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Hand over the baton! The Legend of Modric is in Leal, and the stage of San Siro has lit up a new spotlight for him

7:35am, 12 July 2025【Football】

After ending the Club World Cup journey, Modric's Real Madrid career officially ended. After returning to Madrid, Modric gave his jersey to Guerre, which can be regarded as the handover between a legend and the future.

Modric's transfer to AC Milan has been officially finalized, and the news was confirmed by transfer expert Romano with the iconic "Here we go". The Croatian midfielder signed a one-year contract with the Ross and Blacks, which will officially arrive after the end of the Club World Cup, and the contract will be valid until June 2026. At the same time, his "last dance" at Real Madrid ended with a 0-4 loss to Paris Saint-Germain's semi-finals, which also ended in his 13-year white-clothed career.

After Real Madrid ended its journey to this Club World Cup, Modric's White Legion career also ended. In an interview, Modric said that his most unforgettable moment will always be Real Madrid's tenth Champions League, and the dynasty will begin from there. "It's been a long and unforgettable journey. This is my home, Madrid is my second home, and I need time to experience the achievements I have made here. Real Madrid has given me everything, I will be grateful for my life, and I will always be a Real Madrid fan."

Modric joined AC Milan as a free agent, with the contract containing 1 year basic terms and triggerable renewal options. Although Saudi Arabia and the major leagues have offered high-paying offers, he chose to stay in the top European leagues, with a goal of directly targeting the 2026 World Cup: by then he will compete for the fifth time at the age of 40.

Milan's new coach Allegri sees it as a key puzzle for midfield reconstruction, hoping to use his experience to enhance the team's control. It is revealed that Milan provided Modric with an annual salary of about £3 million, which is not as good as he is at Real Madrid, but it is enough to reflect the club's recognition of its tactical value.

In the semi-finals of the Club World Cup in the early morning of July 10, Modric made a substitute in the 64th minute, completing his last appearance for Real Madrid's eighth. Although the team lost 0-4, his appearance instantly set a record for the oldest player in Real Madrid's official game at the age of 39 years and 303 days. According to statistics, he made 597 appearances for Real Madrid, contributed 43 goals and 95 assists, and won 28 championship trophys with the team, including 6 Champions League, 6 Club World Cups and 4 La Liga titles 6. After the game, Real Madrid goalkeeper Courtois said emotionally: "He is a great player and teammate, and we will always miss him."

AC Milan ranked only eighth in Serie A this season and failed to qualify for the European competition. Signing Modric is regarded as a key step in rebuilding the midfield. Allegri plans to use him as the center of the midfield, using his passing vision and game reading ability to connect offense and defense. Although Milan's current lineup aging problem is prominent, Modric's joining is expected to enhance the team's stability in strong dialogues. In addition, Milan may further strengthen the lineup by selling some players (such as Tonali).

Milan fans look forward to him becoming a key figure in the team's revival like Kaka and Pirlo back then. When the legend bid farewell to the Bernabeu, the stage of San Siro has lit up a new spotlight for him.