Modrić: My Dream Is to Win Trophies with AC Milan, Not Just Enjoy Football

After officially returning to AC Milan’s pre-season training camp, Luka Modrić gave an interview to Sky Sport Italia, discussing his ambitions with the Rossoneri, his contract renewal, Milan’s new signings, Rafael Leão’s future and his expectations for the upcoming season.

On his goal of continuing with AC Milan
“When I first arrived here, I said that my dream has always been to win trophies with Milan. That is the reason why I came here. I didn’t come here just to enjoy football. My goal is to bring a trophy to Milan, whether it is the Serie A title or another honour. I came here to achieve that objective, and it has always been my dream.”

On his contract renewal
“I never had any doubts about renewing my contract. In fact, I could have extended my deal as early as December last year, but I preferred to wait and see how my body responded, to make sure I still had that hunger and passion for football inside me.”

On Franco Baresi’s legacy
“What does Franco Baresi represent? What does Milan truly mean? He was — even if not the only one — perhaps the greatest legend in the history of this great club.

“Beyond that, he was an incredibly humble person. He was a great leader, but he always led by example. And yes, as I said, he represents everything about Milan. He represents the entire identity of this club.

“His loss is a huge blow for Milan and for all Milan fans.”

On the fans’ love and support
“When I felt the affection from the fans and the club’s desire to keep me here, I had no doubts. Of course, as I said before, from the beginning I was already very certain that I wanted to stay here.”

On Milan’s transfer strategy
“I really like what the club is doing at the moment. Basically, almost all of the players from last season have stayed, and now there are also some new additions coming in. That will be very important for us.

“Last season, we were missing some new signings, and the three new players you mentioned, I believe they will all bring more quality, different characteristics and more strengths to the team. These additions will help us achieve our goals.”

On his relationship with manager Ruben Amorim
“During the summer, I spoke with the coach several times, and the conversations were very positive. I have a very good feeling about it.”

On Rafael Leão’s future
“I don’t want to give him any advice. Rafa is mature enough, he knows what is best for him, and he also knows how much the fans and everyone at the club love him.

“Maybe last season was not his best, and he went through a lot of injuries. At that time, he felt that his physical condition was not at the level he wanted.

“But Rafa is still a great player. In my opinion, if he stays, it would be perfect for us because when he is at his peak, he is one of the best players in the world.

“I hope he can stay healthy, rediscover his form and help us have a great season. Like I have always said, he is an excellent player, and I would love to see him here next season.

“Let’s see what happens next. He and the club will make the best decision and find the option that suits everyone. But as a teammate, of course you always want a player like Rafa in your squad.”

On last season and his personal goals
“We were still disappointed that we failed to qualify for the Champions League last season. That was our minimum objective, and we actually had a very good campaign.

“Personally, after getting injured away against Juventus, I was frustrated that I could not help the team in the final matches.

“I am happy to stay at Milan, and I hope I can reproduce the excellent performances I had last season.”

On new teammate Gonçalo Ramos
“Gonçalo is a very good striker. His career record already proves that. I have had the chance to watch and follow him in previous matches, and he is a player who always scores goals.

“I firmly believe that he can continue doing the same after joining us.

“Unfortunately, we faced each other at the World Cup, and he even scored against us — that was certainly not a pleasant memory!” (laughs).