Luka Modric’s illustrious career extends beyond Europe with fans turned out in large numbers to welcome him to Perth on Sunday.
Modric joined his AC Milan teammates in Australia as they prepare to face Inter at the Optus Stadium on Wednesday, August 5.
A crowd of fans wearing Croatia and Milan jerseys gathered outside Perth Airport to welcome Modric to the Australian city.
The 2018 Ballon d’Or winner had to be assisted by airport officials as the fans requested autographs and photographs.
The stop in Australia is Milan’s third pre-season tour in Western Australia as they get ready for the new Italian Serie A season that kicks off against Torino on August 23.
Milan Continue Their Australia Pre-Season Tour
The Rossoneri are back in Australia for the third consecutive year as a result of their long-standing relationship with Western Australia.
It won’t be their first time to play in Perth, having previously faced AS Roma in 2024 and Perth Glory in 2025.
They started their pre-season tour in Scotland with a 2-2 draw against Celtic on July 25 and they will later face Chelsea in Indonesia on Saturday, August 8.
What Luka Modric Brings To Milan This Season
Modric is expected to play a crucial role in new manager Ruben Amorim’s squad next season after his impressive debut campaign.
The 40-year-old is in the final year of his contract at the San Siro and the 2026-27 campaign is rumoured to be his final season as a professional player as he gears up for his final international game with Croatia in September.
Amorim is ready to build his squad around Modric who contributed two goals and three assists in 34 Serie A matches last season.
The 2018 Ballon d’Or winner is viewed as a cog in helping Milan establish their playing style around possession.
“His experience will help young players develop, and it will be crucial in our development,” Amorim said.
“We want to base our game on possession, and if there's anyone in the world who can be truly useful in managing possession, it's Luka.”
Modric's arrival has added even more excitement to the Rossoneri's visit to Australia, with supporters eager to see one of football's greatest midfielders in action before the new season begins. The veteran continues to attract fans wherever he travels, highlighting his enduring influence on the global game.
Wednesday's meeting with Inter will provide another valuable test for Milan as they continue preparations for the 2026-27 Serie A campaign. Beyond the result, the match offers Amorim another opportunity to build chemistry within his squad before competitive football returns later this month.
For younger members of the Rossoneri squad, sharing the pitch with a Ballon d'Or winner such as Modric is another chance to learn from one of the game's most decorated professionals. His leadership, composure in possession and experience remain valuable assets as Milan aim to challenge on multiple fronts this season.
