Liam Duckstein
Luka Modric’s legendary Real Madrid chapter is nearing its end, and a fresh challenge in Serie A awaits. Newly-appointed AC Milan boss Massimiliano Allegri officially confirmed the Croatian maestro’s transfer to the Rossoneri during his inaugural press conference on Monday.
“Modric will arrive in August. He is an extraordinary player,” Allegri stated, signaling the end of Modric’s 13-year tenure with the Spanish giants. The 39-year-old midfielder, who lifted the 2018 Ballon d’Or and countless trophies in Madrid, will join Milan after participating in the Club World Cup—where Real Madrid are set to face Paris Saint-Germain in Wednesday’s semi-final, with the final slated for Sunday.
This blockbuster move gives Milan fans hope after a frustrating 2024/25 campaign that saw their team slump to an eighth-place Serie A finish, missing out on European football. For Allegri, who returns for a second stint at the San Siro after replacing Sergio Conceicao in late May, the path forward is clear.
“To the fans, I say the most important thing is to work well every day,” Allegri emphasized. “The only way to regain respect is through responsibility and by achieving results. We will absolutely need their support.”
Squad Reshuffle Begins
Allegri wasted no time addressing the shifting dynamics in Milan’s squad. Dutch midfielder Tijjani Reijnders has been transferred to Manchester City, while French fullback Theo Hernandez is on the brink of a move to Al Hilal in the Saudi Pro League.
“While Reijnders and Hernandez won’t be part of the team next season, (goalkeeper) Mike Maignan and (forward) Rafael Leao seem willing to stay,” Allegri revealed, hinting at a blend of stability and strategic overhaul ahead of the new campaign.
All Eyes on August
Milan will kick off their Serie A season on August 23 with a home clash against Cremonese. With Modric expected to join shortly after the Club World Cup, the Rossoneri faithful are bracing for a season that blends nostalgia with ambition.
Allegri’s last spell at Milan culminated in the 2010–11 Serie A title. Now, with Modric’s experience and a redefined squad, could history repeat itself? One thing’s for certain—Serie A just got a whole lot more interesting.