Luka Modric has signed a one-year contract extension with AC Milan, keeping the veteran midfielder at San Siro until June 2027. The Croatian star reached the full agreement following the conclusion of the 2026 World Cup, committing to another season with the Rossoneri under new coach Ruben Amorim.
While industry speculation had questioned whether the 2018 Ballon d’Or winner would hang up his boots after the international tournament, multiple sources reported that Modric opted to continue his career at the highest level in Italy. The deal secures his stay through June 2027, with financial terms mirroring his previous campaign at roughly €3.5 million per season plus performance bonuses, according to regional reporting details shared via MilanNews and Germanijak.
First Season Impact at San Siro
Modric arrived at AC Milan last summer as a free agent following a 13-year tenure at Real Madrid, where he captured six Champions League titles and four La Liga crowns. A lifelong supporter of the Italian club due to childhood admiration for fellow countryman Zvonimir Boban, the midfielder wasted no time making his presence felt in Serie A.
During his first campaign in Milan, the veteran made 37 competitive appearances, finding the back of the net twice and contributing three assists. Football Italia noted that 32 of those outings came in the starting line-up. His playing time would have climbed even higher had he not suffered a fractured cheekbone during an accidental clash of heads with Juventus player Manuel Locatelli, an injury from which he returned ahead of schedule.
“A key figure in the Rossoneri midfield since his arrival, Luka has brought his experience and quality to the service of the team, both on and off the pitch, with humility and great passion.”
AC Milan, official club statement
Ruben Amorim’s Plans for the Number 14
The contract renewal delivers a significant boost to new manager Ruben Amorim. Taking charge in June following the departure of Massimiliano Allegri, the former Manchester United head coach made no secret of his admiration for the Croatian veteran.
“I think he’s a key player for us, especially at the start, to get more possession,” the Milan coach said of the number 14. “I’m not saying he’ll play every game, but we really want to be able to count on him next season.”
Ruben Amorim, Milan coach
Modric will continue donning his familiar number 14 jersey as the squad looks to rebound from a fifth-place Serie A finish and a round-of-16 exit in the Coppa Italia.
International Future and World Cup Aftermath
While his club future is now locked in for another year, questions regarding Modric’s international career remain open. The midfielder recently captained Croatia at his fifth World Cup tournament, where the national team suffered a last-32 elimination against Portugal. Since taking the captaincy in 2016, Modric has led his country through runs, including a runner-up finish and a third-place podium appearance.
Following a recent lunch meeting with newly appointed Croatia coach Slaven Bilic — who replaced Zlatko Dalic this month — speculation has grown that Modric might make a formal international farewell during the Nations League fixtures against Spain in October, leaving the ultimate decision entirely in the player’s hands.
Ambition to Reach New Milestones
Turning 41 in September, Modric approaches this new chapter with clear motivation to address the shortcomings of the previous season. In a personal statement released following his signing, the midfielder expressed his eagerness to return to the pitch.
“I am thrilled to stay at AC Milan, where you made me feel welcomed and loved from the very first day. After a season below our expectations, the desire to bounce back is immense. A new season and a new challenge await us – a project I believe in and that motivates me.”
Luka Modric, AC Milan midfielder
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