GdS: Minutes, running, dedication – three elements of Modric that have inspired Milan

When AC Milan signed Luka Modric, there were a few who doubted whether he could be good for the Rossoneri. Those doubts are long gone.

Everyone knows the quality of Modric, but whether he was up to the level he once was was in doubt. After all, the midfielder was turning 40 this season, and even with fewer games to play, whether he could compete at the highest level still remained to be seen.

As Gazzetta dello Sport (seen below) write, though, the Croatian midfielder is hiding any signs of ageing and looks like a 20-year-old. Physically, he is holding up, and the medical stats indicate this, with him looking like a young man.

He has already stated that he has love for the game, which has kept him determined to remain at the top. Whilst his contract expires at the end of this season, it would be silly not to consider already thinking about an extension.

Increased minutes

His performances are impressive for several reasons. In his last three seasons in Spain, his numbers have continued to be at a considerable amount. From 1,744 in the 2022-23 season to almost 3,000 in all competitions last season.

Modric is not only holding up, but excelling, and this is why, even with a lower amount of work this year, he is able to look bright. In the league, he has already played 425 minutes, whilst the 25 minutes in the Coppa Italia further add evidence to his longevity.

Rather than slowing down, the Croatian is becoming more important.

More running

The winner against Bologna or the assist for Ruben Loftus-Cheek against Lecce, Modric brings the beauty, definitely. There are several elements to his game, at least technically, which have not changed at all.

Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images

However, there is also substance to his game. He has made 10 interceptions and recovered the ball 31 times, numbers that put him at the top of the league. Against Napoli, he had the final touch to round off a stellar performance with 11km covered, the second most behind Adrien Rabiot.

Proof that he is ageing like a fine wine.

Immense dedication

To look to others also born in 1985, Modric has surpassed Antonio Nocerino, who retired in 2018, and Riccardo Montolivo. Not to discredit them, but rather to show how incredible Modric’s situation really is.

At 40 years old, he is probably the best player for the Diavolo, perhaps even in Italy. Physically and technically, it is being proven.