Since arriving on a free transfer in 2025, the Croatian midfielder, now 40, has started every one of Milan's 11 Serie A matches to date, clocking up 965 league minutes.
According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, he has handled the workload "without particular stress" and now sits on 989 minutes overall for the club, including 24 minutes as a substitute in Coppa Italia.
It is not just his reliability that has impressed, Modric's influence is being felt deep in the squad. With younger teammates, such as Samuele Ricci and Ardon Jashari, view him as a "model of application," with Ricci publicly expressing awe at his professionalism.
Milan's attacking stars have also felt the ripple effect: reports indicate that playing alongside Modric has elevated the team's overall work rate, with the Croatian driving unity amid an injury-hit season.
Milan are already considering activating the one-year extension option in his contract, which would tie him to the club through June 2027.
The decision, however, ultimately lies with Modric: sources say it will come in the spring, once both parties have evaluated his form, fitness, and off-field life in Milan.
His path forward isn't simple. While he remains central in Milan's plans, agents in the Gulf are also circling, reports link him with clubs in Qatar and Saudi Arabia.
Modric is said to value more than money: his family's comfort, his workload, and his energy for both Milan and the Croatian national team are all factors.
Reflecting on his return to Italy, Modric said after signing: "Very happy to be here to start a new chapter in my career."
He also insisted that Milan must aim high: "Milan can't be satisfied with mediocrity; we need to set ourselves the highest possible goals: winning titles and competing with the best."
At 40, most players fade. Modric is doing the opposite, driving Milan forward, mentoring the next generation, and forcing the club to decide: is he just a short-term marquee signing, or the cornerstone of their future?
