'Champion' Luka Modric will be key for AC Milan goals as Massimiliano Allegri opens up on positive side of missing out on Champions League

Allegri has highlighted the Croatian legend's role as pivotal to Milan’s objectives for the upcoming season, saying he will "raise the technical level" of the squad as they target a return to the Champions League. He further acknowledged that being limited to one match a week allows increased focus on training and tactical development, but described missing Champions League nights as a drawback.

The Rossoneri endured a challenging 2024–25 campaign, finishing eighth in Serie A and missing out on European competition. The appointment of Allegri, a returning Scudetto winner, underlines Milan’s determination to restore past glories. The club moved decisively in the transfer window, landing 39-year-old Modric after his trophy-laden spell at Real Madrid. Allegri confirmed there is "total synergy" with the club's transfer market efforts, and noted the focus should shift to the future, insisting that past achievements are irrelevant to the task ahead. The team's immediate goal is to be fully prepared for the competitive opener on 17 August.

Allegri told reporters: "Modric will be important for us; he's a champion and will raise the technical level. The goal is to return to playing in the Champions League , which won't be easy because there are very well-equipped and competitive teams."

Asked how the lack of midweek matches for much of the season will impact his team, Allegri added: "The positive aspect is that playing once a week gives you more time to work, assimilate concepts, and become more of a team. The negative aspect is that by not playing in the Champions League, you don't get to play the big games everyone would like to play. I look at the glass half full: we have to work hard so that Milan can return to the Champions League next year. I've come back here with enthusiasm and desire. I'm focused on the final objective, which is to qualify for the 2026-27 Champions League , which is crucial for the brand and for the club financially."

Allegri’s immediate focus is on building cohesion within the group before the first competitive fixture on 17 August. The club continues to seek further reinforcement in the transfer market, aiming to be "competitive for all three objectives by 31 August". Modric is expected to be integrated as a key technical leader, with Milan's efforts firmly set on regaining a Champions League place in 2025–26 and rebuilding financial and sporting stature.