Luka Modric has reportedly informed AC Milan’s management that he wishes to leave the club after only one season. This news comes from Italian sports daily Tuttosport.
The Croatian star has reportedly decided against extending his contract and will leave the club after just a year. Modric joined Milan twelve months ago with the mission of leading the team back to the Champions League, a goal that dramatically failed on the final day of Serie A. Since then, chaos has reigned at Milan, with coach Max Allegri already having been dismissed.
Now, Modric has reportedly made it unequivocally clear that he is leaving. The former Real Madrid midfielder is said to have told the club, according to Tuttosport, «I want to end my time at Milan.»
The decisive factor for Modric’s decision, should it be confirmed, is what has transpired since Sunday evening. Following their home defeat against Cagliari, AC Milan missed out on qualification for the next Champions League. Since then, an «earthquake» has shaken the club’s leadership. RedBird has dismissed not only Massimiliano Allegri but also Sporting Director Tare, Technical Director Moncada, and CEO Furlani.
Modric’s Stay at Milan Was Expected Before the Match
Prior to the crucial match, everyone had assumed Modric would remain at Milan. The now former Sporting Director, Igli Tare, had repeatedly expressed optimism about Modric’s stay. «I believe he will stay in the end,» he told DAZN on Sunday before the Cagliari game. «He is a fan of Milan, he cares deeply about this team and this club, he is very attached to this environment. I am convinced that his decision will be ‘yes’ in the end.»
AC Milan: Rafael Leao and Rabiot Also Uncertain
While fans await the official announcement regarding Modric’s future, dark clouds are gathering over Milanello, affecting AC Milan on all levels: leadership, coaching staff, and the squad. Who will stay for 2024/2025? Turkish clubs are reportedly pursuing Rafael Leao, and Maignan and Rabiot are also valuable assets. Without Champions League football, the squad for 2026/2027 is in jeopardy. The club has carelessly let slip a match they could not afford to lose.