Luka Modric’s arrival at AC Milan has sparked a massive wave of enthusiasm among fans and brought significant media attention. The Croatian star, welcomed with chants and applause, expressed his joy at beginning a new chapter with a “great club,” despite having turned down offers from Saudi Arabia in order to stay competitive in Europe, as pointed out by Corriere della Sera in today's edition.
At nearly 40 years old, Luka Modric is nearing the end of his career, but coach Massimiliano Allegri is convinced that his leadership on the pitch and in the dressing room will be extremely valuable. Milan, coming off an eighth-place league finish and the departure of Reijnders, is in need of a role model and a leader — much like Zlatan Ibrahimovic was in 2020. That comparison persuaded Ibrahimovic, now a consultant to Gerry Cardinale, to support the idea proposed by Igli Tare, the first to consider bringing the former Real Madrid player.
Igli Tare revealed that Modric’s first question on the phone was whether the team would be built to win, a clear reflection of his winning mentality. His track record speaks for itself: 28 trophies in 13 years with Real Madrid, including six Champions League titles and the 2018 Ballon d'Or.
Luka has signed a one-year contract with an option for a second. Salary? 3.5 million euros net. He will wear the number 14 shirt. After playing in the Club World Cup, he will return to Italy in early August, with his debut expected on August 17 against Bari in the Coppa Italia. Despite his age, Modric has proven he can manage himself physically, having played 65 matches last season (36 as a starter) without any muscle issues. Allegri plans to use him as a versatile piece across the midfield — either as a central midfielder or deep-lying playmaker — capitalizing on his passing ability to spark Leao’s runs in behind.
