Davor Suker Drops Bombshell on Modric's Future
Croatian football icon Davor Suker has revealed that Luka Modric is set to return to Real Madrid this summer, bringing a swift end to his single season at AC Milan. The former Real Madrid striker, speaking to Radio Marca, insisted that the Ballon d'Or winner will head back to the Santiago Bernabeu after the 2026 World Cup.
"Now you’ll ask me whether he’ll continue at Milan or return to Madrid. I think something will happen with Real Madrid. Surely, he will return, but I don’t know how. Let’s wait for the end of the World Cup and see what happens,"
Suker’s comments have thrown fresh doubt on Modric’s future, with his current AC Milan contract technically extendable but surrounded by uncertainty following a turbulent season at San Siro.
A Frustrating Campaign in Serie A
Modric joined the Rossoneri last summer on a one-year deal with an option for a further campaign, but the 40-year-old’s arrival coincided with one of AC Milan’s most disappointing seasons in recent memory. The club failed to secure Champions League qualification and sacked manager Massimiliano Allegri midway through the campaign, leaving Modric’s future up in the air.
Despite flashes of his timeless class, the Serie A adventure never truly ignited. Reports from Football Italia suggest AC Milan are prepared to activate their option, but only if Modric agrees to stay — an increasingly unlikely scenario given the club’s downward trajectory and the player’s own reported contemplation of retirement.
What Next for the Croatian Maestro?
Suker’s revelation points to an emotional homecoming at Real Madrid, where Modric spent a glittering decade, winning multiple Champions League titles and a Ballon d’Or. However, the form of his return remains unclear — could it be in a playing capacity, or in an ambassadorial or coaching role? With Jose Mourinho back at the helm and a squad already reinforced by the free transfer of Bernardo Silva, Modric’s on-pitch minutes would be limited, but his influence in the dressing room could be invaluable.
Alternatively, the veteran midfielder might use the World Cup as a fitting stage to bow out, though Suker’s words hint at a definitive chapter back in Spain. For now, all eyes are on Croatia’s campaign in North America, where Modric will once again captain his nation.
Key Takeaways
- Davor Suker says Luka Modric will return to Real Madrid after the World Cup, ending his Milan stint.
- Modric’s season in Serie A was marred by Milan’s failure to qualify for the Champions League and Allegri’s sacking.
- The exact role at Real Madrid is unclear, but the move would extend a legendary association with the Spanish giants.
- Milan have an option to prolong Modric’s contract, but his likely departure forces them to seek midfield reinforcements.
- The 2026 World Cup could be Modric’s final tournament, with retirement still a possibility despite Suker’s claim.
Quick Facts
Luka Modric: 40-year-old Croatian midfielder, Ballon d’Or winner in 2018.
2025/26 Season at AC Milan: One-year contract with option, 32 appearances, 4 goals (all competitions).
Real Madrid Career: 2012–2025, 534 games, 37 goals, 5 Champions League titles.
World Cup 2026: Expected to captain Croatia in group stage matches against Brazil and others.