The 2018 Ballon d`Or winner is set to begin his Rossoneri journey. After the weekend, Modric will be in Italy for his first commitments with his new club, followed by a vacation period. His official presentation will take place upon his return to Milanello.
Luka`s remarkable journey culminated with him wearing the captain`s armband in a magnificent stadium, facing the world`s best team. A Club World Cup semifinal served as a fitting conclusion to his illustrious career with his former club. Milan extends a warm welcome, showing the respect due to a Ballon d`Or recipient and the affection that Milan fans reserve for those who have harbored dreams of playing for the Rossoneri since childhood, even during challenging times while living at the Kolovare hotel.
Medical Examinations and Signing in Milan
Luka Modric is scheduled to arrive in Milan early next week for his medical examinations and to officially sign his contract with AC Milan, his new team. This agreement has been in place for over a month, ever since Igli Tare, in his inaugural move as a Milan executive, decided to bring in an all-encompassing champion—a Ballon d`Or winner renowned for his professionalism and leadership, poised to introduce a new dynamic within the squad. Luka will spend the weekend with a palpable sense of anticipation, as he is on the verge of fulfilling a long-cherished childhood dream. While it is true that this is no longer the Milan of Berlusconi and Boban, and he has enjoyed an incredible tenure with Real Madrid, securing six Champions League titles (nearly matching Milan`s seven), the allure of this new chapter remains as strong as ever.
Vacation and Anticipated Return
Following his signing with the Rossoneri, Modric will embark on a well-deserved vacation. His immediate plans include returning to Croatia, though subsequent destinations remain uncertain. He has already communicated to Milan his willingness to shorten his break to join the preparatory sessions at Milanello, although this might not be strictly necessary. He is expected to commence training under coach Allegri from August 4th. During this period, the main squad will be on an Eastern tour. Upon Modric`s integration into team training, his official presentation to the media and fans will take place.
His Expected Role
Coach Allegri will task Luka with enhancing the quality of the midfield—a straightforward challenge for a player of his caliber—and serving as a powerful role model within the dressing room. AC Milan has not featured a (former) Ballon d`Or winner in its squad since Kaká`s departure in 2014. It remains to be seen whether Modric will consistently feature in the starting XI for Milan or if, as occasionally occurred during his time at Madrid, he will alternate between starting and entering as a second-half substitute. For now, this detail holds minimal importance. What truly matters to Milanisti is witnessing his signature on a club document, seeing his photos donning the Rossoneri jersey, and being met with his broad, radiant smile.
