At 40, Modric is still transforming Milan.

Luka Modric is not only a notable signing for AC Milan this summer, he has even reshaped the Italian team's playing style.

Luka Modric is a key factor in bringing stability and controlling the tempo for Milan.

Many people once thought Modric was past his prime. He joined the "Rossoneri" in July on a one-year contract (with an option to extend). At 40 years old, many viewed the Modric deal as merely a stopgap measure for Milan, a team that had declined in standing over the past few years.

However, under the guidance of coach Massimiliano Allegri, Modric is transforming AC Milan into a formidable opponent in Serie A this season, and they may even be able to dream of winning the championship.

An impressive start

In the early hours of September 29th, AC Milan secured an emotional 2-1 victory against reigning champions Napoli, thus climbing to the top of the Serie A standings after matchday 5. Modric was undoubtedly one of the brightest stars, showcasing timeless class at the age of 40.

Modric made his Serie A debut on August 23rd in a 1-2 defeat against newly promoted Cremonese, but his performance was still praised. Since then, the 40-year-old Croatian legend has consistently made his mark, with goals and assists helping Milan win consecutive matches.

Modric quickly became a key player, bringing stability and creativity that helped Milan climb to the top of Serie A. Modric played 90 minutes in the 1-0 win against Bologna, scoring his first goal for Milan.

Earlier, in the 2-0 victory against Lecce, Modric was also voted Man of the Match (MVP) with one assist. In the match against Napoli, Modric continued to shine with his midfield control and also received the Man of the Match award.

His statistics since the start of the season have been impressive; not only has he shone in his attacking contributions, but Modric's experience and fighting spirit have also significantly improved Milan's midfield defensive capabilities.

Intelligence instead of strength

Coach Allegri praised Modric after the win against Napoli: "Having him in midfield brings quality, but more importantly, it's Luka's intelligence that matters, as he contributes with his passes. Luka wins challenges by blocking and intercepting, rather than by tackling directly – that's his great value."

Luka Modric, at 40 years old, is not only a symbol of longevity but also the soul of AC Milan.

Allegri emphasized that Modric was key to Milan's balance, especially when playing with ten men (Pervis Estupinan was sent off in the 60th minute) against Napoli. This sounds strange, as many coaches would have to substitute older players like Modric when their team needs to focus on defense.

However, Modric is a major pillar of Milan's defense. Midfielder Adrien Rabiot, Modric's new teammate, expressed his amazement: "Playing with Luka is easy because he controls the tempo. Honestly, I don't understand how he can run for 90 minutes at the age of 40. Luka loves football, he likes defending, attacking – everything."

Antonio Pintus, former Real Madrid fitness coach, explained Modric's secret to his longevity in an interview with La Gazzetta dello Sport: "There's no real secret, but a combination of factors. Luka has extraordinary professionalism: focus on training, nutrition, recovery, and a never-satisfied mindset. It's a rare example of longevity in sports , thanks to daily dedication."

Pintus, who worked with Modric from 2016-2019 under Zidane and 2021-2025 under Ancelotti, emphasized: "The difference between a great player and a superstar lies in their mentality. Luka has the motivation, the endurance, and an unwavering desire to win."

Modric has started in all five Serie A matches this season, accumulating 449 minutes of playing time, scoring one goal and providing one assist. The form of the former Real Madrid star will be a key factor for coach Allegri in rebuilding Milan, and even in his ambition to win the Serie A title in 2025/26.

The "Rossoneri" are leading Serie A after 5 rounds, and with a champion like Modric in the squad, why can't they dream?

Source: https://znews.vn/o-tuoi-40-modric-van-lam-thay-doi-ca-milan-post1589232.html