Luka Modric is expected to remain at AC Milan for the 2024-25 season, despite recent speculation regarding his future, according to reports in Italy. The 38-year-old midfielder is currently on holiday following Croatia’s elimination from the World Cup and is considering his options, but indications suggest he will accept an offer to extend his stay in Milan.
AC Milan’s new manager, Ruben Amorim, has reportedly spoken with Modric twice to convince him to remain at the club. Cardinale, the club’s owner, has also personally invited Modric to stay. While a return to Madrid remains a possibility, Modric is said to be content in Milan and motivated by the prospect of challenging for the Champions League once again.
However, Modric’s role at Milan is anticipated to be different than in his previous season with the club. Amorim intends to deploy Modric as a deeper-lying midfielder in a two-man central midfield, a similar role he fulfilled for the Croatian national team, rather than the more advanced playmaker position he occupied under previous manager Stefano Pioli. The change in role is also linked to a strategy of managing Modric’s workload.
With Milan competing in both Serie A and the Europa League, the club faces a significantly increased number of fixtures compared to last season. Given Modric will turn 41 in September, Amorim plans to rotate the squad and utilize Modric strategically, primarily in important matches, either as a starter or a high-quality substitute in the latter stages of games. This approach mirrors his final season at Real Madrid, where he featured in a similar rotational capacity. During the 2023-24 season with Real Madrid, Modric started 17 La Liga matches and appeared as a substitute in 18, with a similar split in Champions League appearances. This careful management is designed to ensure Modric remains a valuable asset throughout the season, contributing in key moments and maintaining his fitness.
