AC Milan forward Santiago Gimenez shared an interesting story about veteran midfielder Luka Modric, who bought iPhones for everyone in the team after his arrival from Real Madrid. Modric did this to avoid taking part in a dressing room tradition where every new player has to sing a song in front of the rest of the squad. The Croatian midfielder has been one of the standout performers in Serie A this season, inspiring Milan to the top of the league table.
Joining Milan on a free transfer from Madrid, Modric became the oldest midfielder to score in Serie A when he netted the winner in a 1-0 victory over Bologna. The midfielder, who reinvented himself from a number eight to a deep-lying playmaker similar to Italian legend Andrea Pirlo, drew praise from Milan great Demetrio Albertini, who said Modric makes everyone around him look better.
Despite starting the season with a 2-1 defeat against Cremonese, Modric’s influence in both the defensive and attacking phases has helped coach Massimiliano Allegri guide Milan back to the top of the table, capped by a crucial 2-1 win over Fiorentina.
Milan’s Mexican striker Gimenez shared an amusing story on his TikTok, revealing how Modric cleverly avoided a team tradition. As is the case with many clubs, new signings at Milan are usually encouraged to sing at team gatherings, but Modric found a unique way out by buying everyone an iPhone as a bribe to skip the ritual.
“We arrived in the dressing room and each player found a new iPhone at his spot,” Gimenez said. “Modric gave it to us as a gift. He bought each of us a phone. Instead of singing, he bought us all a phone.”
Using his tactical intelligence, Modric has been instrumental in maintaining Milan’s defensive organisation, making them the second-best defence in the league, only behind Roma.
Milan legend Alessandro Costacurta has also lauded Modric’s leadership and charisma. The former defender highlighted the immense experience Modric brings to the side and felt that his leadership was something Milan had been missing, even when they were not short on technical quality. Former Barcelona midfielder and compatriot Ivan Rakitic also praised his former team-mate, saying his football intelligence puts him ahead of everyone else, while his pure love for the game continues to drive him forward.
Modric’s influence at Milan extends well beyond his performances on the pitch. His leadership and professionalism have started to shape the mentality of his teammates. Italy national team coach Gennaro Gattuso urged Milan’s young midfielder Samuele Ricci to make the most of the opportunity to train and play alongside a player of Modric’s calibre, calling it an invaluable experience that could accelerate his growth and maturity.
Milan forward Rafael Leao also shared a touching story about Modric, recalling how the veteran hugged him on his first day at the training centre and promised to help him improve. Leao believes that Modric’s guidance will help him become more efficient in front of goal.
With Milan still missing USMNT striker Christian Pulisic due to a hamstring injury and midfielder Adrien Rabiot also sidelined, fans will be hoping that midfield metronome Modric can guide the team when they host Pisa on Friday. Sitting at the top of the table, Milan know that a win against Pisa could extend their lead over second-placed Inter and third-placed Napoli, who are set to face each other on Sunday. Modric’s experience and influence in the middle of the park will be crucial in maintaining control and ensuring Milan continue their push for the top spot.
