Luka Modric still isn’t done yet. The Croatian World Cup veteran will—as had recently been speculated—return to AC Milan after his extended vacation.
Even when he first signed a year ago—after Luka Modric’s highly emotional departure from Real Madrid (2012–2025) to join Milan—the Croatian soccer legend made one thing clear: He wanted to take his Serie A stint seriously as the culmination of his magnificent career.
And: “I grew up watching Italian soccer all the time. Milan was always my favorite team—especially when my idol Boban played there.”
Modric as an extension of the team
These were not just empty words, as the following season—with 34 top-flight appearances (two goals)—and this past Thursday would prove. As had been widely expected, Modric extended his contract with the Rossoneri—initially limited to one year—for another season, keeping him with the club through June 30, 2027.
As reported by Sky Sport Italia and others, the new AC coach, Ruben Amorim, is said to have successfully convinced the midfielder—who will turn 41 in September—to stay.
It’s clear what Modric is expected to bring to the team, which is undergoing a transition and, despite taking an early lead on the final matchday of last season, squandered what seemed like a sure Champions League berth: With his experience—which also benefited Croatia’s national team once again at the World Cup in North America (four appearances until their narrow 1-2 elimination in the Round of 16 against Portugal)—Modric is expected to guide the team. Essentially as an extension of the Lombardy club’s new coach.
Will Modric still be around for the European Championship?
The veteran himself emphasized this after finalizing his contract extension: “I’m very happy to continue being part of AC Milan, where I’ve felt welcome and loved from day one. After a season that didn’t meet our expectations, the desire to make amends is huge. A new season and a new challenge await us—a project I believe in and that truly motivates me.” He said he’s fired up “to give it my all again for this jersey. And I’m so proud to continue wearing these colors.”
What happens beyond that remains to be seen at this point. Modric, who is currently on World Cup break and will soon join Milan for preseason training in Australia, has not yet set a firm retirement date for 2027, nor has he decided on an end date for his national team career after an impressive 202 appearances (29 goals) to date. Will the midfielder perhaps add another year to his professional career to compete with his home country in the 2028 European Championship, which will be held in the United Kingdom?
