Luka Modric is poised to sign a one-year contract extension with AC Milan, according to reports from Italy. The Croatian midfielder will continue with the Rossoneri for the 2024-25 season, despite interest from other clubs and a previous connection to Real Madrid.
Modric enjoyed a remarkably productive first season with Milan, playing more minutes in Serie A than he did across all competitions during his time with Real Madrid, and nearly matching his minutes from his Tottenham days. Last season he played 2816 minutes in Serie A, just shy of the 3216 minutes he played for Tottenham in the 2011-12 Premier League campaign. Despite a mid-season injury, his physical condition has reportedly remained excellent, leading to suggestions he has “rejuvenated” by fifteen years.
While on holiday in Croatia, Modric has continued to maintain his fitness regime, even participating in handball with fellow Croatian international Filip Ivic. This dedication to physical conditioning has been a hallmark of his career and is seen as a key factor in his continued success. He played all four of Croatia’s matches at the recent World Cup as a starter.
Under new manager Paulo Fonseca, Modric is not expected to replicate the high volume of minutes from the previous season. Instead, he will be integrated into the team as a key player with a slightly reduced workload, potentially mentoring younger midfielders such as Ricci and Jashari. The club owner Gerry Cardinale and manager Fonseca, along with club legend Zlatan Ibrahimović, were all involved in convincing Modric to stay. Modric’s Instagram profile still lists Milan as his current club, and the existing contract included a renewal option that the club has now exercised, with the player’s agreement. This move ensures Milan retains a world-class talent and provides valuable experience to a developing squad.
