Luka Modrić joined the AC Milan squad in Perth for the club's pre-season tour of Australia on 2 August, alongside Belgians Alexis Saelemaekers and Koni De Winter, as well as Swiss midfielder Ardon Jashari. That meant the Croatian superstar made his first appearance just two days after returning to training for the new season. Despite the match being only a pre-season friendly played at a relaxed tempo, what stood out was the same composure and exceptional quality he has always displayed during the half-hour Ruben Amorim handed him against Inter.
Modrić returns: Applause from the crowd and the captain's armband
Luka Modrić's introduction at Perth's Optus Stadium was greeted with loud applause from the fans who had gathered for the Derby between Milan and Inter. It was the same warm reception he enjoyed throughout last season at San Siro, and one he is sure to receive again this year.
Yes, it was only a friendly, but seeing Modrić back in the middle of the park wearing the Milan shirt once again brought a genuine sense of reassurance. The fact that Amorim handed him the captain's armband after Matteo Gabbia was substituted spoke volumes about Modrić's stature within the squad (if any reminder was even needed) and highlighted just how heavily the Portuguese coach intends to rely on him this season.
Modrić comes on, Milan change
It is worth repeating once more to avoid any misunderstanding: this was only a friendly.
However, the way Luka Modrić influenced Wednesday's match against Inter clearly demonstrated why Milan were so determined to secure a one-year contract extension for him. More importantly, it showed that even at 41 years of age, the Croatian remains an invaluable asset for the Rossoneri.
Early in the second half, Milan found themselves under heavy pressure from Inter and were no longer able to play their way through the Nerazzurri's press as effectively as they had in the opening stages of the game. Once Modrić entered the pitch (and despite eight changes being made to the starting XI) Milan completely changed their approach and attitude. That cannot simply be a coincidence, as pointed out via Milannews.it.
Operating from the heart of midfield, the No. 14 dictated the tempo, took control of possession and brought his team back into the contest. Having a player with such extraordinary technical quality in midfield, combined with his leadership in the dressing room, will make all the difference this season. Amorim knows that better than anyone.
