After a brilliant 13-year career and 28 titles with Real Madrid, Luka Modrić is expected to soon confirm his move to AC Milan, now that Los Blancos have wrapped up their participation in the 2025 Club World Cup. At 39 years old, the Croatian midfielder will sign a contract to continue his career in Serie A, also accepting a significant pay cut.

A sweet and grateful farewell

Modrić brought his time at the Bernabéu to a close after a painful 4-0 defeat to PSG in the semifinals. But Xabi Alonso, his former teammate and now coach, reminded everyone that his legacy goes far beyond that final match: "He’ll be remembered for everything else." In total, Modrić played 597 matches and lifted 28 trophies—the most ever by a Real Madrid player.

Why AC Milan?

The legendary playmaker is heading to Italy to join the project led by Massimiliano Allegri, who has already confirmed Modrić’s arrival for August. Milan is looking to make a statement after a modest season (finishing eighth), and sees Modrić as a key piece in its rebuild, alongside other changes to the squad.

The pay cut

Modrić will take a major salary reduction, going from €10 million per year to just €2.5 million—a 75% pay cut. This decision proves that the Croatian wizard is still motivated by one last big football adventure in Europe, and of course, by the chance to keep competing with Croatia in international tournaments.