What AC Milan Must Do to Keep Luka Modric for One More Season
The former Real Madrid star’s relentless hunger for success could determine whether he stays with the Rossoneri before eventually calling time on his career.
Croatia midfielder Luka Modric gave his career a fresh spark after joining AC Milan in 2025, and the veteran playmaker could remain in Serie A for another season beyond the 2026 FIFA World Cup — provided a few key conditions fall into place.
Approaching his 41st birthday, the legendary former Real Madrid star is eager to continue wearing the Rossoneri shirt. However, Modric’s winning mentality means he only wants to stay at a club capable of competing at the highest level. According to Italian outlet La Gazzetta dello Sport, the Croatian veteran would extend his stay in Milan if Massimiliano Allegri remains as head coach and if AC Milan secures qualification for next season’s UEFA Champions League.
CAN THOSE CONDITIONS BE MET?
The first scenario depends largely on Allegri himself and his ongoing talks with Napoli, who are reportedly interested in appointing the Italian manager for the 2026-27 season after finishing runners-up under Antonio Conte.
The second condition rests in the hands of Modric and his teammates. This weekend, Milan will put its Champions League hopes on the line against Cagliari at San Siro in the final round of the Serie A season.
Currently sitting third in the table with 70 points, the Rossoneri need a victory to guarantee their return to Europe’s premier club competition without relying on other results, as Juventus, Como, and AS Roma remain within striking distance.
Despite his age, Modric has played a pivotal role in Milan’s resurgence this season. Across 35 appearances, he has contributed two goals and three assists while providing invaluable leadership in the dressing room. Losing him would be a major setback, especially with the club aiming to return to the Champions League spotlight.
WHAT HAPPENS IF THE DREAM SCENARIO FALLS APART?
Although Modric’s immediate focus will be on leading Croatia at what could be his final World Cup with the national team, the midfield icon remains a highly sought-after player who would have no shortage of options should Milan fail to meet his expectations.
While nothing is concrete at this stage, a return to Dinamo Zagreb — where his professional career began — remains a possibility. Clubs in Major League Soccer and leagues across the Middle East could also emerge as potential destinations for the Croatian star once the World Cup concludes.
For now, Modric is fully focused on arriving at the tournament in peak condition. Croatia will play friendlies against Belgium on June 2 and Slovakia on June 7 before kicking off its World Cup campaign.
In Group L action at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Croatia will face England in Arlington, Texas on June 17, Panama in Toronto on June 23, and Ghana in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania on June 27.
