Former Real Madrid star and Welsh international, Gareth Bale, has lauded Luka Modric with glowing admiration as the Croatian veteran completes a high-profile switch to Italian giants AC Milan. Speaking shortly after Modric’s departure from the Santiago Bernabéu, Bale described the 39-year-old midfield dynamo as “fine wine,” referencing the Croatian’s remarkable consistency and class that, in his words, “only gets better with age.”
Modric’s exit comes after over a decade of extraordinary service to Real Madrid, a club where he cemented his legacy as one of the finest midfielders of his generation. Having joined Los Blancos in 2012 from Tottenham Hotspur, Modric played a pivotal role in an era marked by dominance in both domestic and European competitions. He won an impressive 25 trophies with the Spanish giants, including five UEFA Champions League titles, three La Liga titles, and multiple Club World Cup victories. His influence extended beyond statistics, as he orchestrated play with vision, composure, and unrivaled football intelligence.
Now set for a new chapter with AC Milan, Modric departs Real Madrid shortly after their campaign in the FIFA Club World Cup, where the Spanish outfit fell short of expectations. His move to Serie A comes at a time when many expected him to retire or head to a less competitive league. Instead, the Croatian captain has opted to continue playing at the highest level, a testament to his enduring fitness, professionalism, and hunger for top-tier football.
Gareth Bale, who shared a dressing room with Modric for several years in Madrid, expressed nothing but admiration for his former teammate. “He’s like fine wine—just keeps getting better,” Bale remarked. The comment echoes the sentiment of many football fans who have watched Modric evolve from a rising Premier League talent into a Ballon d’Or winner and midfield icon.
Luka Modric’s transfer to AC Milan is not just the end of an era at Real Madrid, but also a significant gain for the Rossoneri, who are bringing in a wealth of experience, leadership, and technical brilliance. As one of Croatia’s most decorated footballers, Modric’s legacy at Madrid is secure, and his next challenge in Italy promises to be another exciting chapter in a career defined by excellence.
