Croatian football legend Luka Modric has embarked on a new chapter with AC Milan, signing a one-year contract with an option for renewal after concluding a historic 13-season tenure at Real Madrid. The 39-year-old midfielder, who publicly bid farewell to Madrid in May, aims to revitalize the seven-time European champions following their eighth-place Serie A finish last season – their worst league performance in over a decade.
Modric's childhood admiration for Milan, fueled by compatriot Zvonimir Boban's 1990s stint with the club, comes full circle with this transfer. The 2018 Ballon d'Or winner leaves Madrid having secured 28 trophies, including six UEFA Champions League titles and four La Liga championships.
Milan's restructuring efforts under returning coach Massimiliano Allegri – who previously led the club to 2011 Serie A glory – appear strategic. The club's new sporting director Igli Tare finalized negotiations during Croatia's training camp last month, with Allegri consulting former Milan coach Carlo Ancelotti about Modric's current form.
While the deal preceded the FIFA Club World Cup, Modric completed his Madrid commitments with a semifinal loss to Paris Saint-Germain before joining his new team. This high-profile signing signals Milan's ambition to regain continental prominence through experienced leadership and technical mastery.
