Serie A – Italian League
Luka Modric is drawing closer to continuing his time with AC Milan at the age of 41. The Croatian midfielder, sidelined for the remainder of the season due to an operation, is out of contract in June.
Modric, with the ball during a match for AC Milan. He suffered a fractured cheekbone after an accidental collision with Manuel Locatelli in the game against Juventus and left the field in the 79th minute with an ice pack on his face. The injury required surgery last Monday.
Modric’s current contract with the Rossoneri runs until next June, meaning that if it is not renewed, he will not play again for the Italian side. However, according to *La Gazzetta dello Sport*, the Croatian could sign an extension and continue for another campaign. If so, he would play in Serie A next season at the age of 41.
Several factors could help Luka remain at Milan. On one hand, he feels the affection of the club and the fans. On the other, the continuity of coach Allegri, who has given him a key role on the pitch and with whom he maintains a strong relationship, along with the possibility of playing in the Champions League with Milan — something he desires — are also compelling reasons to stay.
“I think Modric will stay with us for one more season,” said Igli Tare, AC Milan’s sporting director, speaking on DAZN.
According to *La Gazzetta dello Sport*, “for Luka to renew, he only needs to say ‘I do.'” The club’s willingness to keep him for another season is complete. Moreover, the Italian newspaper reports that there is a clause allowing Milan to extend the contract by one more year, though the club will not do so without Modric’s approval.
Decision after the fifth World Cup
Meanwhile, the Croatian Football Federation expects Luka to recover from his cheekbone operation in time for the next World Cup this summer.
“We are in constant contact with AC Milan’s medical staff and will closely monitor his recovery progress. Based on previous experience with similar injuries, we believe the captain will be ready to compete in the upcoming World Cup,” said Tomislav Vlahovic, the national team’s doctor.
Modric could thus play in his fifth World Cup. According to *La Gazzetta*, it will be after that tournament that the player will decide, based on his physical condition during the World Cup, whether to continue for another season at AC Milan.