Luka Modric Thrives at AC Milan: A New Chapter in His Career

Luka Modric has shifted his plans to conclude his playing career at Real Madrid, opting instead to join AC Milan this past summer. Now at the age of 40, the midfielder has made a significant impact in Serie A, garnering accolades from teammates and former legends of Italian football. With one goal and two assists to his name for the Rossoneri, Modric has quickly become a vital player for Massimiliano Allegri’s squad as they pursue the Serie A title. His stellar performances have already sparked speculation about another potential transfer, yet Modric has articulated his fondness for the storied San Siro club and his delight in donning the red and black jersey.

Modric credited Milan’s esteemed reputation as a primary reason for signing a one-year contract with the club. He shared with Arena Sport: “After Real, I’ve always maintained that wherever you go, it feels like a step down. This is a universally acknowledged truth among players. However, I believe I have arrived at a club that closely mirrors Real Madrid in terms of reputation and history: this situation is ideal for me. I have always loved Milan, and my childhood was filled with admiration for Italian football. When the opportunity to join Milan arose, it felt like the perfect choice.”

Reflecting on his time in the city and at the club, he remarked, “The city is magnificent. I have been welcomed warmly, both within the club and beyond. The atmosphere, the teammates, the coach, and the fans—all of it is of the highest standard. You can truly sense that Milan is a historic club, one of the giants in world football. It’s a feeling that permeates every step, and I am genuinely enjoying all of this.”

Throughout his illustrious 13-year tenure in Madrid, Modric amassed 28 trophies, including six Champions League titles and four La Liga championships. Despite his achievements, he found it challenging to leave the club, admitting, “Honestly, it wasn’t easy because I spent 13 years—almost half my life—in one club and city. It was one of the best times of my life. I arrived in Madrid at 27, which may have seemed late, but I was ready for that step. My four years in England were immensely beneficial, and everything I experienced and accomplished in Madrid feels surreal.

“Beyond the trophies and victories, remaining with such a prestigious club for 13 years is incredible! I arrived at 27 and stayed until nearly 40, which is remarkable! Given Madrid’s high standards, enduring at that level for so long, while experiencing a multitude of successes, is truly extraordinary. Initially, I thought I would be satisfied retiring at 35, but my career trajectory has surpassed that expectation. I am grateful to still perform at this level, which is something remarkable!”

He added, “I’ve always expressed that it was my greatest wish to retire in Madrid. However, everything has its beginning and end.”

Currently sitting second in the Serie A standings, Modric’s Milan is set to face Lazio at San Siro on Saturday, aiming to surpass Roma for the top position—at least temporarily. After a full 90 minutes in the Rossoneri’s narrow 1-0 victory against arch-rivals Inter, Modric is expected to feature prominently once again this weekend.