Luka Modric has turned 40 but shows no signs of slowing down. The Croatian icon, fresh from a summer free transfer to AC Milan after his Real Madrid exit, silenced doubts with a five-word message that underlines his hunger to keep playing at the highest level.
There really is no stopping Luka Modric. The former Real Madrid and Tottenham midfielder has hit the milestone age of 40, yet he remains determined to extend his legendary career. Having just signed for AC Milan on a free transfer, the Croatian icon looks set to continue competing at the very top.
What Happened?
Modric, often hailed as football’s “Peter Pan,” refuses to slow down or consider retirement. The 2018 Ballon d’Or winner spent over a decade at the heart of Real Madrid’s midfield, amassing a trophy cabinet that includes six Champions League titles, four La Liga crowns, six Club World Cups and countless individual honours.
On his birthday, Modric delivered a simple but powerful message to his critics and admirers alike. Taking to X (formerly Twitter), he wrote: “Age is just a number.”
The Bigger Picture
Very few players reach 40 and continue at elite level clubs, but Modric is no ordinary footballer. His decision to join AC Milan adds another exciting chapter to a career that already includes Champions League dominance with Real Madrid and a World Cup final appearance with Croatia in 2018—where he also won the Golden Ball as the tournament’s best player.
For Milan, his arrival represents both experience and quality, adding depth to a side hungry for domestic and European success.
What’s Next for Modric?
Modric has shown no sign of winding down, and his new challenge in Serie A could extend his remarkable career even further. The former Tottenham playmaker looks set to feature for AC Milan well into his forties, though the question of when he’ll eventually hang up his boots remains unanswered.
