In an era where AC Milan finds itself navigating choppy waters, seeking to recapture its past grandeur, the arrival of Luka Modric resonates as a profound statement. It`s more than just a transfer; it`s a veteran maestro stepping onto a new stage, not for a quiet swansong, but with a declaration that echoes the club`s storied history: Champions League qualification is the “absolute minimum objective.”
A Childhood Dream Realized, A Legacy to Reclaim
For many, Modric`s decision to leave a `golden life` at Real Madrid for a Milan not currently participating in European competitions might seem perplexing. Yet, the Croatian midfielder reveals a deep-seated connection. “I grew up watching Italian football, and Milan was my favorite team, the one I supported,” Modric shared. “It was widely known in Croatia, and my idols passed through here. I’ve always had a very special affection for this club.” This isn`t merely a professional move; it`s a homecoming of sorts, a fulfillment of a childhood fantasy now charged with the weighty task of restoration.
The Anti-Mediocrity Manifesto
Modric wasted no time in setting the tone, echoing sentiments he`d expressed weeks prior:
“Mediocrity does not belong to this club.”
— Luka Modric
This isn`t just bravado; it’s a programmatic manifesto for a club that boasts seven Champions League titles – a tally he dismisses as “no joke.” For Modric, merely qualifying for Europe`s elite competition isn`t enough; it`s merely “the first step.” His ambition is unambiguous:
“Milan must reach the highest possible level. I like to win; being very competitive is part of who I am. Going to the Champions League is the minimum. When I tell others I play for Milan, this is what everyone expects.”
— Luka Modric
Experience, Passion, and Humble Determination
At 39, Modric brings a wealth of experience unmatched by many. He pledges to replicate his hard-working, best-effort approach from previous clubs. Fully aware of the “very high expectations,” he embraces the challenge with characteristic calm.
“Beyond experience, I bring passion, and I would emphasize humility. I like to work quietly; I simply bring myself here. I can’t wait to start.”
— Luka Modric
His presence alone serves as a `comfort blanket` for the Milan faithful, momentarily restoring the feeling of a glorious past where players of his caliber were commonplace.
The Advisory Board and a Clear Path
The decision wasn`t made in a vacuum. While he hadn`t recently spoken with Zvonimir Boban, past conversations about Milan were frequent. More recently, he consulted with Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Carlo Ancelotti, both providing “wonderful information” about the club’s structure, expectations, and pressures – pressures Modric is well accustomed to from his Madrid tenure. Ultimately, it was Director of Sport Igli Tare`s direct approach, flying to Croatia and articulating a clear vision, that sealed the deal. “In my head, the choice was very simple,” Modric recounted. “Tare made me understand how much they believed in me. Something clicked.”
Echoes of Zlatan: A Second Coming for the Scudetto?
The comparison to Zlatan Ibrahimovic is inevitable. Ibrahimovic famously returned to Milan at an advanced age and played a pivotal role in securing a Serie A title. Modric, with a wry smile, acknowledges the parallel:
“Bring back the Scudetto like Zlatan did? Indeed, he arrived at a certain age and won the league, so I don`t see why it couldn`t happen to me too. I would be very happy.”
— Luka Modric
It’s a bold aspiration, suggesting that even a Ballon d’Or winner needs to occasionally borrow a page from the Swede`s playbook on defying Father Time. While Milan currently grapples with budget constraints and squad vacancies, the hope ignited by Modric`s arrival is palpable.
On the Pitch and Beyond
While Modric favors a central midfield role, he defers to “the world`s number one coach,” Massimiliano Allegri, for final tactical decisions. (He did, however, humorously note he wouldn`t bring up the 2017 Champions League final, where his Real Madrid famously defeated Allegri`s Juventus, “I don`t want him to get angry with me.”) He emphasizes a team-first philosophy: “I work for the team; only together can good results be achieved. I will do what he asks.” His early impressions of the team, having watched their matches against Arsenal and Liverpool, are positive: “excellent” performances and a “nice atmosphere” among the players.
The Road Ahead: Reclaiming Grandeur
Modric`s focus remains squarely on the present, preferring to “live in the moment, keep my feet on the ground, and not think about what will happen in a year.” Yet, his ultimate aspiration is clear: for Milan to replicate the “fantastic level” of play he witnessed last year at the Bernabéu in the Champions League – “a level that needs to be reclaimed.”
Luka Modric`s arrival isn`t just about a star player joining a club; it`s about a declaration of intent, a rallying cry for a sleeping giant to awaken and reclaim its rightful place at football`s summit. The journey back to the top starts now, with a Ballon d`Or winner leading the charge, unwavering in his belief that mediocrity has no home at AC Milan.
Elton Marrow