Croatian captain Luka Modric, in a major interview with Gazzetta dello Sport, revealed what motivated him most to extend his loyalty to the San Siro club, admitted his disappointment with last season, and announced his fight for trophies.
Luka Modric, captain of the Croatian national football team and midfielder for AC Milan, has decided to extend his stay with the 'Rossoneri'. In a candid conversation with the Italian sports newspaper Gazzetta dello Sport, published on August 5, 2026, he revealed the key reasons behind his decision, as well as his undisguised disappointment with the end of the previous season.
Modric emphasized that the feeling of belonging and support was the main driving force. "Above all, I stayed because I felt great here. The club and the fans gave me a lot of love and support, and that was the main reason for my decision. I felt how much Milan wanted me, and that is exactly what every footballer dreams of," the Croatian captain stated for Gazzetta dello Sport.
He stressed that the decision was not made overnight but that he carefully weighed his own capabilities. "In my head, I always had the desire to stay for one more season, but I didn't want to rush. I had to listen to my body and see if I still had the same passion, desire, and motivation. Once I realized I did, and the club once again showed me how much they count on me, there was no more doubt," he explained.
Last season ended without Champions League qualification for AC Milan, which deeply affected the Croatian midfielder. "It hit me hard. I'm sorry that due to injury I couldn't help the team in the most important matches. That's exactly why I want this season to be different. We must learn from the mistakes we made and bring Milan back where they belong," Modric said.
Although he is in the later stages of his career, Modric's ambition has not diminished in the slightest. His focus remains solely on winning. "I came here to win trophies, and that dream hasn't changed. I want to win something with Milan. I'm not just interested in playing or enjoying football; I want to win. That's why I'm here," he said determinedly.
In an emotional part of the interview, Modric also reflected on the passing of club legend Franco Baresi, whom he adored as a boy. "Baresi was a symbol of Milan and one of my role models. It would be wonderful to win a trophy and dedicate it to him. That would be the best way to honor his legacy," the Croatian midfielder concluded.
