Luka Modric revealed the reasoning behind his move to AC Milan was due to his desire to "stay in Europe" and "continue playing competitive football". 

After 13 trophy-laden years at Real Madrid, Modric put pen to paper on an initial one-year deal with Milan earlier this week, having left the Spanish capital as a free agent. 

The Croatia captain won 28 major trophies during his time with Madrid, including six Champions League crowns and four LaLiga titles. 

Across all competitions in 2024-25, he set his season-high number of appearances for Los Blancos (57), and had 13 goal involvements (four goals, nine assists). 

Indeed, since his move to Madrid from Tottenham in 2012, only in 2021-22 (15) has he been involved in more, proving he still has what it takes to compete at the highest level. 

Prior to his move to Milan, Modric had been linked with transfers to Inter Miami, Al-Nassr and Inter, but the 39-year-old is now focused on making an impact with the Rossoneri. 

"I wanted to stay in Europe, to continue playing competitive football. I had some other offers but when Milan showed up for me, it was clear from the first moment," he said.

Modric joins a Milan side who endured a disappointing 2024-25 campaign, finishing eighth in Serie A and missing out on competing in Europe. 

This will only be the Italian giants' fourth campaign without European football this century, having also spent 2014-15 and 2015-16 without continental commitments.  

"Milan cannot be satisfied with average and need to have the biggest goals possible, to win titles, to compete with the best teams in the world. That's why I am here," Modric said. 

"I'm never satisfied, I always want more. When you've experienced that feeling (of winning), you want to feel it even more. I still have hunger, desire, still wanting more."

To explain his longevity, Modric said "the most important thing is the love for the game, for football".

"That's what I still have, what I still feel in my belly, this fire, that's what pushes me. There are no secrets.

"For me, it's the passion, the love for football. I am never satisfied."

Modric's first competitive outing for his new team could come on August 17 when they face second tier Bari in the round of 64 of the Coppa Italia. 

Massimiliano Allegri's side then kickstart their Serie A campaign against newly promoted Cremonese six days later.