Luka Modric will sign a new one-year contract extension with AC Milan and retire from international football this October, according to reports from Gazzetta dello Sport. The 40-year-old midfielder has informed Croatia manager Slaven Bilic of his decision to step down from national team duties, with his final appearance scheduled for October 6 against Spain in a Nations League clash in Split.
Modric's choice to extend his stay at the San Siro marks a decisive moment in his career. After joining Milan on a free transfer in 2025, the veteran wants to dedicate his final season entirely to pursuing silverware with the Italian giants. Having missed Champions League football this season and experienced World Cup disappointment following Croatia's round-of-32 exit to Portugal, Modric believes stepping away from international commitments will allow him to preserve his energy and focus on delivering trophies for Milan under manager Ruben Amorim.
A Legendary Career Winding Down
The midfielder's decision to retire from international duty represents the end of an era for one of football's greatest midfielders. During his 16-year spell at Real Madrid, Modric won six Champions League titles, four La Liga crowns, and five UEFA Super Cups. His individual accolades include the 2018 Ballon d'Or and Best FIFA Men's Player award, cementing his status as a generational talent who transformed football's midfield landscape.
Modric's journey to elite football began at Dinamo Zagreb before Tottenham Hotspur signed him for €22.5 million in 2008. His move to Real Madrid four years later for €35 million proved transformative, establishing him as the orchestrator of one of sport's most dominant teams. He also won three Croatian league titles early in his career, underlining his consistency across different levels of competition.
Final Chapter at Milan
Milan's hierarchy has been eager to finalize the extension paperwork, with an official announcement expected in the coming days. Modric is currently on holiday but has signalled his clear intention to remain in Italy for the upcoming campaign. The midfielder will soon travel to Australia to join pre-season training, giving Amorim crucial time to integrate him into tactical preparations ahead of the domestic season.
By choosing to close his international chapter, Modric hopes to maximize his impact at club level during what promises to be a defining swansong. With Milan targeting Champions League qualification and domestic silverware, the veteran's experience and trophy-winning mentality could prove invaluable as Amorim builds his project at the San Siro.
