40 and Flourishing: Luka Modrić Commits to AC Milan Ahead of Rúben Amorim Era
Age remains merely a statistic for Luka Modrić. Amid rumors of potential retirement following Croatia’s 2026 World Cup run, AC Milan have officially confirmed that the 40-year-old midfield icon has signed a one-year contract extension, keeping him at the San Siro through June 30, 2027.
The former Ballon d’Or winner will earn an estimated €3.5 million net plus performance bonuses under the new agreement, continuing to wear his signature No. 14 shirt for the Rossoneri.
Defying Father Time: Modrić’s Impact in Milano
After arriving as a free agent from Real Madrid in the summer of 2025, Modrić quickly proved his enduring class in Italian football. Despite turning 40 during the opening stages of the campaign, he featured prominently across domestic and European competitions.
Modrić logged 37 appearances in all competitions during his debut season in Italy, serving as the primary orchestrator in Milan’s central midfield.
Luka Modrić: 2025/26 Season Snapshot
| Metric | Output / Detail |
| Total Appearances | 37 (34 in Serie A) |
| Serie A Starts | 32 Starts |
| Goals / Assists | 2 Goals / 3 Assists |
| Chances Created | 51 (2nd overall at AC Milan) |
| Contract Expiry | June 30, 2027 |
Crucial Stability for Rúben Amorim
The timing of Modrić’s renewal provides a massive boost for newly appointed head coach Rúben Amorim. Milan endured a turbulent 2025/26 campaign, tumbling to a fifth-place Serie A finish and missing out on Champions League qualification. The slide resulted in the departure of manager Massimiliano Allegri and a major hierarchy shakeup.
With Amorim stepping in to rebuild squad cohesion, retaining Modrić’s unmatched tactical wisdom and dressing room authority gives the Portuguese manager a steady anchor in the engine room.
AC Milan Official Statement: “Luka has brought his experience and quality to the service of the team, both on and off the pitch, with humility and great passion. One of the finest and most iconic players in world football, the Croatian will continue his journey in the Rossoneri shirt with the ambition to reach new, important milestones.”
What’s Next for the Maestro?
Following a short vacation after starting all four matches for Croatia at the 2026 World Cup in North America, Modrić is scheduled to rejoin the team for Milan’s pre-season tour of Australia.
With his club future secured through 2027, the veteran playmaker enters his 24th professional season focused on one clear objective: leading AC Milan back to the top tier of Italian and European football.
