Modric agreed to personal terms in June but waited until after the FIFA Club World Cup with Real Madrid to officially transfer. On 14/7, the Croatian midfielder debuted with his new club on a one-year contract, with an option to extend until the summer of 2027.

Luka Modric wearing an AC Milan jacket as a child.

In his first official interview on the club's website, Modric discussed a photo of himself as a child wearing a Milan jersey. "That photo looks great," the 39-year-old midfielder said. "I used to watch Serie A a lot as a child, and Milan was my favorite team."

Modric explained that during his childhood, Milan was one of the most famous clubs in the world and widely followed in Croatia. He also revealed his idol was Zvonimir Boban, the former Croatian star who played for Milan from 1991 to 2001, winning four Serie A titles and one Champions League. Boban also captained the Croatian national team that finished third at the 1998 FIFA World Cup.

Modric received lucrative offers from Saudi Arabia and MLS but wanted to continue playing at the highest level in Europe, hoping to participate in the 2026 World Cup. He has previously played in four World Cups: 2006, 2014, 2018, and 2022. His peak was in 2018 when he won the Golden Ball award, and Croatia finished second (losing to France in the final).

"I wanted to stay in Europe to continue playing top-level football. I had other offers, but when Milan came along, everything became clear," Modric emphasized, adding that he was impressed when Sporting Director Igli Tare traveled to Croatia to present Milan's project to him. "That shows how much they wanted me. Milan is one of the biggest clubs in Europe. Milan can't be satisfied with mediocrity; they need to set the highest possible goals: winning titles and competing with the top clubs. That's why I'm here."

Luka Modric's AC Milan debut on 14/7. Photo: AC Milan

Modric developed at Dinamo Zagreb's academy before joining Tottenham in 2008. Four seasons later, he moved to Real Madrid. Over 13 years, the 1.72m midfielder became the most decorated player in the club's history, with 28 titles, including six Champions Leagues and five La Ligas. He has been named to the FIFPro World XI six times and won the Ballon d'Or in 2018.

"I want to bring victories, help my teammates in every aspect, and work hard to earn my place in the team," Modric stated. "First and foremost, I come with respect for everyone: the players, the coaching staff, and the club. Nothing in life comes easy; you have to work hard and fight."

Luka Modric in AC Milan's away kit for the 2025-2026 season. Photo: AC Milan

Modric will wear the number 14 jersey at Milan, previously worn by Tijjani Reijnders, who transferred to Man City. This is the third time Modric has worn number 14, following his time at Tottenham (2008-2012) and with the Croatian national team (2004-2009).

AC Milan will play their first friendly match against Arsenal at the Singapore National Stadium at 6:30 PM on 23/7, Hanoi time. Modric may not play in this match, having just participated in the FIFA Club World Cup with Real Madrid.

Hong Duy (according to Football Italy)