Rossoneri fans have received headline-making news: modern football’s living classic Luka Modrić has officially become a Milan player. Insider Fabrizio Romano reported that the 39-year-old Croatian signed a one-year contract and is already prepared to step onto the pitch in red and black. For the midfielder this is his first move to Serie A, and for Milan a rare chance to reinforce the squad with a Ballon d’Or-calibre footballer.
A New Chapter for the Midfield Maestro
Although the agreement is set for only one season, it includes an extension option. Milan’s management expects Modrić to bring the necessary balance to the centre of the park and mentor Sandro Tonali and other young midfielders. His experience at the highest level and ability to dictate the tempo make the Croatian an ideal “regista” in a double-pivot system.
Farewell to Real: An Era Written in History
Modrić arrived in Madrid in August 2012 and immediately fitted into the Los Blancos philosophy. Over 13 years he lifted the La Liga trophy four times, triumphed in the Champions League six times, won the Copa del Rey twice and the Spanish Super Cup five times. Together with Sergio Ramos and Karim Benzema, the Croatian formed the core of a side many call the most successful team of the 21st century.
A Bitter Finish at the Club World Cup
His contract expired just a day after a painful 1–2 defeat to Paris Saint-Germain in the Club World Cup semi-final on 9 July. For Modrić that match against the Parisians was his last in a white Real shirt — fittingly, this chapter ended on the world stage.
What Milan Gains
Along with his exquisite passing and vision, Luka brings a champion’s mentality that Rossoneri have sometimes lacked in decisive moments. Coach Stefano Pioli plans to utilise the veteran as a playmaker alongside a more mobile midfielder, allowing the team to retain possession longer and dictate the rhythm.
An Impressive Haul of Trophies and Records
Throughout his career Modrić has played more than 500 matches for club and country, scoring over 60 goals and providing more than 100 assists. In 2018 he broke the Messi-Ronaldo dominance to win the Ballon d’Or, while on the international stage he led Croatia to the 2018 World Cup final and 2022 bronze. Now he will try to add a Scudetto — the one trophy missing from his glittering résumé — to his collection.
The maestro’s move from Madrid to Milan opens an exciting chapter for both the player and Italian football as a whole. The upcoming Serie A season promises to be even brighter — after all, the eternal San Siro will now be conducted by Luka Modrić.
