Luka Modric says Milan are “at the same level” as Real Madrid after deciding to remain with the Italian club, despite the disappointment of last season’s collapse.
The Croatia midfielder told Milan TV, via MilanNews, that he had never seriously considered leaving after suffering an injury against Juventus towards the end of the campaign.
“I never thought it would be my last game with Milan. Deep down, I knew I wanted to continue, but at the same time, I had to check other things that would allow me to do so. Now I’m here and I’m very happy to be back.”
Milan’s home defeat by Cagliari brought their title challenge to a painful conclusion. Modric said it took a World Cup campaign with Croatia for him to fully come to terms with what had happened.
Despite that setback, the club’s approach during the summer persuaded him that extending his time at Milan was the right decision. The Rossoneri built their plans around Ruben Amorim and strengthened their squad with significant attacking additions.
The club’s total spending was expected to reach about €150m once Diego Moreira’s move from Strasbourg was finalised.
Modric said Milan’s faith in him, along with the direction of the new project, played a decisive role in his decision to stay.
“Milan showed how much they cared about me and the fact that I was part of this new project: it was what I needed, what I wanted to hear. I talked to my family about it and decided to stay.”
The midfielder, who previously spent 12 years at Real Madrid, was also asked to compare the two clubs. He praised the size and character of Milan, saying that his experience at the club had confirmed its standing in world football.
“I played for the biggest club in the world, Real Madrid, but I feel like Milan is at the same level. Those who talk about Milan do so differently than other clubs. And when you come here, you understand why: it’s one of the top clubs in the world, the people who work there make it great, the fans.”
Modric also used his interview to address Milan’s supporters directly as the club prepares for the new season.
“I want to thank everyone for their support since I arrived. What I ask of the fans is to stay with us and support our project. I can promise that we will truly give everything our fans deserve: we hope they are proud of us. We need them to have a great season.”
The Croatian said he was pleased to be back with Milan after the injury and made clear that his commitment to the club had remained strong even during the difficult final stages of the previous campaign.