Serie A giants AC Milan have officially announced the signing of Croatian star Luka Modrić on a free transfer. The two parties have agreed to a one-year contract with an option to extend it for an additional year.
The former Ballon d’Or winner, who will turn 40 in September, will wear the number 14 jersey in the new season. The number is a tribute to Dutch legend Johan Cruyff and also the same number Modrić wore during his time at Tottenham Hotspur.
This May, Modrić formally announced his departure from Real Madrid, bringing to a close a 13-year chapter with the Spanish giants.
During his time at the club, he won an impressive 28 trophies, including six UEFA Champions League titles and four La Liga titles. Individually, he was awarded the Ballon d’Or and FIFA Best Player of the Year in 2018.
In a video released on Milan’s official website, Modrić greeted the Rossoneri fans: “I’m thrilled to be here and to join such a wonderful club like AC Milan. I can’t wait to see you all at the San Siro!”
He went on to say that he hopes to bring joy and pride to Milan supporters over the coming year and share in their victories. The video ended with Modrić shouting the iconic fan chant: “Forza Milan!”
A Childhood Dream Comes True
After the announcement, many fans shared an old photo on social media of a young Modrić wearing an AC Milan jacket.
In a 2020 interview with Gazzetta dello Sport, Modrić revealed that the jacket was a gift from his father, inspired by his childhood idol, Milan legend Zvonimir Boban, who led Croatia to a third-place finish at the 1998 World Cup.
Modrić also admitted that he had been a lifelong Rossoneri fan and had always dreamed of playing for the club one day.
Allegri’s Pick: A Key Piece in Milan’s Rebuild
Milan finished 8th in Serie A last season, missing out on European competition. After the season ended, the club sacked coach Sérgio Conceição. It brought back Massimiliano Allegri, who had led them to the Scudetto in 2011.
Before finalizing the deal, Allegri reportedly consulted both Real Madrid and former Milan coach Carlo Ancelotti regarding Modrić’s condition.
Milan’s new sporting director, Igli Tare, even travelled to Croatia’s national team camp to seal the transfer personally.
Although Modrić had hoped to extend his stay at Real Madrid, the club opted to pursue a rebuild this summer and chose not to renew his contract. Modrić responded with understanding and respect.
Countdown to His Final World Cup
Modrić has stated that his biggest dream before retiring is to represent Croatia in one more World Cup. He believes next summer’s tournament in the USA, Canada, and Mexico will be his “last dance” with the national team, after which he may retire altogether.
Now wearing the red and black of Milan, Modrić embarks on a new chapter driven by pure love for the game and a dream not yet fully fulfilled.
His arrival brings not only invaluable experience to AC Milan but also reignites the passion of fans who yearn for both glory and magic.
It may not be a long journey, but it promises to be a legendary one worth remembering.
