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Luka Modric is expected to play from start for AC Milan against Cremonese tonight, thus making his full debut, and it’s a dream scenario in many ways.
Reports from earlier this week suggested that Samuele Ricci would get the chance from start in the holding midfield role, following a strong pre-season. However, as per the newspaper this morning, Modric will get the nod from Max Allegri.
As highlighted by MilanNews, when you consider the manager’s words during the presser yesterday, it’s far from surprising that the Croatian has leapfrogged the youngster. With all due respect for the former Torino man, even if he has impressed, Modric is Modric.
Anyone who thought that the midfielder would join Milan to hibernate, or get an easy path to retirement, is wrong. Last season, he had 63 appearances and nearly 3,000 minutes played. These aren’t numbers worthy of a regular starter, but they’re still impressive for a player nearly 40.
Furthermore, in the 25-minute cameo against Bari in the Coppa Italia, we saw glimpses of his class and quality. As long as his physical condition allows it, his presence on the pitch is almost a must, and tonight’s game is a dream scenario with 75k fans expected at the stadium.
Finally, he will get to wear the shirt that he dreamed of wearing so much as a kid. Of course, Milan will have to be careful and monitor the veteran’s physical status closely every week. For now, however, he has responded really well in training and the fans can’t wait to see him shine in Serie A as well.
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