Australia erupts for Luka Modric as fans swarm Perth arrival

The hero’s welcome for Luka Modric in Australia highlights his enduring appeal and sets an electrifying tone for AC Milan’s pre‑season tour, signalling strong fan engagement ahead of the upcoming high‑profile exhibition derby with Inter Milan at Perth’s Optus Stadium.

Fans wearing Croatian jerseys filled the arrival hall at Perth Airport on Sunday, chanting the midfield great’s name while pushing forward for photographs and autographs.

Milan staff quickly escorted Modric from the terminal after the large crowd gathered.

The 2018 Ballon d’Or winner, now 40, joined his teammates in Western Australia ahead of Wednesday night’s Derby della Madonnina at Optus Stadium.

The match forms part of the Calcio Italiano football festival, which has brought AC Milan, Inter Milan, Juventus and Palermo to Perth.

Inter Milan received an equally vocal welcome earlier on Sunday, with supporters gathering outside the club’s hotel despite cold morning conditions.

Milan coach Ruben Amorim believes Modric’s experience will aid the development of younger players and bolster the team’s possession‑based approach. “His experience will help young players develop, and it will be crucial in our development,” Amorim said.

Modric, who turns 41 on September 9, is beginning what could be his final professional season, and his Milan jersey has become the best‑selling shirt in the club’s official stores. He is also set to end his international career when Croatia face Spain in a Nations League match in Split on October 6.

Juventus will face Inter at Optus Stadium on Saturday before meeting Serie B side Palermo at HBF Park next Tuesday, with US midfielder Weston McKennie named in the travelling squad.

The report was filed by JOSH ALSTON, SPORTS REPORTER, at 07:46 BST on August 3, with an Updated at 07:47 BST.