At 38, Luka Modrić finds himself at a crossroads in his career as his contract with Real Madrid is set to expire at the end of the month. While sources have indicated that he is expected to sign a one-year extension with the club, the Croatian midfielder has remained tight-lipped about his future plans. Speaking to ESPN, Modrić expressed his focus on the upcoming Euro 2024 tournament with Croatia, where they will face Spain in their debut match at the Olympiastadion in Berlin.
Modrić’s upcoming appearance in Euro 2024 will mark his ninth major tournament with the Croatian national team. From his debut in the 2006 World Cup to the recent success in the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, where Croatia secured a third-placed finish, Modrić has been a pivotal figure in his country’s footballing journey. Reflecting on his career, Modrić admitted that he never envisioned achieving such heights when he began his journey.
As Modrić faces the twilight of his career, his enduring presence in international football stands in sharp contrast to the youthful exuberance of players like Spain’s Lamine Yamal. At just 16 years old, Yamal is set to become the youngest player to feature in the Euro 2024 finals, showcasing the stark age difference between generations. Modrić, unfazed by the reminder of his age, emphasized that what truly matters is the performance on the pitch, regardless of age.
Croatia and Spain find themselves in a challenging group alongside holders Italy and Albania, setting the stage for intense competition in Euro 2024. Modrić acknowledged the tough journey ahead for his team, labeling them as the “dark horses” of the tournament. Despite often being underestimated, Croatia has consistently proven their worth on the international stage, showcasing their unity and determination to make a mark in European football.
As speculation swirls around Modrić’s future with Real Madrid, the midfielder remains focused on delivering strong performances for his country in Euro 2024. With the tournament set to kick off in Berlin, all eyes will be on Modrić as he seeks to lead Croatia to success on the international stage. While his club future remains uncertain, Modrić’s unwavering commitment to the game and his enduring passion for football continue to define his remarkable career.
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