A legend on the move, but not just yet. Luka Modric has already made up his mind about his next destination—but in true Modric fashion, he’s chosen to exit the stage with dignity, patience, and purpose. The Croatian midfield maestro, widely regarded as one of Real Madrid’s greatest-ever players, has agreed to join AC Milan. Yet the ink on his next contract will have to wait.
As headlines swirl around his future, one detail remains shrouded in mystery: why has Modric postponed his medical with Milan? The answer reveals a story not just about a player changing clubs, but about legacy, loyalty, and finishing on his own terms.
At 39 years old, Luka Modric is preparing to embark on a new chapter. His next club is Milan, where he is expected to sign a one-year contract with the option to extend until 2027. According to renowned journalist Fabrizio Romano, the deal is sealed: “There is a full agreement between Modric and AC Milan, and he has already said yes.”
The terms are straightforward—$4 million net plus bonuses—but money was never the motivating factor. Modric, who helped Real Madrid lift six Champions League titles, has always prioritized purpose and preparation. His choice of Milan, a club rich in European history, speaks volumes. As the second-most decorated team in Champions League history, the Rossoneri offer Modric a platform that aligns with his ambitions and stature.
Silent goodbye to Madrid
Though it was Modric’s wish to retire at the Santiago Bernabeu, Real Madrid president Florentino Perez reportedly decided it was time to part ways. That decision, while difficult, was accepted with grace. “It hasn’t been easy for him,” one Spanish outlet noted, “but Modric has always been clear: his next move wouldn’t be about money, but staying in shape for the 2026 World Cup.”
Still, this transition won’t be rushed. Despite the temptation to finalize everything before the season ends, Modric has postponed his Milan medical until after the FIFA Club World Cup. And now, we know why.
Real reason behind the delay
The Croatian midfielder has chosen to delay all formalities with Milan because he wants to remain fully focused on Real Madrid during the Club World Cup in the United States. As La Gazzetta dello Sport explains: “Out of respect for the club that made him a Ballon d’Or winner in 2018, Modric asked Milan to delay his medical and announcement.”
The Italian side, recognizing the magnitude of the veteran’s connection to Madrid, respected his request. The Rossoneri have opted to keep the deal under wraps during the tournament and will only finalize the move after Madrid concludes its participation.
Real Madrid will open the FIFA Club World Cup on June 18 against Al Hilal, followed by group matches against Pachuca on June 22 and Salzburg on June 26-27. Modric will be a part of that squad, making one final push to add another title to his legendary collection.
After the tournament, and once his contract with Madrid officially expires, he will travel to Italy, undergo a medical, and complete his signing. According to Sky Italia, all that’s left is paperwork and physicals—“Modric will not carry out any formal steps until Real Madrid’s participation in the tournament concludes.”
