Modric proving age is just a number as Milan maestro rolls back the years
The Croatian legend continues to defy Father Time in Serie A, showing Real Madrid what they're missing with his incredible fitness record and all-action displays.
At 40, Luka Modric remains indefatigable - playing virtually every minute for AC Milan while showcasing the class and consistency that made him a Real Madrid icon.
Milan’s Iron Man
Remember when Modric joked about needing “a Croatian in the team to win Champions League”? The six-time European Cup winner with Real Madrid wasn’t wrong, and his durability remains absolutely mental. While his former club struggles with an injury crisis across all positions, Modric hasn’t missed a beat in Italy’s physically demanding league.
The numbers are proper impressive for a bloke who should be putting his plates up:
- Third-most minutes in Serie A (1,826) behind only Saelemaekers and Gabbia
- Completed 90 minutes in all but two of Milan’s 26 matches across all competitions
- Averages 83 minutes per match
- Second-most ball recoveries in Serie A (121) - in a league known for its physicality!
Complete Midfielder
While Madrid’s treatment room resembles the Northern Line at rush hour, Modric continues showing why he’s the dog’s bollocks in midfield:
- Leads Milan in successful passes (1,245)
- Best at intercepting passes (29)
- Second in winning duels (67)
- Second in assists (3)
He’s up and down the pitch like a frog in a sock, setting an example for Milan’s youngsters with his work ethic and professionalism. As Italian legend Luca Toni perfectly put it: “Modric is the best signing of 2025 because he’s brought quality. With these youngsters, Modric plays with a cigarette in his mouth.”
What Next?
The Croatian hasn’t yet renewed his contract, though Milan have already tabled an offer hoping to keep him at least until after what’s expected to be his final World Cup.
While his former club Madrid continues battling an injury crisis, Modric is steering Milan into a genuine title race with city rivals Inter - a dramatic improvement from last season’s eighth-place finish that left them outside European competition altogether.
One thing’s certain - if you need someone in the trenches, you could do much worse than a 40-year-old Croatian who plays like he’s still in his prime.