In an ideal world, AC Milan will extend Luka Modric’s contract next season, given they have the option to do so in his deal already, but it is not that simple.
When Modric joined Milan, an insurance clause was inserted, where the Rossoneri would have the option of an extra year if all parties wanted to continue together. Within his first few games at the club, that option was being considered.
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However, the caveat has always been whether all parties want the same thing. No one is unhappy with the situation, but with Modric only getting older, his desire will be the most important thing.
Modric’s future remains uncertain
With the World Cup in the summer, that is the Croatian’s focus past this season. However, a decision about next season could be made before he heads to North America. Today, Matteo Moretto has given an update on Fabrizio Romano’s YouTube, via MilanNews.
“Luka Modric’s contract expires in June. There’s an option to extend, plus one, but it’s up to the player. Luka Modric will decide around April-May, as the season progresses. He wants to focus on the present; he wants to get as many wins as possible with Milan and then calmly decide on his future.
“He wants to perform at his best at the World Cup and then decide what his future will be. It takes time; we need to understand what the boy really wants towards the end of the season.”
Of course it’s uncertain, he is exceeding the expectations of even his biggest fans. However he is 40yo. IMO his last match will be in the world cup – best place to end his career.
Not that he can’t play for another season or two, given his current performances, but there’s no reason to keep going until he diminishes physically to a degree of becoming a substitute player with 10 mins in his feet.
My bet is he will transition immediately to a coaching position, probably in RM juniors or something like that.
“Not that he can’t play for another season or two, given his current performances, but there’s no reason to keep going until he diminishes physically to a degree of becoming a substitute player with 10 mins in his feet. ”
LOL. He’s far from becoming a substitute in this Milan squad. And you underestimate his passion for football. He lives for it.
I think he will extend if a few conditions are met, if Milan finish strong showing they’re able to compete, currently we are, if he can still play at a high level, which he currently is and if no major injury happens to him. He still has the love for football, no injuries, and plays with a group that’s like family I think he stays at least one more season
I know that many on this board laugh when talk of adding midfield help is brought up. We are strong in the midfield without being in European Competition. However, I think Modric’s decision to stay or go will be based upon his view of how supportive the club will be about adding players that can spell him throughout all the games the Rossoneri will have to play next season. Does he view Ricci and Jashari as adequate replacements to sub for him and still win? He’s not going to renew, only to have the team embarrassed in games against top flight competition. At this point, it’s probably less about money and more about legacy.
I think it was important for Luka to spend the pre-WC year at a relevant club. As far as after the WC, he has nothing else left to prove or play for. It would make sense for him to return to Croatia.
Also, Jashari needs to evolve more as his form has been visibly improving. He can become a pivotal player a lot faster the more he plays. A second season in Luka’s shadow would be a hard sell.
It would be cool to see him finish at Dinamo Zagreb