Luka Modric, the Croatian national team captain declined to declare on Sunday evening if he will continue to play for Croatia, a side he has served since 2006.
“I have a clear decision, but I won’t announce it today,” Modri said as he walked out of Rotterdam’s stadium.
Croatia lost on penalties to Spain in the UEFA Nations League final following a goalless 120-minute match.
Modri, who will be 38 in three months, exited the stadium dissatisfied.
“His expression after the game, as well as the fact that he is waiting for the right moment to announce his decision, suggests that he may have ended his playing career for the Croatian national team after 17 years in Rotterdam,” Marca reports.
In front of around 35,000 people, Croatia came close to capturing their first title. However, they were defeated 4-5 in the penalty shootout, denying them the gold medal for the second time in a row. They earned the bronze medal at the World Cup in Qatar six months ago.
Despite the setback, Croatian supporters cheered and sang as they wished the national team farewell at Feyenoord’s stadium.
Luka Modric may still play for the National Team
Modric scored a penalty goal and continues to be a key figure for the national squad, which will compete in the European Championship next summer if they qualify via the qualifications.
“As for Luka, he will make his own decision, which is the fairest thing,” Dali said at a press conference.
“He needs time to recover and for everything to calm down. Making decisions is difficult at the time. “I want him to stay, and everyone wants him to stay,” he continued.
Journalists at Marca predict that the “number 10” will no longer play for Croatia, but solely for Real Madrid.
During a press conference, when questioned about Modric, Spanish coach Luis de la Fuente professed affection for the Croatian player and added that he would want to see him play for as long as possible.
Modric has appeared in 166 Croatian matches and scored 24 goals. The only thing lacking from his career is a trophy with Croatia.
