Only the welcome committee at Milanello was skipped, simply due to a lack of time. Everything else went as smoothly as expected. The long wait is over, and as of yesterday, it’s official: Luka Modric is a new AC Milan player “until June 30, 2026, with an option to extend until June 30, 2027,” as stated in the Rossoneri club’s announcement.
The statement also proudly highlights just a couple of points from Luka’s vast résumé: "He captains Croatia and has the most caps for his nation of any player in history: 188 (28 goals). In 2018, he won the Ballon d'Or, the crowning jewel in a career that has seen him become one of the greatest players in the history of the game..”
Around here, they know a thing or two about Ballon d’Or winners, they’ve seen quite a few come through—and the reminder of the good old days is strong. As strong as the warm smile Modric wore yesterday late in the morning when he landed at Malpensa’s private terminal: when the sliding airport doors opened, a serene man appeared. And so, he smiled. At ease, in short.
“I’m very happy to be here; great challenges await me,” he told the journalists waiting for him (several foreign TV crews were present, including a Croatian one), before getting into his car. Later in the day, he added: “Hello to all Milan fans—I’ve just arrived in Milan and I’m very happy and excited to start a new chapter of my career. A big hug to all of you: I can’t wait to see you at San Siro. Let’s hope we can give you many beautiful moments and make you proud and happy with us, to celebrate many victories together.”
And again: “I’m ready and excited. Why did I choose Milan? Because it’s a great club.” Amen.
Modric, how many trophies?
“Very excited” is a phrase Milan fans will love. Because Modric isn’t just an added value on the pitch for this Milan, he’s also a kind of psychological boost for the Rossoneri faithful. A tonic. A reason to smile alongside him.
Yesterday, they followed him everywhere. First to the La Madonnina clinic for his medicals, then to the Ambrosiano center for his fitness tests, then to the Melia Hotel, and finally to Casa Milan where, after visiting the Rossoneri museum—though honestly, between him and the club, how many trophies were in that room?—he signed the contract (with a salary of €3.5 million).
Together in August
No Milanello, as mentioned. Allegri and the team were waiting to greet him, but Luka at that hour had to head back to Malpensa to catch a private flight to Zadar, where he had to land before a set time. So, the meeting is postponed to August 4 or 5, when Milan will have returned from their tour and Modric from his well-earned vacation following the Club World Cup with Real Madrid.
At Milan, he’ll wear the number 14 shirt, passed down from Tijjani Reijnders, staying in the realm of velvet-touch players.
Source: La Gazzetta dello Sport
