Modric explains reason for not 'stealing' No.10 jersey from Rafael Leao

Luka Modric was officially unveiled as an AC Milan player on Monday, and in his first interview with the club's official channel, he didn't hide his excitement about wearing the Rossoneri jersey, especially as it's... his childhood club.

The Croatian international, who recently ended a long and successful spell at Real Madrid, assured that he chose to stay in Europe to remain competitive and revealed that AC Milan's offer was his priority from the start: "I wanted to continue in Europe to play competitive football, and although I had other offers, when AC Milan contacted me, everything became clear to me. I wanted to come from the first minute."

"AC Milan is one of the biggest clubs in Europe; we cannot settle for mediocrity; we have to set the highest possible goals: win titles and compete with the best clubs in the world. That's why I'm here," he added.

The 39-year-old midfielder also recalled his childhood connection to AC Milan: "As a child, I watched a lot of Serie A and AC Milan was my favourite team. At that time, in Croatia, we watched AC Milan a lot because it was one of the most famous clubs in the world and also because Zvonimir Boban, who was my idol, played there."

Modric will wear the number 14 shirt, a number he already wore at the beginning of his career, for the Croatian national team and at Tottenham. The number 10, which he wore at Real Madrid, is currently worn by Rafael Leão, who received praise from the Balkan magician:

"Number 10 is with Rafael Leão, a great player and the present and future of AC Milan. Since number 10 wasn't available, I had to choose another number. I chose 14 because I like it. I wore it for the national team, at the beginning of my career, and also at Tottenham, and it went well. I hope it goes well here too."

"I've achieved many goals in my life, more than I expected. I'm happy and grateful for everything I've accomplished. I'm never satisfied, I always want more, especially professionally. When you win, when you feel that emotion, you always want to feel it again. That's why I still have the desire and hunger to win," he continued. Finally, he left a message for the fans: "I'm very happy to be at a great club like AC Milan. I can't wait to see you all at San Siro."