July 07, (THEWILL) — Luka Modric will join AC Milan in August following the conclusion of the Club World Cup, bringing an end to his 13-year stint at Real Madrid. The confirmation came from Milan’s new head coach, Massimiliano Allegri, during his introductory press conference on Monday. Modric, who captains the Croatian national team and won the Ballon d’Or in 2018, had earlier announced his departure from Madrid after the tournament.
Real Madrid are scheduled to face Paris Saint-Germain in the semi-finals of the Club World Cup on Wednesday, with the final set for Sunday. Modric’s arrival is expected to boost a Milan side eager to recover after finishing 8th in the 2024/2025 Serie A season, a result that saw them miss out on European football. Allegri described the 39-year-old midfielder as “an extraordinary player” and said he would join the squad in August.
Allegri, returning to the Milan dugout for a second spell following the dismissal of Sergio Conceicao in May, addressed the challenges ahead and the club’s need to rebuild. “The only way to regain respect is through responsibility and by achieving results,” he said, urging fans to stand by the team. Milan will begin their Serie A campaign at home against Cremonese on August 23.
The club has already seen key departures, with Netherlands midfielder Tijjani Reijnders sold to Manchester City in June. France international Theo Hernandez is also expected to leave, with a move to Saudi Pro League side Al Hilal under consideration. However, Allegri indicated that goalkeeper Mike Maignan and forward Rafael Leao are likely to remain with the squad.
Allegri previously led Milan to the Serie A title in the 2010/2011 season before managing Juventus. His return marks a fresh attempt to restore the club’s competitiveness domestically and abroad. Modric’s signing signals Milan’s intent to add experience and leadership to a side in transition.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
