Luka Modric: “Milan Must Aim Higher – No Room for Mediocrity”

• Luka Modric joins AC Milan with the goal of restoring a winning mentality.
• The 39-year-old midfielder arrives with 6 Champions League titles and unmatched experience.
• Modric: “Milan must aim higher, mediocrity is not acceptable.”
• He will return to Milan on August 4 after a short break in Croatia.

Zlatan Ibrahimovic helped Milan to their last Scudetto in 2022 at 39. Now, the Rossoneri look to another veteran leader to guide them back to the top, Luka Modric. The Croatian midfielder, 39, brings two decades of professional football and a cabinet of trophies, including six Champions League wins, to a Milan side aiming to shake off the disappointment of recent seasons.

Modric: A Champion’s Mentality

Like Ibra, Modric treats his late 30s like his prime. His 2024-25 season spanned seven competitions, including 1,820 minutes in La Liga, 646 in the Champions League, and appearances in all major Spanish cups and the FIFA Club World Cup.

Modric will return to Milan on August 4. Speaking to Milan TV, he said:
“I had other offers, but I never had doubts. Milan is a great club and should never settle for mediocrity. We must set the highest goals: winning titles and competing with the best in the world.”

His motivation was further boosted by the personal touch from sporting director Tare, who flew to Croatia to present Milan’s project.

Beyond Mediocrity

Last season’s failures, like finishing eighth and being eliminated in the Champions League qualifiers, defined mediocrity. Milan now seeks an expert guide to lead the way back, and Modric, with over 500 career victories across Dinamo Zagreb, Tottenham, and Real Madrid, is ready for the task.

While resting in Zadar with family, Modric is already focused. He turned down extra vacation time to join Milan as early as possible, even if Madrid had reached the final of the Club World Cup.

“I’ve achieved more than I ever expected, but I’m never satisfied. I want to feel the thrill of winning again.”

Ready to Compete

Modric joins with humility and ambition:
“I come with great respect for the players, the coach, and the club. I want to bring my hunger to win and help the team in every way. I’ll work hard to earn my place.”

With players like Modric joining, Milan sends a clear message, mediocrity is no longer acceptable. It’s time to aim higher.