Luka Modric, the Croatian football star, has opened up about the undisclosed truth following Croatia’s heartbreaking loss against Spain in the UEFA Nations League 2022/23 final. While Modric remained composed after the match, his admirers couldn’t help but feel a sense of sadness. They had hoped to see him lift the championship cup, but once again, international glory turned its back on the 37-year-old midfielder.
“Even in victory or defeat, my aim is always to play at the highest level and give my all to the sport, rather than seeking an easy retirement and chasing wealth in the Far East,” Modric stated emphatically.
Modric’s unwavering spirit was evident despite Croatia’s defeat to Spain in the penalty shootout. Fans across the globe wished to witness Modric’s triumph in the final and see him raise the championship trophy alongside the Croatian national team. He deserved nothing less, according to a Spanish fan after the UEFA Nations League final in Rotterdam.
Spanish football enthusiasts have undoubtedly witnessed Modric’s brilliant performances in the iconic white jersey of Real Madrid throughout various tournaments in the bullfighting nation. He has always been an indispensable pillar of the club’s recent successes. Therefore, both Croatians and non-Croatians who admire him feel disheartened by the lack of recognition and silverware in Modric’s international career.
“It’s truly a pity for that man. He was born to carry the burden of an entire national team in every competition, only to be defeated by others. Luka Modric deserves a title with the Croatian national team. I fear that after this defeat, he may retire from international football,” expressed a Croatian fan on Twitter, conveying a deep sense of regret for Modric’s plight.
Modric will celebrate his 38th birthday on September 9th. At this age, he delivered a dazzling performance in the Nations League final. The Real Madrid midfielder displayed exceptional skills against Spain and even successfully converted his penalty kick. However, fate had a cruel twist in store for Croatia, as Unai Simon’s brilliance sealed their defeat.
During the sixth penalty shootout, while Bruno Petkovic’s shot was saved by goalkeeper Unai Simon, Dani Carvajal executed a successful shot, securing victory for La Roja. This outcome also meant that Modric and the Croatian national team missed their best chance to claim their first major international title in history. Despite his numerous accomplishments at the club level, Modric has suffered two final defeats with the national team.
Nearly five years ago, on Russian soil, facing a formidable and resilient French national team, Modric and his teammates were defeated in the 2018 FIFA World Cup final with a score of 4-2. He shed tears and silently watched the French lift the championship trophy. Even when receiving the individual accolade of the Ballon d’Or for the tournament, Modric’s gaunt and sorrowful face left a lasting impression on many.
However, after the defeat in the UEFA Nations League 2022/23 final, Modric no longer sheds tears. He understands that this was his final chance to win a major international title with Croatia. It is highly likely that this bitter disappointment will lead Modric to make a decision regarding his retirement from the national team before their EURO 2024 qualifying campaign in September.
Modric’s refusal to entertain lucrative offers from Saudi Arabian clubs in order to fulfill his contract with Real Madrid until the end of the 2023/24 season further reinforces concerns about his choice to bid farewell to international football. Modric’s desire is to continue playing at the highest level and not seek an easy path to financial gain in the Far East. He goes against the current trend of stars in the twilight of their careers. Frustrated by the continuous defeats in the most crucial matches with the Croatian national team, Modric may be contemplating retirement.
Croatian football will undoubtedly take a long time to produce another versatile leader like Modric. In five years, he has led the Croatian national team to two finals (2018 World Cup and 2022/23 UEFA Nations League), securing a third-place finish in the FIFA World Cup in Qatar.
Even without any titles, Modric has already become a legend of Croatian football. However, it would be even more perfect if he could once touch the glory in that checkerboard jersey.
