“I Wanted to Stay in Europe” – Luka Modrić Explains Why He Chose AC Milan After Real Madrid Exit

Luka Modrić, one of the greatest midfielders of his generation, has officially joined AC Milan following his departure from Real Madrid, and he’s now revealed the personal motivation behind the high-profile move.

The 38-year-old Croatian maestro signed a one-year deal with the Rossoneri and will wear the No. 14 shirt in the upcoming 2025/26 Serie A season.

🗣️ Modrić: “Milan Showed They Really Wanted Me”

“Why AC Milan? I wanted to stay in Europe, continue playing competitive football,” Modrić told MadridXtra.
“I had some other offers, but when Milan showed up, it was clear for me. I was up to it from the first moment.”

Modrić also revealed that Milan executives flew to Croatia to pitch the club’s vision to him in person — a gesture that clearly resonated:

“It impressed me how they came to Croatia to present me the project and everything. That was very important to me. Milan is one of the biggest clubs in Europe.”

🔥 A Legend with More to Give?

After 12 iconic years at Real Madrid, where he won 5 Champions League titles, 3 La Liga crowns, and a Ballon d’Or, Modrić is now preparing for a new challenge in Italy, showing no signs of slowing down.

He is set to make his unofficial debut for Milan in their pre-season friendly against Arsenal next Wednesday, and fans are already buzzing to see how he links up with the likes of Rafael Leão, Christian Pulisic, and Ismaël Bennacer.

🧠 Opinion: Modrić’s Move Is More Than Sentimental — It’s Strategic

At 38, many would expect Modrić to take the easy route — a retirement league or Saudi payday. But instead, he chose to compete at the highest level, in one of Europe’s most tactical leagues.

Milan, on the other hand, get a world-class professional, a leader, and a mentor, especially for younger midfielders like Yacine Adli and Tijjani Reijnders.

It’s a win-win transfer, and one that proves Modrić’s hunger and humility remain unmatched.

📢 Milan fans — how excited are you to see Modrić in red and black? And Madridistas, what are your thoughts on his next chapter?
Let’s talk football legacy below. 👇

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