In the intricate dance of international football, where talent transcends borders, sometimes a shared heritage, no matter how distant, can forge an unexpected bond. Such is the intriguing narrative unfolding at AC Milan, where the arrival of legendary Croatian midfielder Luka Modric promises a unique dynamic with American winger Christian Pulisic. The connection, rooted in Pulisic`s Croatian ancestry, has sparked conversations and predictions, most notably from fellow Croatian great, Ivan Rakitic.
The Passport That Spoke Volumes: Pulisic`s Croatian Roots
Christian Pulisic, a standout talent for the U.S. Men`s National Team, might be unequivocally American on the pitch, but his family tree stretches back to the island of Olib, near Zadar, Croatia. This heritage isn`t merely a point of interest; it`s a practical advantage that provided him with a Croatian passport, smoothing his path into European football as a youth at Borussia Dortmund. Fast forward to his recent move to AC Milan, and this ancestral thread gains new significance with the arrival of Luka Modric.
The scene, quickly immortalized on social media, saw Modric, fresh into his new Rossoneri colors, playfully inquire if Pulisic spoke Croatian. Pulisic`s candid reply—”Only the passport is Croatian“—highlighted the whimsical irony of the situation. Yet, it`s precisely this kind of lighthearted interaction that can lay the groundwork for a more profound connection, especially when a player of Modric`s caliber is involved.
Rakitic`s Vision: Modric as the Master Sculptor
Ivan Rakitic, the recently retired Barcelona icon and Modric`s long-time midfield partner for Croatia, offers a seasoned perspective on this burgeoning partnership. Speaking to the “Call It What You Want” crew, Rakitic didn`t just joke about the `Croatian connection`; he laid out a clear vision for how Modric could elevate Pulisic.
“I think, first of all, Pulisic has to learn a bit more Croatian. First step,” Rakitic quipped, before diving into the serious business of footballing mentorship. “There are some players, during their career, as is possibly [the case with] Luka, they are different. But why are they different? Because they are able to get the control a team or of some guys, to give them something special where they really can improve their game, you know. And Luka is like this…”
Rakitic`s words paint Modric not just as a gifted player, but as a rare catalyst – a “master sculptor” capable of enhancing the raw talent around him. It`s a testament to Modric`s leadership and strategic intelligence, qualities that extend beyond mere skill. He’s the kind of player who doesn`t just play well; he makes everyone else play better.
Beyond the Pitch: The Art of Professionalism
The veteran midfielder stressed that Pulisic`s learning opportunity with Modric transcends tactics and training drills. “I think he has to try to learn from Luka, but not only on the pitch and during the training sessions. When they are on the way, how he really is dealing with PR, all these parts are important.” This comprehensive mentorship, encompassing everything from media relations to daily conduct, mirrors Rakitic`s own experience learning from Xavi at Barcelona. It’s about understanding what it truly means to operate at the absolute highest level of the sport, where every detail matters.
In a world where careers flash by, Rakitic`s advice serves as a potent reminder for Pulisic to savor and absorb every moment. “Because after that, the time is flying. Time is passing so fast… this year or two years, I don`t know how long he will stay in Milan, was amazing because there you can learn many things. What it is really to be a player on the highest level.”
Legends, Friendship, and Unforgettable Talents: Rakitic`s Personal Pantheon
The conversation with Rakitic also peeled back the layers on his personal reflections, revealing his favorite former teammates. While acknowledging the unparalleled genius of Lionel Messi, he surprisingly named Neymar as his “favorite player,” lamenting the Brazilian`s departure from Barcelona as “the worst decision a player could do.” A touch of melancholic truth, perhaps, given the unfulfilled potential of that MSN trident.
Naturally, Luka Modric featured prominently, described affectionately as “my older brother in football.” But it was Rakitic`s tribute to Jose Antonio Reyes that truly resonated. Reyes, tragically departed, was remembered as “maybe the most talented guy I play with,” a poignant nod to a raw, unbridled ability cut short by fate. These insights underscore the deep personal connections forged in the crucible of professional football, relationships that endure far beyond the final whistle.
2026 World Cup: A Vision of Freedom for USMNT
Looking ahead, Rakitic offered his thoughts on the U.S. Men`s National Team and the eagerly anticipated 2026 World Cup on home soil. His advice for the squad, under Mauricio Pochettino, was clear and concise: “No pressure.”
While acknowledging the inherent expectations, Rakitic urged the team to “feel free” and “enjoy football,” trusting in their “amazing players” and “crazy big coach.” The atmosphere, he predicted, would be “crazy,” and he expressed hope for “the best World Cup in history.” It’s a simple, yet profound philosophy: allow immense talent to flourish without the paralyzing weight of external expectations.
As Christian Pulisic embarks on this new chapter with AC Milan, the shadow and light of Luka Modric`s presence loom large. Whether it`s the shared, albeit distant, Croatian heritage, or the invaluable wisdom of a footballing legend, the stage is set for a mentorship that could redefine Pulisic`s trajectory. If Rakitic`s predictions hold true, this season could be less about individual brilliance and more about the quiet, profound alchemy of a master guiding his protégé.
