Croatia’s Modric Opens Up on Career’s End After Heroic World Cup Performance

FolioPitch.com – 29 June 2026 | In a candid interview following Croatia‘s crucial victory over Ghana, Luka Modric offered a rare and honest reflection on the twilight of his illustrious career. The midfield maestro, who earned his 201st cap and provided an assist in the 2-1 win that secured Croatia’s place in the round of 32, admitted that the end of my career is getting closer Modric provides honest reflection after Croatia heroics is a sentiment he increasingly feels with each passing match.

Modric, now 38, has been a cornerstone of both Real Madrid and the Croatian national team for over a decade. However, after leading his country to back-to-back World Cup glory in 2018 (silver) and 2022 (bronze), the veteran playmaker is beginning to confront the inevitable. ‘I enjoy every moment, every training session, every match. I know I’m getting older, and the end of my career is getting closer,’ Modric said, echoing the theme of the end of my career is getting closer Modric provides honest reflection after Croatia heroics. ‘I try to enjoy it as much as possible, but it’s not easy because, especially in the national team, the pressure is enormous.’

The match against Ghana saw Croatia overcome a shaky start to seal a deserved win, with 20-year-old Petar Sucic scoring his first international goal. Modric, ever the mentor, praised the youngster’s impact. But the focus remained on the veteran’s own future. When asked about his club situation amid speculation linking him with a move away from AC Milan or even retirement, Modric acknowledged uncertainty. ‘The end of my career is getting closer Modric provides honest reflection after Croatia heroics,’ he repeated, underscoring the weight of his words. He revealed that he is open to discussing his role with new Croatia coach Ruben Amorim but has made no decision about staying at Milan, moving elsewhere, or hanging up his boots.

Croatia’s journey in this World Cup has been a rollercoaster. After a poor start against England, they grew into the tournament. Modric believes the team is peaking at the right time. ‘We started badly against England, we grew against Panama – a hard-fought victory, but still a victory – and even more so against Ghana, our best match. And we’ll improve even more,’ he said. The victory set up a mouthwatering clash against Portugal, where Modric will face club teammate Rafael Leao and potential future colleague Goncalo Ramos. Despite the pressure, Modric remains defiant: ‘We have nothing to fear, and our rival won’t be happy to challenge us.’

The interview, conducted by La Gazzetta dello Sport journalist Filippo Maria Ricci, delved into the psychological burden of being a perennial contender. Modric acknowledged that expectations after 2018 and 2022 may be unrealistic, but he embraces the challenge. ‘All of these things put extra pressure on ourselves, which affects our game. Now, however, our self-confidence is growing – we’ve lifted an unnecessary burden because what we’re doing is incredible.’

As the World Cup enters its knockout phase, Modric’s focus remains on the present. Yet the refrain of the end of my career is getting closer Modric provides honest reflection after Croatia heroics serves as a poignant reminder that one of football’s greats is nearing the final chapter. Whether he continues at club level or calls time after the tournament, his legacy is secure. For now, Croatia and their captain have a date with destiny.