Adrien Rabiot: “Modric Is an Inspiration and True Example for Everyone”

Key Takeaways:

• Luka Modric, who moved to AC Milan as a free agent after 13 years at Real Madrid, has delivered several match-winning performances in his first two months at the San Siro
• Adrien Rabiot has praised Modric’s enduring professionalism and highlighted his influence in Milan’s overhaul under new manager Massimiliano Allegri
• With 13 points from six fixtures, Milan currently occupy third place in Serie A behind Napoli and Roma

Midfield Overhaul Fuels Milan’s Resurgence

AC Milan have undergone a significant transformation following their calamitous 2024-25 campaign, which saw the club finish eighth and change managers on two occasions. The return of Massimiliano Allegri after an 11-year hiatus has coincided with a renewed emphasis on midfield strength. Over the summer, Milan secured the services of Samuele Ricci and Ardon Jashari, and completed the high-profile addition of Luka Modric, a veteran of six Champions League titles with Real Madrid. Adrien Rabiot, having resolved a controversial spell at Marseille, has also returned to Serie A to reinforce the squad.

🗣️ Rabiot spoke to @Gazzetta_it: Surprised by 40-year-old Modrić? "I’m not surprised by his commitment and professionalism; otherwise, he wouldn’t still be performing at this level at his age. What surprises me is what he’s still capable of doing at 40 it’s remarkable. He gives… pic.twitter.com/Z2ZO0vDciG

— Milan Posts (@MilanPosts) October 8, 2025

Modric’s Immediate Impact and Enduring Quality

Having celebrated his 40th birthday in September, Modric has quickly embedded himself as a mainstay in Allegri’s starting eleven. His influence has extended beyond his on-pitch performances; his ability to maintain elite standards at an advanced age has not gone unnoticed by team-mates and pundits alike. Modric’s early outings have positioned him among the standout players in Serie A since the start of the season, boosting Milan’s credentials as early contenders for the Scudetto.

Rabiot Applauds Modric’s Professionalism

Speaking to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Adrien Rabiot did not hesitate to acknowledge Modric’s exemplary commitment and professionalism, emphasising both his physical resilience and continued passion for the game despite his age. Rabiot stated: “I’m not surprised by his commitment and professionalism, otherwise he wouldn’t be at this level at his age. I’m surprised because at forty, what he does isn’t something you can take for granted. He’s someone who continues to give everything in matches and in training. A true example for everyone.

“He’s an inspiration, but then it depends on different variables: his physique, injuries. Modric certainly has great passion. And passion is the driving force behind everything. And then he’s happy to continue training hard and playing.”

Serie A Standings and Title Hopes

After six rounds, Allegri’s charges have accrued 13 points and occupy third in the league table, trailing both Napoli and Roma by two points. Rabiot has asserted his belief that Milan have all the necessary tools to vie for the title, while noting the competitive nature of the current Serie A field. He commented: “As usual, there are so many teams. Seeing Roma so high up is a bit of a surprise.”

“Napoli remains the strongest. Inter is the Italian team that has done best in Europe so far, and unlike us, they have the advantage of playing together for a long time. It’s not a given that we’ll immediately create the right dynamic. Juve has quality, but less than Napoli or Inter; they still lack the chemistry needed to win the Scudetto. They’ll be fighting for a Champions League spot.

“We’ll definitely fight until the end, and I hope to win the Scudetto again, because we didn’t celebrate the one against Juventus properly due to Covid. This time, I’d like to celebrate with all the fans in the square.”

Current Serie A Standings (Top Three)