Luka Modrić shines on his debut for Milan after leaving Real Madrid
Luka Modrić, a Real Madrid icon, made his official debut for AC Milan and quickly impressed fans with a commanding performance in the Coppa Italia. The 39-year-old midfielder came off the bench in Sunday’s 2-0 win over Bari and showed he still has plenty to offer at the elite level.
Strong Debut Performance
Wearing Milan’s number 14 shirt, Modrić entered in the second half and played 25 minutes. Despite limited time on the pitch, he stood out with 41 touches, 88% pass accuracy, one chance created, two long balls, a successful dribble, and a defensive tackle. His efforts earned him a 7.4 match rating, the fourth-best among Milan players.
Fans quickly praised his ease on the ball, with one comment going viral: “He plays easily.” Expectations are now high that the Croatian will become a key figure for Stefano Pioli’s side this season.
Why He Left Real Madrid
Modrić departed Real Madrid after the club opted not to renew his contract. Head coach Xabi Alonso is prioritizing younger talents such as Arda Güler, who has become a starter. With competition for minutes fierce, Madrid could not guarantee Modrić the role he desired.
Determined to remain at the top level ahead of the 2026 World Cup, Modrić turned down lucrative offers from outside Europe in favor of Serie A and AC Milan.
Madrid Still Searching for His Heir
At the Santiago Bernabéu, Modrić’s absence has left a noticeable gap. Reports suggest Alonso and club president Florentino Pérez are already targeting names such as Rodri, Vitinha, Alexis Mac Allister, and Enzo Fernández as long-term replacements.
Pérez has privately promised that, if necessary, Madrid will bring in a world-class midfielder in 2026, with Rodri considered the top priority.
Luka Modric já abençoa San Siro.pic.twitter.com/ozjuxklSCI
— Leonardo Bertozzi (@lbertozzi) August 18, 2025
A New Chapter in Italy
For Milan, Modrić represents both experience and leadership in a squad mixing youth and established stars. With a winning debut behind him, fans and analysts alike are eager to see how the Croatian maestro adapts to Serie A and whether he can guide the Rossoneri to domestic and European success.
