A decision on Luka Modrić's future is expected soon, but after pressure from Gerry Cardinale followed by Zlatan Ibrahimović, the Croatian appears to have been persuaded. Barring an extraordinary twist, La Gazzetta dello Sport reported this morning that the veteran is set to extend his contract with AC Milan by another year. After all, leaving Milan with the bitter memory of missing out on Champions League qualification is simply not something he is willing to consider.
The plan and the Europa League
Naturally, Luka Modrić cannot be expected to maintain the same workload as last season, when he exceeded all expectations despite the fact that, fit as he may be, he is still 41 years old. For that reason, Ruben Amorim is reportedly preparing a new role for him, both on and off the pitch.
Physically, Modrić will almost certainly be managed more carefully, but his quality means he can also serve as a mentor and leader for the club's younger midfielders, such as Samuele Ricci and Ardon Jashari. Jashari, in particular, could (and arguably should) be entrusted with orchestrating Milan's midfield next season, with Modrić providing invaluable guidance.
And what about the Europa League? Although playing in the Champions League with Milan had been one of Modrić's ambitions, the Europa League is not expected to be an issue for him. Given his relentless competitive spirit, he could even be motivated by the chance to add the one major European club trophy still missing from his collection.
Modrić keeps training even on holiday:
Following an intense World Cup campaign, Luka Modrić is now enjoying some well-earned time off with his family in Punta Skala, on Croatia's northern Dalmatian coast. However, the break has not distracted him from maintaining his fitness and training routine, which remain essential if he is to report for pre-season at the end of the month in the best possible condition ahead of his first campaign under Ruben Amorim at AC Milan.
