After a glorious spell at Real Madrid, Luka Modrić is ready to embark on a new chapter in his football career. All signs point to AC Milan as his next destination. Although the deal hasn’t been finalized yet, negotiations are well underway and an agreement could be reached in the coming days. The contract would likely be for one season, with an option for a second based on performance and the mutual interest of both parties.

The reasoning behind his decision goes beyond football. Disappointed by not being offered the chance to continue at Real Madrid, Modrić has been searching for an opportunity that balances competitiveness with emotional resonance. In that balance, Milan represents more than just a new challenge it’s a choice rich in symbolism, personal meaning, and strategic value.

A Lifelong Admiration for Boban: From Idol to Friend

Since childhood, Modrić has looked up to Zvonimir Boban as his greatest footballing hero. The legendary Croatian midfielder was a key figure for Milan in the 1990s and a role model for an entire generation. Today, Boban is not only an idol but also a close friend of Luka, and that emotional bond has played a significant role in the player decision. Wearing the Rossoneri jersey is, for Modrić, a way of following in his idol’s footsteps and fulfilling a lifelong dream.

Milan as a Launchpad Toward the 2026 World Cup

At 39, Modrić ambition remains undiminished. One of his main goals is to reach the 2026 World Cup in top form and bid farewell to the Croatian national team on a high note. Among all the offers he received some from exotic leagues, others from European clubs with more international projection Milan stood out. The competitive demands of Serie A and the opportunity to play a meaningful role, rather than being a mere figurehead, proved decisive.

A Graceful Farewell and a New Beginning

All signs suggest that Modrić will soon don the Rossoneri colors. The deal is expected to cover one season, with the potential for an extension. This will likely be his final stint in elite European football. And he’ll experience it at a historic, ambitious club after one final objective with Real Madrid. Luka dreams of bidding farewell to the white shirt by lifting the club’s first-ever FIFA Club World Cup under the new format.