How Ruben Amorim Plans to Manage Luka Modric at AC Milan: Tactics, Role, and Challenges

Amorim Outlines Tactical Requirements for Modrić

Speaking at a press conference at Milanello ahead of Milan’s opening League Phase match in the UEFA Europa League against Benfica, Rúben Amorim directly addressed the management of Luka Modrić. According to coverage from Italian sports outlets, the manager emphasized that utilizing the veteran midfielder requires strict control of possession.

“To make Luka feel comfortable in the match, we must have long spells of ball possession,” Amorim stated in remarks reported by PianetaMilan. Recalling the Lazio fixture, the manager pointed out instances of unforced turnovers under minimal pressure that forced the team into constant transitional running. “And that is not the kind of game Luka should play. Therefore, to field a player like Luka, because we want him in certain game situations and in specific matches, we must have someone capable of reasoning very well with the ball at their feet.”

Amorim added that jumping to conclusions regarding the player’s status is premature. “Modrić is a great player, he won the Ballon d’Or, I know what he is worth, we must not jump to hasty conclusions,” the manager said, echoing sentiments shared with ANSA and other news outlets.

The tactical dilemma highlights a sharp shift from previous setups. Under former coach Massimiliano Allegri, Milan’s tactical blueprint placed Modrić at the center of deep buildup, supported by a double pivot and defensive shielding from teammates like Adrien Rabiot. In contrast, Amorim’s system demands constant vertical pressing, aggressive recoveries, and relentless box-to-box movement—a profile that places heavy physical demands on a veteran squad.

The Lazio Substitution and the Roster Balance

The tactical adjustment at halftime during the 2-2 draw against Lazio proved decisive. Trailing 2-0 at the break, Amorim withdrew Modrić in favor of Yunus Musah. The tactical switch injected immediate verticality and speed, with contributions from Christian Pulisic and Diego Moreira helping Milan claw back a point in Rome.

Analyzing the squad rotation, Amorim noted that the club cannot approach a multi-competition campaign relying strictly on 11 or 15 players. “We have clear ideas about what each player can do and what the starting lineup could be. But there is the league and the cups,” Amorim explained. “We have seen what Musah can do and what Modrić can do, the formation changes and serves to arrive at victories.”

According to tactical analysis from Sky Sport Italia and Eurosport, this strategic division suggests that Modrić and Musah may see limited minutes together on the pitch. Instead, Amorim is expected to deploy the former Real Madrid star during matches where Milan projects heavy possession and controlled tempo, while reserving more dynamic, high-running profiles for chaotic or transitional fixtures.

The Road Ahead: Benfica, Lecce, and International Duty

AC Milan faces a relentless sequence of fixtures that will test squad depth. Following the midweek European clash against Benfica scheduled at San Siro, the Rossoneri return to domestic action against Lecce before the upcoming international break.

Complicating load management further, Modrić remains committed to international duty with the Croatia national team, leaving little opportunity for complete physical recovery through the autumn months. As the club navigates domestic competition, the Coppa Italia, and European commitments, the central question for Amorim’s technical staff remains finding the exact tactical equilibrium to protect their veteran playmaker’s unique technical gifts without sacrificing the team’s aggressive pressing identity.