Luka Modrić set to join AC Milan after FIFA Club World Cup
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New Delhi: Croatian football legend Luka Modric is set to join Italian club AC Milan following the conclusion of the ongoing FIFA Club World Cup in the United States. The 38-year-old midfielder had earlier announced that he would depart from Real Madrid after the tournament, drawing the curtain on a historic 12-year spell at the Spanish club.
AC Milan Sporting Director Igli Tare confirmed that a verbal agreement has been reached between the club and Modric. Speaking to 'Gazzetta dello Sport, Tare praised Modric’s competitive spirit and leadership qualities, calling his arrival vital for Milan’s ambitions.
“I spoke to him in person and saw a guy who is really eager to be competitive,” Tare said. “His arrival is crucial for a group that needs players like him and leadership.”
Tare revealed that Modric’s first question was whether the team would be built to win the Serie A title. “He has won six Champions Leagues and wants to be a star player from the start,” Tare added. “He is important for what he will convey in terms of mentality, leadership, and professionalism. The fact that he is an AC Milan fan makes this story even more exciting. It would be great for him to have a stellar season, especially with the World Cup at the end of the year.”
Modric joined Real Madrid from Tottenham Hotspur in 2012 and initially faced criticism, but he quickly silenced doubters to become one of the club’s all-time greats. With nearly 600 appearances, he helped secure almost 30 major trophies, including a record six UEFA Champions League titles and four La Liga championships.
His crowning individual achievement came in 2018 when he won the Ballon d'Or, ending the decade-long dominance of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. Renowned for his vision, composure, and technical brilliance, Modric has been the heartbeat of Real Madrid’s midfield and a symbol of consistent excellence.
Real Madrid are currently competing in Group H of the FIFA Club World Cup, with one win and one draw from their two matches. They are set to face the Austrian side RB Salzburg in their final group stage fixture on Friday (IST), aiming to secure a place in the knockout rounds.
With IANS inputs
