and playmaker weighing around 70 kilograms in a world of stronger players:

"I don't think my type is dying out, but it's possible there are fewer of us than there used to be. Better for me. Football evolves, there are fewer 4-2-3-1 formations and more hybrids like 4-3-3 or 4-2-2-2. Players adapt. Even though I play on the wing, I still feel like a number ten. I move between the lines. Modrić is a ten, but he's versatile, plays between the lines, his final pass is exceptional."

"Players today have to be able to play in multiple positions. System flexibility is important; football is dynamic, one moment you're in midfield, the next on the wing," he concluded that part and then answered a question about donating 1 percent of his salary to charitable causes, reminiscing about his experience playing football in Croatia.

"We footballers have a responsibility. Not just to win matches but also a responsibility towards society. After living in Croatia, I felt I had to help. We helped children who lost someone in the war. I've experienced a lot in Croatia. I played matches in cities that were bombarded, like Vukovar. I felt I had to help Croatia and those families in some way," highlighted Olmo.


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