The future of Croatia’s football star Luka Modric is uncertain after the bitter defeat in the Nations League final against Spain.
Real Madrid’s midfield strategist left it open after beating Spain 4-5 on penalties whether he would continue playing for the national team. The next big goal would be the European Championships in Germany next year. The 37-year-old also played his first major tournament in Germany in 2006.
“We’re sorry we couldn’t win the title for Luka,” said Croatia coach Zlatko Dalic after the final defeat. “Luka said he will make his own decision, but we all need a little time to let that sink in,” said Dalic.
Nations League: Croatia star Modric is loudly celebrated
The coach hopes that Modric will continue despite the renewed disappointment. “He played great again, gave it his all again for 120 minutes. I would be happy if he continues,” said Dalic. Spain’s victorious coach Luis De la Fuente saw it that way too. “I admire Luka Modric. I hope he continues because you never want great players to leave,” said De La Fuente.
Modric became vice world champion with Croatia in Russia in 2018. At the World Cup in Qatar last year, Modric and Co. took third place. “We can be very proud of all the medals,” said Dalic.
The golden generation around Modric has so far been denied a title. The next few weeks will show whether the crowd’s favourite, who was loudly celebrated by around 35,000 Croatian supporters in De Kuip after the end of the game, will make a new attempt next year.