At 39, Luka Modrić is embarking on a new challenge after 13 trophy-laden seasons at Real Madrid. The 2018 Ballon d’Or winner has signed a one-year contract with AC Milan, with an option for a second season, aiming to restore the Rossoneri to their former European glory.
Modrić’s journey is a full-circle moment: he grew up idolizing Zvonimir Boban, the Croatian star who dazzled for Milan in the 1990s. Now, more than two decades later, he steps into the San Siro spotlight with the weight of his own legacy—28 titles, including six European Cups and four Spanish league crowns.
The move comes on the heels of Milan’s toughest Serie A campaign in recent memory. An eighth-place finish left the club outside the continental competitions for the first time in years, prompting the board to rehire Massimiliano Allegri. The veteran coach, who led Milan to a Scudetto in 2011 and secured five straight titles with Juventus, consulted Carlo Ancelotti on Modrić’s current form before greenlighting the transfer.
Working swiftly behind the scenes, Milan’s sporting director Igli Tare traveled to Croatia to seal the deal just before the FIFA Club World Cup. Modrić completed his final act with Real Madrid on that stage, exiting after a 4-0 semifinal loss to Paris Saint-Germain in the United States.
With his Madrid chapter closed, Modrić arrives at Milan hungry to make an immediate impact. His vision, ball control and leadership will be key as Allegri rebuilds a squad eager to reclaim a place among Europe’s elite. Fans worldwide will watch closely to see whether this coup can spark a Rossoneri revival.
For young fans and digital nomads tracking global football trends, Modrić’s transfer is more than a headline—it’s a testament to longevity, ambition and the power of full-circle moments in sport.
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Luka Modric signs with AC Milan after 13 seasons at Real Madrid
cgtn.com
