Modric joins Milan in one-year deal

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Luka Modric arrives in Milan before signing for AC Milan.

PHOTO: REUTERS

Croatia captain Luka Modric, who left Real Madrid after 13 years at the LaLiga club, has completed his move to AC Milan on a one-year deal with an option to extend until June 2027, the Serie A side said on July 14.

The 39-year-old midfielders arrival was confirmed by newly-appointed Milan coach Massimiliano Allegri earlier in July.

Modric will wear the number 14 shirt, Milan said in a statement.

Modric, regarded as one of the greatest midfielders of all time, announced in May that he would leave Real after the Club World Cup. He has made 597 appearances for the Spanish club, winning 28 trophies including four LaLiga and six Champions League titles.

He played his last game for Real on Wednesday, coming on as a second-half substitute during a 4-0 loss to Paris St Germain in the Club World Cup semi-finals.

Its a bitter end... hes a legend of world football and of Real Madrid. Hell be remembered for many more good things than for the 25 minutes he played today, Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso said after the match.

Modric, considered Croatias greatest player of all time, has represented the country 188 times, scoring 28 goals. He won the Golden Ball at World Cup 2018, where he led Croatia to the final for the first time.

He also won the Ballon dOr the same year, becoming the first player other than Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo to win the prestigious annual award since