Modric: Milan ‘Let Ourselves Down’ in Deserved Bologna Defeat as Derby Looms

FolioPitch.com – 29 October 2026 | Luka Modric has insisted that AC Milan cannot make excuses for themselves after their disappointing defeat to Bologna, acknowledging that the team let themselves down in a match they were expected to win. The Croatian midfielder, who came on at half-time in place of the injured Fikayo Tomori, spoke candidly to Sky after the final whistle, and his words echoed the frustration felt by the Rossoneri faithful. Indeed, it was a case of We let ourselves down Modric unhappy after deserved Bologna defeat, as the veteran playmaker pulled no punches in his assessment of a second-half collapse that saw Milan surrender a half-time lead.

Milan suffered their first league defeat of the season despite coming from behind in the first half to lead, thanks to an Alphadjo Cisse brace. Bologna struck three times in a second-half collapse to earn the three points, with Samuel Mbangula netting a hat-trick. The result leaves Milan with plenty to ponder ahead of a crucial week, with the Derby della Madonnina against Inter on Saturday followed by a Europa League clash with Ferencváros at San Siro. The injury crisis also worsened, with Tomori forced off at the break, adding to the manager’s selection headaches.

Modric, who replaced Tomori at the interval, gave a frank assessment of the night’s events. “It was a tough defeat, we weren’t expecting it, especially after the first half,” he said. “Up until now, I think we’d done well in the league, but tonight we lost our first game. In the second half, we lost a lot of duels. That goal we conceded from a set-piece was unfortunate, and from then on, we let ourselves down. A deserved defeat.” The midfielder’s comments were transcribed by MilanNews, and they reflect a sense of self-reproach rather than frustration at external factors.

When asked whether the mounting injuries could serve as an excuse, Modric was adamant that they could not. “We can’t have excuses. There are so many injuries, but it’s positive that the next match will come right away. We’ve done very well so far this evening, so we need to stay optimistic and hope we can stay united and respond on Saturday.” The quick turnaround, with the derby just days away, offers Milan an immediate opportunity to bounce back, and Modric sees that as a positive.

The defeat to Bologna was particularly painful given the manner of the collapse. Milan had shown character to come from behind in the first half, with Cisse’s brace putting them in control. However, the second half was a different story, as Bologna exploited Milan’s defensive frailties and punished them with three goals. Mbangula’s hat-trick was the highlight for the visitors, but for Milan, it was a defensive horror show that raised questions about their resilience.

Modric also addressed the broader development of the team under the new coach. “I think we’re growing well, in a good direction. The coach arrived with new ideas, a new style of play, and little by little we’re trying to understand his vision and what he requires of us. And as I said before, we’ve done well so far. We can always do better, but we still need to improve, and we hope to do so throughout the season.” His words suggest that while the defeat is a setback, there is belief in the project.

However, the atmosphere around Milan seems to be one of distrust, as Modric acknowledged when asked about the climate. The defeat to Bologna will only intensify the scrutiny on the team and the coach, especially with the derby on the horizon. Milan’s fans will demand a reaction, and the players know they must deliver.

The injury situation is a concern, with Tomori’s withdrawal adding to the list. The defender was replaced by Modric, which forced a reshuffle, but the extent of Tomori’s injury is not yet known. Milan will be hoping it is not serious, given the importance of the upcoming fixtures.

In conclusion, Modric’s honest assessment serves as a rallying cry for Milan. The phrase We let ourselves down Modric unhappy after deserved Bologna defeat encapsulates the mood, but it also highlights the midfielder’s leadership and desire to see an immediate response. With the derby looming, Milan have no time to dwell on the disappointment. They must regroup, learn from their mistakes, and show the character that Modric believes they possess. The season is long, and as Modric said, they need to stay united and respond on Saturday. Only then can they turn this setback into a catalyst for growth.