Luka Modric will continue with AC Milan this season. The Croatian midfielder has explained his decision to stay in an interview with the club.
At 40 years old, Luka Modric has extended his adventure with AC Milan for another season, committing himself to the Rossoneri for one more year. Despite his age, the Croatian legend remains motivated and determined to compete at the highest level.
“Deep down, I knew I wanted to continue, but I also had to check certain things that would allow me to do so. Now I’m here and I’m happy to be back,” Modric explained.
The former Real Madrid midfielder also reflected on the disappointing end to last season. Milan had been competing near the top of the table for much of the campaign but eventually failed to secure qualification for the Champions League.
“Frustration is the word I would use to describe the final part of the season because we were doing things well. Until March, we were in the title race. Personally, I was also disappointed that my injury prevented me from helping the team as I had done before,” he admitted.
“Ultimately, we failed to qualify for the Champions League, but there were also positive things: the atmosphere around the club, inside the dressing room and the connection between us. We have a lot of respect for each other.”
Modric then discussed his period away with the Croatian national team, explaining that Milan was never far from his thoughts.
“In the first few days, I was only thinking about what had gone wrong after such a positive year. Then I had to focus on Croatia and the World Cup, but I always stayed in contact with the club. Milan was always in my mind, even when I was fully focused on the national team.”
The midfielder revealed that he could have renewed his contract as early as December but preferred to wait before making such an important decision.
“During the season, I could have signed a contract extension, even in December, but first I wanted to listen to my body and see whether I still had the same desire and passion for football.”
“When Milan showed me how much they wanted me and how important my presence was for the new project, that was exactly what I needed to hear. I spoke with my family and decided to stay.”
Despite turning 40, Modric insists that age is not something he thinks about.
“Everyone talks about my age, and some players are half my age, but I don’t think about it. They make me feel younger and encourage me to compete with them. That motivates me to continue because I am extremely competitive.”
Modric also praised the extraordinary affection shown by Milan supporters.
“I felt the love of the fans throughout the whole year, wherever we went. It was more than I could have imagined. When you receive so much love, you want to give something back and give your absolute best to represent Milan.”
🗣️ Luka Modrić: “I played for Real Madrid, the greatest club in the world, but I see that Milan stands on the same level.
— Madrid Zone (@theMadridZone) August 18, 2026
When you come here, you'll realize that for yourself.” pic.twitter.com/HjiPAylbCs
Having spent many legendary years at Real Madrid, Modric also compared the two European giants.
“I played for the biggest club in the world, Real Madrid, but I feel Milan is at the same level. People speak about Milan differently compared to other clubs. When you come here, you understand why. I felt as though I had been here for years.”
Looking ahead, Modric’s ambition remains unchanged: winning trophies.
“I have returned with the same objective I had on my first day: to win. We need to remain humble, work hard and stay united. When you play for a club like Milan, the natural mentality is to think about winning, not simply qualifying for the Champions League. You have to aim for the maximum. Here, we all share the same objective.”
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