Luka Modrić, one of football’s most revered midfield maestros, has officially left Real Madrid to join AC Milan in a stunning late-career transfer that closes a historic 12-year chapter at the Santiago Bernabéu. The 39-year-old Croatian signed a one-year deal with the Serie A giants following Madrid’s exit from the ongoing 2025 FIFA Club World Cup in Japan.
Gareth Bale, who shared dressing rooms with Modrić both at Tottenham Hotspur and Real Madrid, led the wave of tributes, describing his former teammate as “fine wine.” Speaking to ESPN shortly after the move was confirmed on July 11, Bale said, “I always call him a fine wine — he just keeps getting better with age. What an incredible footballer.”
Modrić, the 2018 Ballon d’Or winner, exits Real Madrid with a staggering trophy cabinet: 5 UEFA Champions League titles, 4 La Liga trophies, and multiple domestic and international honors. His move to Milan comes as part of Xabi Alonso’s strategic shift to build a younger, faster squad, despite Modrić’s continued brilliance on the pitch this past season.
During the 2024/25 campaign, Modrić remained an elite performer for Madrid, clocking over 2,000 minutes across competitions and recording 6 assists and 3 goals. However, with the likes of Jude Bellingham, Arda Güler, and Federico Valverde cementing their roles in midfield, the club opted not to renew the Croatian’s contract.
The move to Milan reunites Modrić with Serie A — a league known for embracing experienced veterans. AC Milan’s management sees him as a short-term leader for a young, evolving team aiming to reclaim domestic dominance and European relevance. His unveiling is expected to take place at San Siro early next week.
Fans and analysts have hailed the transfer as a coup for Milan. Legendary Italian midfielder Andrea Pirlo praised the move, saying, “Modrić brings elegance, vision, and control. He will raise the standard of everyone around him.” Social media has erupted with tributes, with “Modric to Milan” trending worldwide on X and Instagram.
As one of the last icons of Real Madrid’s golden era bows out, Gareth Bale’s heartfelt words have resonated across football circles. “He could still keep playing anywhere in the world,” Bale added. “But like all legends, he deserves to choose how he exits the stage — and he’s doing it with class.”
