The Croatian national team missed out on advancing to the Round of 16 in Euro 2024 in dramatic fashion, drawing their second and third group stage matches against Albania and Italy with last-minute goals.
With this exit, the dream of Croatian star Luka Modrić, who is nearing his 39th birthday, to win a title for his country has faded. Modrić had previously led his team to the 2018 World Cup final, marking the greatest achievement in Croatian football history.
This early exit has dashed the hopes of the Real Madrid star, and perhaps his last chance at the Euros, as it will be very challenging for him to participate in the next tournament when he will be 43.
Regarding the possibility of retiring from international football, Modrić stated, “One day, I will announce my retirement from playing, but I don’t know when that will be. I want to play football forever, but we know that’s impossible.”
Marijan Kustić, President of the Croatian Football Federation, urged captain Modrić to hold onto the captain’s armband and not consider international retirement at this time.
“I hope Modrić stays with the national team, continues to wear the captain’s armband in the UEFA Nations League and the 2026 World Cup, and makes the decision himself. I believe he will stay, and I want him to stay,” Kustić added.
Croatia had been leading 1-0 until Italy scored a dramatic equalizer in the 98th minute, resulting in the fiery team’s exit from the European Championship. They finished third in Group B with only two points, behind Spain and Italy.
