Luka Modric snubs UEFA Champions League soccer to join Christian Pulisic’s Milan — And Real Madrid fans won’t mind why

What makes Luka Modric’s Milan move even more remarkable? The deal is nearing completion despite the Italian giants’ absence from next season’s UEFA Champions League.

In a summer already filled with high-profile moves, one transfer stands out for its emotional weight as much as its tactical implications. Luka Modric, a symbol of Real Madrid’s golden era, is preparing to embark on a surprising new adventure—with AC Milan. What makes it even more remarkable? The deal is nearing completion despite the Italian giants’ absence from next season’s UEFA Champions League.

According to multiple sources, Modric has accepted a one-year deal with Milan, with the option of a second, reportedly worth around $4.6 million net per season, including bonuses. He is expected to undergo his medical early next week and sign the contract shortly after.

The move is not just about extending a career—it’s about fulfilling a lifelong dream. As Sky Italia put it, “Modric could not resist the temptation of joining the club he has always said he supported since childhood.” The Croatian legend, now 39, grew up admiring the Rossoneri during the golden years of Serie A and finally gets to wear the red and black jersey he’s long loved.

This dream became reality thanks in part to the club’s new sporting director Igli Tare, who personally flew to Croatia and spoke directly with Modric and his national team’s management during their training camp. The mission worked: Modric gave his word, and his representatives were seen at Casa Milan finalizing the deal.

How Milan attracted Modric without Champions League

One key detail behind Modric’s decision came from Spanish outlet Marca, which revealed a surprising twist: the absence of Champions League football at Milan was actually a plus, not a minus. The reason? Emotional loyalty. “Luka does not want to play against Real Madrid due to the emotional bond,” Marca reported.

After 13 glittering years with Los Blancos, where he won everything from La Liga to five Champions League titles, Modric wants to avoid a scenario that would pit him against his old club. Joining Milan, a team not competing in Europe’s elite competition next season, ensures he can honor his Real Madrid past without direct conflict.

For Madrid fans, this decision will be seen as a touching farewell rather than a betrayal. He’s not just moving on—he’s doing it in a way that preserves the sanctity of the badge he once wore.

Timing the arrival

Modric is currently preparing for Croatia’s World Cup qualifiers against Gibraltar and the Czech Republic. According to MilanNews.it, he may receive a special permit to travel for medical tests on Monday, sandwiched between international duties. If not, the signing could happen on Tuesday, but sources confirm the deal is all but sealed.

After the international break, he will conclude his time with Real Madrid at the Club World Cup and, following a short holiday, report to Massimiliano Allegri’s Milan squad.