AC Milan has officially completed the signing of Croatian midfield legend Luka Modrić, who joins the Rossoneri on a one‑year contract running until June 2026, with an option to extend for another year through June 2027. At 39, the Ballon d’Or-winning captain of Croatia brings an extraordinary résumé—and his signature No. 14 jersey—to a club eager to return to the pinnacle of European football.
A Legend Enters Serie A
Modrić’s move to Milan marks the only fourth club in his professional career following Dinamo Zagreb, Tottenham Hotspur, and Real Madrid. After 13 phenomenal seasons in white—during which he amassed 597 appearances and helped Real claim 28 major trophies, including six Champions League titles—Modrić opted for a free transfer to San Siro, concluding his La Liga journey following Real’s Club World Cup semi-final exit to PSG.
The decision carries emotional weight—Modrić grew up a Milan supporter and chose the number 14 jersey in homage to Dutch legend Johan Cruyff and as a bridging connection to his time at Tottenham.
What Modrić Brings to the Rossoneri
AC Milan’s sporting director Igli Tare and head coach Massimiliano Allegri have welcomed the Croatian icon not just for his footballing pedigree but for the leadership and professionalism he is expected to impart to a rebuilding squad. With Milan finishing eighth in Serie A last season—missing out on European competition—Modrić’s arrival signals a new ambition to reassert Milan’s status domestically and internationally/
The midfield department—bolstered by existing players Youssouf Fofana, Yunus Musah, Ruben Loftus‑Cheek, and the recent signing Samuele Ricci—is now anchored by Modrić’s vast experience and tactical intelligence. His presence is especially timely as Milan rebuild under Allegri, aiming to lay a foundation for success while preparing for Italy’s 2026 World Cup cycle and Milan’s return to European club competition.
The Timing: New Beginnings and Farewells
Modrić officially completed his switch following Real Madrid’s exit from the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup in which he made his final appearance as a substitute in the semi-final defeat to PSG . Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso paid tribute, calling him a “legend of world football” and emphasizing that Modrić will be remembered for far more than the final 25 minutes in Madrid’s campaign.
Modrić wasted no time expressing his excitement at joining Milan. In an Instagram video shared by the club, he said: “Very happy to be here to start a new chapter in my career”. With big challenges ahead deemed inevitable, he views this as his next phase—both as a player and as a veteran mentor moving toward the twilight of a historic career.
Why This Move Matters
Experience Meets Opportunity
At nearly 40 years old, Modrić brings an unrivaled trophy haul to a midfield that desperately needs sharpening. His Ballon d’Or pedigree and calm under pressure are assets Milan hope to leverage immediately.
Leadership & Youth Development
Under Tare and Allegri, Milan is restructuring around a mix of veterans and young talents. Modrić’s mentorship is seen as crucial to integrating new faces and solidifying a winning mentality in the squad .
World Cup Motivation
Eyeing a spot at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Modrić clearly prioritizes staying in Europe’s competitive arena over potentially easier moves to MLS or the Middle East/
Nostalgia & Fan Engagement
A life-long Milan supporter, Modrić’s arrival strikes a symbolic chord and energizes supporters with the promise of historic return.
Looking Ahead
Modrić is expected to report for pre-season training in early August, aiming to be available for Milan’s Serie A opener against Cremonese on August 23. Whether he will exercise the optional second-year clause and extend his stay until 2027 will likely depend on performance, fitness, and Milan’s trajectory—with European competition back in focus.
In joining AC Milan, Luka Modrić isn’t simply signing a new contract—he’s reaffirming his identity as a competitor at the highest level, mentor to a new generation, and heir to a heritage-laden club. His time at Milan could shape the final chapters of a storied footballing legacy—and perhaps set the stage for Milan’s return to glory.
