Real Madrid Star Luka Modrić Likely To Retire from International Football

According to latest reports, the legendary Croatian midfielder and Real Madrid star, Luka Modrić, is thinking of ending his international football career. As he is now stepping into the twilight of his career, fans, pundits, and football enthusiasts from across the globe are pondering upon his journey and speculating upon what could be the reasons for this decision.

This article looks into Modrić’s age, physical condition, achievements, and contributions to the game, giving a picture of why he might want to end his international footballing career.

Age and Physical Condition

Luka Modrić was born on September 9, 1985, making him 38 years old. In a sport that demands peak physical performance, age inevitably becomes a limiting factor.

While Modrić has defied expectations by maintaining an exceptional level of fitness and skill well into his late 30s, the physical toll of international tournaments and a packed club schedule is undeniable.

His endurance and his ability to compete against much younger, faster players are testimonies to his professionalism and commitment, but the recovery time required after matches has increased with age.

This makes the case where the old, worn-out Modrić would rely so much on his vision and intelligence but more on position than athleticism skills in playing speed and energy.

Indeed, this speed might compel him to stop going hard, especially his international involvement, first off.

Arguments for Retirement

The reasons for Modrić’ s retirement into international football might be caused by various issues, as discussed.

1. Concentration on Club Football: The player remains part of Real Madrid’s squad at this juncture. He should consider stepping away from national duties as that may just help him continue with the club career.

2. Family Time: With more than four decades in the football fraternity, Modrić could have reached a point where he prefers to spend quality time with his family.

3. Legacy: Modrić has almost done everything there is to do in international football, including taking Croatia to the final of the 2018 FIFA World Cup. Leaving on a high note would cement his legacy.

Career Achievements

International Career

Modrić played for Croatia since 2006 and has become the country’s most capped player with over 170 caps to his name. He has led and inspired Croatia to the great successes they have had on the international level. Some key moments include:

1. FIFA World Cup 2018: Modrić led Croatia to their first-ever World Cup final, finishing as runners-up to France. He received the Golden Ball as the tournament’s best player.

2. UEFA Nations League 2023: Modrić led Croatia to the finals, demonstrating his longevity and will to power.

3. UEFA European Championships: He has featured in four European Championships for Croatia, consistently delivering standout performances.

During his international football career, Modrić has scored more than 20 goals and made quite a number of assists, often dictating play from midfield and getting his teammates inspired.

Club Career

Luka Modrić joined Real Madrid in 2012, having come from Tottenham Hotspur. He since became one of the team’s greatest players. At Real Madrid, he has won much in terms of trophies, including

1.       5 UEFA Champions League titles

2.       3 La Liga titles

3.       4 FIFA Club World Cups

2.       2 Copa del Rey trophies

Individually, Modrić has also earned several accolades, most notably the Ballon d’Or in 2018, breaking the decade-long dominance of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. His ability to control games, deliver pinpoint passes, and score crucial goals has made him a cornerstone of Real Madrid’s success.

Latest Tournament and Current Role

Recently, Modrić was in the finals of the UEFA Nations League with Croatia. They were still quite good.

The Croats were unable to go all the way to winning the title, but there was always something that told everyone of the great quality Modrić has and is not losing any. His age has already made some changes to him, though.

At Real Madrid, Modrić has adopted more of a rotational role; Eduardo Camavinga and Aurélien Tchouaméni have taken on this responsibility. He still contributes to the game with tactical acumen and his power to control the tempo: invaluable in high-pressure moments.

Effect of Age on Playing Style

Modrić’s playing style changes according to his advancing age. In the past, he made runs that were dynamic and box-to-box. Now, however, he makes:

1. Accuracy in Passes: Modrić is one of the most accurate passers on the field, whose percentage completion is mostly over 90%.

2. Game Management: Nobody is better than Modrić at knowing how to quicken or slow the tempo.

3. Set Pieces: Modrić remains a master of taking lethal free kicks and corners.

While he may not cover as much ground as he did a decade ago, his impact on games remains significant through his technical skills and leadership.

Legacy and What’s Next

When Modrić finally leaves the international platform, it would mean that his legacy remains unrivaled as Croatia’s greatest of all time.

His transformation from a war-torn Croatia to an international icon of footballing is really a testament of survival, prowess, and determination. For Real Madrid, his stay on will come in handy in the years to go ahead as new players join the club.

Modrić has hinted at probably pursuing coaching or mentoring when he retires, wherein he would be able to pass on his experience and knowledge to a future generation of players. Whichever path he pursues, his influence upon the game will remain forever.

Luka Modrić’s retirement from football will mark the end of an era for Croatia as well as the rest of the global football fraternity.

His incredible career, characterized by technical brilliance, leadership, and unwavering dedication, has inspired millions. While fans are sad about his departure from the international stage, there is no doubt that he will continue to be celebrated for memories of his extraordinary contribution to the game.

Modrić’s legacy is secure, and his next chapter, be it on or off the pitch, will undoubtedly be as impactful as his playing days.