Modric Mulls Milan Extension After Cheekbone Injury
Luka Modric sustained a fractured cheekbone in a collision with Manuel Locatelli during AC Milan's 0-0 Serie A draw with Juventus. The 40-year-old Croatian midfielder faces surgery and will miss the Rossoneri's final four domestic matches. The injury has prompted Modric to weigh extending his contract at San Siro or retiring.
Reports in La Gazzetta dello Sport indicate Modric leans toward activating a one-year extension clause. The former Real Madrid star has logged more minutes this season than in any of his final five campaigns at the Spanish club. He has developed into a key figure in Milan's midfield under manager Massimiliano Allegri, who relies on him to control the game's tempo.
Milan sit within reach of a top-four finish that would secure Champions League football next season. Modric values the chance for one final European campaign at the elite level. His leadership extends off the pitch, where younger teammates regard the Ballon d'Or winner as a mentor and professional role model.
Modric prioritizes recovery for Croatia's 2026 World Cup campaign, potentially his last international tournament. Interest has emerged from Dinamo Zagreb, but he prefers to end his career competing at football's highest level. Milan officials would extend his stay only with his consent, underscoring mutual respect since his arrival.
