A New Chapter for a Football Legend
Luka Modric, the 39-year-old Croatian midfield maestro, has officially joined AC Milan on a free transfer after an illustrious 13-year tenure at Real Madrid. The veteran playmaker, who played 597 matches and secured 26 trophies with the Spanish giants, signed a one-year contract with the Italian club, valid until June 2026. This move marks a significant transition for Modric as he aims to bring his experience and skill to a struggling AC Milan side, fresh off one of their most disappointing seasons in recent memory.
The transfer was confirmed following Real Madrid's participation in the 2025 Club World Cup, where Modric played his final games for the club. His arrival at Milan has generated a wave of excitement among fans and media alike, with many eager to see how his presence will influence the team's performance in Serie A. Modric's salary at AC Milan is reported to be around 3.5 million euros, a notable decrease from his earnings at Real Madrid, indicating that this move is driven by passion for the game rather than financial gain.
Reviving Rossoneri Glory
AC Milan, a seven-time European champion, has been yearning for a return to its former glory, and Modric's signing is seen as a strategic step in that direction. Manager Massimiliano Allegri confirmed the Croatian star's arrival during a press conference, describing him as 'an important and extraordinary player.' Allegri's plan for Modric involves leveraging his exceptional vision and passing ability to bolster Milan's midfield, an area that has lacked creativity and consistency in recent campaigns.
Modric inherits the number 14 jersey at Milan, previously worn by Tijjani Reijnders, who recently departed for Manchester City. At 39, Modric brings a wealth of experience, including six Champions League titles and the 2018 Ballon d'Or, to a squad hungry for success. His role will likely focus on mentoring younger players while providing on-field leadership to help turn around the Rossoneri's fortunes after a lackluster season.
The Croatian captain's decision to join Milan comes after rejecting lucrative offers from other leagues in previous years, showcasing his commitment to competitive football over financial incentives. Fans are optimistic that his technical prowess and winning mentality will inspire a resurgence for the club in both domestic and European competitions.
Legacy at Real Madrid and Future Expectations
Modric's departure from Real Madrid marks the end of an era for one of the club's most decorated players. Over 13 seasons, he became a cornerstone of their midfield, contributing to numerous domestic and international triumphs. His emotional farewell to the club resonated with supporters worldwide, as captured in posts found on X where he reportedly said, 'Real Madrid, my home for 13 years. It's not a goodbye, it's a see you soon.'
As Modric embarks on this new journey with AC Milan, expectations are high but tempered by the realities of his age. While his physical capabilities may not match those of his prime, his footballing intelligence and ability to dictate play remain unparalleled. Analysts believe that if Allegri can manage his minutes effectively, Modric could prove to be a transformative figure for Milan in the 2025-2026 season.