Modric explains Milan move from Real Madrid and squad number decision | OneFootball

Modric explains Milan move from Real Madrid and squad number decision | OneFootball

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·16 de julho de 2025

Modric explains Milan move from Real Madrid and squad number decision

Imagem do artigo:Modric explains Milan move from Real Madrid and squad number decision

Luka Modric reveals that he was impressed by Igli Tare’s trip to Croatia, during which the Milan director explained the project to him and why he chose the No. 14 at San Siro.

Modric joined Milan on a free transfer after the end of his contract with Real Madrid. The legendary midfielder has signed a one-year contract at San Siro.


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There’s a picture showing Modric as a kid wearing a Milan shirt, so that was the starting point of his first official interview with the club’s official website.

“That photo looks amazing. I used to watch a lot of the Italian league growing up, and Milan were my favorite team,” Modric said.

“At the time, we in Croatia followed Milan a lot because they were one of the most popular clubs in the world and also because there was Boban, who was my idol. Now I’m very happy to be here and I’m looking forward to this new adventure.”

Modric explains why he joined Milan

Imagem do artigo:Modric explains Milan move from Real Madrid and squad number decision

Luka Modric is officially a new Milan player

Why did he pick Milan?

“I wanted to stay in Europe to continue playing competitive football. I had other offers, but when Milan showed up, it was clear to me,” Modric replied.

“I was up for it from the first moment. I was also impressed by the fact that sporting director Tare came to Croatia to present the Milan project to me. It was important to show how much they wanted me. Milan are one of the biggest clubs in Europe. Milan can’t be satisfied with average; we need to set ourselves the highest possible goals: winning titles and competing with the best teams in the world. That’s why I’m here.”

What will be his approach in entering the Rossoneri dressing room?

“First of all, I come with a lot of respect for everyone: players, coaches, and the club in general,” he said.

“I want to bring there is to win, to help my teammates in every aspect, and work hard to earn my place in the team. Nothing comes easy in life; you have to work hard and fight.”

What’s his view on Serie A?

“I watched Italian football a lot, especially last year. It’s a very competitive league, growing up again. Primarily, there are many Croatian players playing in Italy, and I always enjoy following my national teammates. There are great teams, good players. It’s a very tactical and physical league.”

The 39-year-old has won the Champions League six times at Real Madrid, among other trophies, and reached the World Cup Final in 2018. What’s the secret behind his longevity?

“I always say that the most important thing for me is love: love for the game and football,” he replied.

“This is what I still have and what pushes me. Working hard, preparing yourself to be at the top, the best. Living a healthy life with the family. There’s no secret; there are many aspects. The way I see it, is passion and love for football

“Then there’s also the fact of working hard, preparing to be at my best, and living a healthy life. There are no big secrets, but for me, what matters most is passion and love for football.”

Modric explains Milan squad number decision

Imagem do artigo:Modric explains Milan move from Real Madrid and squad number decision

MADRID, SPAIN – APRIL 21: Luka Modrić poses at the Laureus World Sports Awards Madrid 2025 at Galería de Cristal on April 21, 2025 in Madrid, Spain. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images for Laureus)

The Croatia international also explained why he picked the squad No.14 at San Siro.

“I like this number. I know that in Milan, the No. 10 is taken by a great player like Leao,” he said.

“He [Leao] is the present and the future of Milan. Since the number 10 wasn’t available, I had to choose another one. I wore number 14 because I liked it. I also wore it for the national team at the beginning of my career and for Tottenham. It went well with this number, and hopefully the same happens here.

“I’ve achieved so many goals, more than I ever expected. I’m happy and thankful for what I’ve accomplished. I’m never satisfied; I always want more, especially professionally. When you win, you always want to repeat it. That’s why I still have the desire and hunger to win.

“Outside football, I’ve achieved everything. I have a beautiful family, a wife, and three kids. That’s the most important thing to me; I don’t need anything else.

“With my wife, I just want to pass on important values to my children: to be respectful and humble, like my parents taught me and my sisters. That’s what I have, and I’m very happy and grateful for it.”

Last but not least, Modric sent a message to Milan fans.

“I’m really happy to be at a great club like Milan. I look forward to seeing everyone at San Siro,” he concluded.

“Hopefully, we will make you happy and give you a lot of great moments this year to make you proud of celebrating victories together. Forza Milan!”

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