According to Sky Sport, the Milan derby on the evening of 8/3 set a new box office revenue record in Italian football history, exceeding 10 million USD.

Amidst this atmosphere, Modric drew attention by purchasing approximately 60 tickets for family and friends from his homeland to attend and cheer. This marks his second encounter with Inter while playing for Milan, and it could potentially be his last, according to Sky's assessment.

Strahinja Pavlovic, Niclas Fullkrug, Luka Modric, and Alexis Saelemaekers (from left) celebrate after Milan's 1-0 victory over Inter in round 28 of Serie A at San Siro stadium, Milan, Italy on 8/3. Photo: Reuters

Among the guests was Mario Mandzukic, a familiar face at San Siro. The 39-year-old former striker, who once played for Milan, has retired and now works on the coaching staff for the Croatian national team.

Mandzukic had been in Italy since early last week. On the evening of 7/3, he received an award from Juventus and greeted the crowd on the field before Juventus's 4-0 victory over Pisa in Turin. Italian media reported that Mandzukic had been staying at Modric's home for the past few days.

Pervis Estupinan scored the only goal in Milan's victory. Photo: Reuters

At San Siro, Modric played the full 90 minutes, helping Milan secure a 1-0 victory over Inter. The decisive goal came in the 35th minute, when Youssouf Fofana delivered a through ball, allowing Pervis Estupinan to break free and finish into the near corner, beating goalkeeper Yann Sommer.

In stage one of Serie A, Milan also defeated Inter 1-0, thanks to Christian Pulisic. This marks the first time Milan has won both derby matches in Serie A since the 2010-2011 season, also under Max Allegri. This result narrows the gap with Inter to 7 points, keeping their championship hopes alive with 10 rounds remaining in the season.

"We always believed, but we must continue to progress one match at a time," Modric told DAZN Italy after the game. "It was a tremendous effort. We played wonderfully in the first half, and Inter pushed hard after halftime because they are a strong team, but they hardly created any clear opportunities. This shows we defended well, were very organized, and deserved the win."

Sergio Ramos in the stands at San Siro stadium. Photo: IPA

In the stands, many of Modric's family and friends were present to cheer, including his former Real teammate, Sergio Ramos. Ramos's presence also led to Modric being questioned about reports from Spain suggesting that coach Allegri might be considered by Real for the head coach position starting next season.

"There are many rumors surrounding Real, but I don't pay attention to those matters," Modric responded. "I am very happy in Milan, and I am also delighted that Sergio is here. Yesterday, he messaged saying he really wanted to experience the atmosphere of this derby. Ramos coming to watch the match and us winning made everything even better. Today, Milan had a bit of Ramos's spirit."

In Summer 2025, Modric joined Milan on a one-year contract, with an option to extend for an additional season. The 40-year-old midfielder will make the decision whether to stay or not.

Milan's management reportedly wants Modric to play for another season to help the team aim for a return to the Champions League. However, the final decision depends on several factors: his family's wishes, Modric's physical condition, and his plans after the 2026 World Cup.

Hong Duy (according to MilanNews, Football Italy)