Watch: Modric makes Milan debut vs. Chelsea – emotional shin pad routine continues

Luka Modric made his AC Milan debut against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge in Sunday’s friendly, realising a dream in the process.

Having been originally tipped to start the game in west London, Modric came off the bench in the second half instead to replace Samuele Ricci, and he certainly made a good initial impression despite difficult circumstances.

He got a 6 in our player ratings, with the following assessment: “Considering just how comfortable he is in possession, it helped to have him on the pitch as he attracted the opponents and opened up space for his teammates. The passing was also decent and he made sure to make himself available.”

On their TikTok account, Milan shared some videos of Modric’s Milan curtain-raiser, including the moment he came on and his first exchange with the travelling fans just before that as he warmed up.

They also showed that the Croatian has continued his pre-game ritual in which he kisses a shin pad which has a picture of his family on. There is plenty more to come from Luka, with the start of the season just six days away.