After a glittering 13-year spell at Real Madrid, Luka Modric has officially joined AC Milan on a free transfer. The Croatian midfield maestro, widely regarded as one of the finest playmakers of his generation, has penned a one-year contract with the Rossoneri, with an option for a further year that could see him playing into his 41st year.
At 39 years old, Luka Modric remains as driven as ever, and his decision to continue at the top level with AC Milan shows his determination to remain competitive in elite football. Milan’s announcement of the transfer was accompanied by the statement, “La Scala del Calcio has a new maestro,” as they welcomed the 2018 Ballon d’Or winner to the San Siro.
Below is a quick glance at the key details surrounding this high-profile move:
Player Profile: Luka Modric
- Club: AC Milan
- Previous Club: Real Madrid
- Position: Central Midfielder
- Nationality: Croatia
- Age: 39
- Transfer Type: Free Transfer
- Contract: Until June 2026 (Option to extend to June 2027)
- Shirt Number: 14
- Real Madrid Appearances: 597
- Goals Scored for Madrid: 43
- Trophies Won at Madrid: 28 (Including 6 Champions League titles, 4 La Liga titles)
Luka Modric ended his Real Madrid chapter in July 2025 after participating in the Club World Cup. His final appearance came during a painful 4-0 defeat to Paris Saint-Germain in the semi-finals, a night that marked the conclusion of an iconic era for both the player and the club. With 597 appearances, 43 goals, and 28 trophies, Modric’s career at the Bernabeu is etched in the club’s history.
During his time at Real Madrid, Luka Modric helped the club to:
- 6 UEFA Champions League titles
- 4 La Liga titles
- 2 Copa del Rey titles
- 5 UEFA Super Cups
- 6 FIFA Club World Cups
- 5 Spanish Super Cups
He also earned 84 caps for Croatia and played a vital role in their 2018 World Cup final run, a performance that earned him the Ballon d’Or, breaking the Ronaldo-Messi duopoly in 2018.
Why Milan?
In May 2025, Luka Modric announced that he would leave Real Madrid as a free agent. AC Milan swiftly emerged as front-runners to secure his signature, especially after losing Dutch midfielder Tijjani Reijnders to Manchester City. With the arrival of Massimiliano Allegri as manager, the Rossoneri were eager to inject experience and class into their midfield — and Modric fits that bill perfectly.
Despite turning 39, Luka Modric remains in exceptional shape and brings with him unmatched tactical intelligence and leadership. Speaking after landing in Italy, he said, “Ciao everybody, I just landed in Milan. Very happy to be here, to start a new chapter in my career.”
With Luka Modric now in their squad, AC Milan aim to restore their status among Europe’s elite. The club missed out on European qualification last season, finishing eighth in Serie A, and have since revamped their structure by replacing manager Sergio Conceicao with Allegri.
Modric’s arrival is expected to stabilize and mentor Milan’s young core. His debut is likely to come in the Serie A opener against Cremonese on August 23. Wearing the No. 14 shirt, he is set to become the heartbeat of Milan’s midfield.
Modric’s Legacy and What Lies Ahead
Joining AC Milan signals the continuation of Luka Modric’s remarkable football journey. Having already proven himself in Croatia, England, and Spain, the move to Serie A is not just a final chapter — it’s a chance to extend his legacy. Milan’s midfield will gain creativity, discipline, and world-class experience.
Whether he helps Milan back into the Champions League or simply guides the next generation, Modric’s influence will be undeniable. And should he choose to activate the contract extension, fans may witness Luka Modric in red and black well into 2027.
Moreover, Modric’s leadership extends beyond the pitch. His professionalism, work ethic, and humility have set a benchmark throughout his career. With AC Milan aiming to rebuild their domestic and European standing, the presence of a player like Luka Modric could be the spark that reignites their ambitions—proving once again that class is timeless.
FAQs
Q1: What shirt number will Luka Modric wear at AC Milan?
A: He will wear the No. 14 shirt.
Q2: How long is Luka Modric’s contract with Milan?
A: One year, with an option to extend for another year until 2027.
Q3: When will Modric likely debut for AC Milan?
A: He is expected to debut on August 23 against Cremonese in Serie A.
Q4: How many trophies did Modric win at Real Madrid?
A: He won 26 major trophies, including 6 UEFA Champions League titles.