Luka Modric believes AC Milan carry the same standing in world football as his former club Real Madrid.
The Croatia midfielder, who spent 13 years at Real Madrid before moving to AC Milan, has compared the status of the two clubs and says the Italian side belongs at the same level as the Spanish giants.
Modric played for Real Madrid from 2012 until 2025, establishing himself at one of the most prominent clubs in the game before beginning the next stage of his career with the Rossoneri.
His assessment places AC Milan alongside Real Madrid in terms of reputation and stature within football. The Croatian’s view comes from extensive experience at the highest level, having represented both clubs during a career that has included major individual recognition.
Modric will turn 41 in September. Despite his age, he extended his AC Milan contract this summer, with the new agreement running until the end of the 2026-27 season.
The midfielder won the Ballon d’Or in 2018, further underlining the standing he achieved during his time with Real Madrid. His move to AC Milan followed his long spell in Spain, which began in 2012 and ended in 2025.
The comparison between the clubs is significant because Real Madrid was Modric’s previous home for more than a decade, while AC Milan is now the club with which he is contracted. His comments therefore offer a direct assessment of the two institutions from a player who has been part of both.
For Modric, the difference in sporting status between the clubs is not as wide as it might be perceived. He considers AC Milan to be comparable with Real Madrid, despite the clubs belonging to different domestic leagues.
The Croatian’s contract extension means he is due to remain with AC Milan through the conclusion of the 2026-27 campaign. It will take his association with the club beyond his initial move from Real Madrid and into the period around his 41st birthday in September.
Modric’s career at Real Madrid lasted from 2012 to 2025, while his current commitment keeps him at AC Milan until the end of the 2026-27 season. Across that period, his reputation has been shaped by both his club career and his 2018 Ballon d’Or success.
His message is clear: in terms of their place in the football world, AC Milan and Real Madrid should be regarded as equals.