Luka Modrić to Wear Number 14 at AC Milan — A Nod to His Past and His Former Coach

⚽ Introduction: A New Chapter Begins

After 13 legendary seasons with Real Madrid, Luka Modrić has officially joined AC Milan, marking a bold new chapter in his career at age 39. The Croatian midfield maestro, known for his elegance, vision, and leadership, arrives in Milan with a clear mission: to inspire, compete, and elevate the Rossoneri back to European prominence

Modrić’s decision to wear No. 14 is a tribute to:

• His early career at Tottenham Hotspur, where he wore the same number
• His time with the Croatian national team, where No. 14 was his breakout identity
• His admiration for Carlo Ancelotti, who wore No. 14 during his playing days at Milan

From No. 10 to No. 14

 

At Real Madrid, Modrić wore the iconic No. 10 shirt. But with Rafael Leão currently wearing No. 10 at Milan, Modrić opted for a number that reflects his roots and respect for club history

 A Tribute to Carlo Ancelotti

Modrić played under Carlo Ancelotti during two managerial stints at Real Madrid. Choosing No. 14 is a subtle nod to the coach who helped shape his tactical maturity and leadership

 Modrić’s Statement

“I took number 14 because I like it. I also wore it for the national team and at the start of my career, including at Tottenham. I brought it with me, and I hope it will perform well here too.”

Milan’s Official Announcement

Here’s what’s official about Luka Modrić’s move to AC Milan:

• AC Milan Official Statement: On 14 July 2025, AC Milan confirmed that Luka Modrić has signed a contract valid until 30 June 2026, with an option to extend for one more year until 30 June 2027 OneFootball+15AC Milan+15Milanreports.com+15. He will wear jersey number 14 for the Rossoneri OneFootball+7AC Milan+7Pamfleti+7.

• Departure from Real Madrid: After a trophy-studded 13-year tenure with Real Madrid, Modrić left the club following his participation in the Club World Cup, and then formally signed for Milan 101GREATGOALS.COM+13Wikipedia+13Gazeta Express+13.

• Coach Confirmation: Newly appointed manager Massimiliano Allegri confirmed that Modrić would arrive in August, highlighting the signing as part of a broader squad rebuild ahead of the 2025–26 campaign OneFootball+12Reuters+12ESPN.com+12.

• Presentation to Fans: Modrić was officially unveiled on 4 August 2025, during a press conference and fan event at Milan’s flagship store on Via Dante. He greeted supporters, threw his jersey into the crowd, and signed autographs among cheers from a packed street OneFootball+2Yahoo Sports+2.

• Contract & Role: He is reported to earn around €3 million–€3.5 million net per season, aiming to bring leadership and experience to a Milan side that finished eighth last term and missed out on European qualification Mundo Deportivo+5Football Transfers+5ESPN.com+5.

• Personal Statements: In his first Milan interview, Modrić reflected on his childhood admiration for AC Milan and Zvonimir Boban, calling it a dream move. He’s committed to helping the club regain its elite status and compete for titles—not just Champions League qualification

Social Media Buzz

Modrić’s jersey reveal has gone viral on:

• Facebook
• Instagram

Legacy of No. 14 at Milan

While AC Milan’s iconic numbers—like No. 3 (Maldini) and No. 10 (Rui Costa, Seedorf, now Leão)—often steal the spotlight, No. 14 carries a more understated but meaningful legacy.

for milam:

• Mattia De Sciglio (2011–2017): A versatile full-back who came through Milan’s youth ranks
• Bakaye Traoré (2012–2014): A short-lived midfield stint
• Andrea Bertolacci (2015–2019): A promising talent who never fully delivered

Past Milan legends who wore No. 14 include:

• Carlo Ancelotti
• Massimo Ambrosini Modrić joins an elite lineage.

Tactical Role Under Allegri

Modrić will play as:

• A deep-lying playmaker
• A midfield anchor in a 4-3-3
• A mentor to Milan’s young midfielders

Leadership and Experience

At 39, Modrić brings:

• 6 Champions League titles
• 2018 Ballon d’Or
• 188 caps for Croatia

Serie A Impact

His arrival boosts:

• Milan’s midfield depth
• Serie A’s global appeal
• Youth development through mentorship

 Shirt Launch Strategy

Milan will unveil their 2025/26 kits featuring Modrić’s No. 14 jersey in a special event at San Siro

Merchandise Surge

Modrić’s jersey is expected to be a top seller, with fans eager to own a piece of football history

Marketing Potential

Brands like Puma, Emirates, and EA Sports are leveraging Modrić’s arrival in their campaigns

Fantasy Football Buzz

Luka Modrić’s move to AC Milan has stirred up fantasy football chatter, especially among managers who value tactical consistency and midfield control. While he may not rack up goals or assists like younger playmakers, Modrić offers underrated fantasy value in formats that reward:

• Pass completion
• Key passes
• Minutes played
• Leadership impac

Youth Inspiration

His move inspires young players across Europe, proving that age is no barrier to elite performance

 Milan’s Midfield Evolution

Modrić joins a midfield featuring:

• Ismaël Bennacer
• Yunus Musah
• Tijjani Reijnders

International Recognition

CAF and FIFA have praised Milan’s ambition and Modrić’s enduring excellence

What’s Next?

Modrić will debut in Milan’s friendly against Olympique Lyonnais, wearing No. 14 for the first time

 Own the Legacy

Celebrate Luka Modrić’s Milan debut with official No. 14 merchandise! Shop Jerseys, Scarves & Collectibles Every purchase supports youth football, stadium upgrades, and fan engagement. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for exclusive updates and offers!

Final Thoughts

Luka Modrić’s choice of No. 14 at AC Milan is more than a shirt number—it’s a tribute to his journey, his mentors, and his enduring legacy. As he begins this new chapter, fans across the world are ready to witness greatness in red and black.