The Croatian midfielder begins his training at AC Milan`s sports center, greeted with enthusiasm and an initial face-to-face discussion with the coach following recent phone calls.
“The Maestro reporting for duty.” With these words, AC Milan welcomed Luka Modric to Milanello via social media, marking the Croatian midfielder`s inaugural day at the Rossoneri`s training complex. This visit comes after a planned introduction three weeks prior was postponed due to time constraints. On July 14, the day of his arrival for medical examinations in Milan, a brief meeting with the team and coach in Carnago was scheduled. However, Modric`s tight itinerary, which included a private flight to Zadar immediately after signing his contract at Casa Milan, prevented it. With his vacation concluded and his intentions clearly articulated in yesterday`s press conference, Modric is now ready to begin training.
A Warm Welcome and Bright Smiles
A cascade of smiles accompanied Modric as he entered the training grounds, an entirely expected reception for the acclaimed midfielder. While perhaps not entirely astonished, given his background at Real Madrid`s luxurious Valdebebas, Modric still acknowledged Milanello`s high standards. Although Milanello might benefit from some modernization, it undeniably stands as a top-tier facility. “The training ground is beautiful, I`m happy to be here, I can`t wait to start,” Modric reportedly shared with the club`s media.
The highlight of the day was undoubtedly Modric`s inaugural direct conversation with coach Allegri. Allegri, beaming, posed for a picture alongside Modric in the iconic Sala del Camino. Their discussion, preceding the late afternoon training session, built upon their previous phone calls, signaling a new phase of direct collaboration crucial for optimal performance. Key topics included tactical deployment and Modric`s preferred playing position. During his presentation yesterday, Modric expressed his preference for a central midfield role. However, current indications suggest Allegri envisions him primarily as a right-sided “mezzala” (an attacking central midfielder), albeit one with playmaking responsibilities. This tactical approach is not rigid, allowing Modric to alternate between the right-central area and a deeper central defensive midfield role, adapting to team needs and opponents. Modric`s physical readiness is excellent; he completed standard athletic tests in the gym for new signings before joining his teammates on the pitch. Fans can anticipate his first appearances in an AC Milan jersey during upcoming matches against Leeds in Dublin on Saturday and Chelsea in London on Sunday, with his official competitive debut slated for August 17 against Bari in the Coppa Italia.
