Luka Modrić Set to End an Era With Croatia While Extending His Club Career

One of international football's greatest careers appears to be approaching its emotional conclusion.

Luka Modrić retirement from the Croatia national team is now increasingly expected after the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with multiple reports indicating that the legendary midfielder intends to bring the curtain down on an extraordinary international journey once Croatia's tournament ends. At the same time, the Croatian captain is reportedly set to continue playing at club level after reaching an agreement in principle over a new contract with AC Milan, extending his stay at San Siro until June 2027.

For football supporters, it represents the beginning of the final chapter for a player widely regarded as one of the finest midfielders of the modern era.

AC Milan Determined to Keep Their Veteran Leader

Despite turning 40 during the 2026–27 season, Modrić continues to prove that age has not diminished his influence.

Italian reports claim AC Milan have finalised plans to keep the Croatian for another campaign after an impressive first season in Serie A. The new deal is expected to run until 30 June 2027, rewarding performances that have convinced the Rossoneri hierarchy he remains an essential figure both on and off the pitch.

Club executives reportedly value not only his technical quality but also his leadership inside a relatively youthful dressing room.

Having originally signed on a one-year deal with an option for another season, Milan have now moved to secure his future following his successful adaptation to Italian football. 

Croatia Prepare to Say Goodbye to Their Greatest Captain

If confirmed, Luka Modrić retirement from international football would end one of the most remarkable careers ever enjoyed by a Croatian player.

Since making his debut in 2006, Modrić has become Croatia's all-time appearance leader, captaining the national team through its most successful period.

His leadership helped Croatia reach:

• 🥈 2018 FIFA World Cup Final
• 🥉 2022 FIFA World Cup Third Place
• 🏆 UEFA Nations League Final (2023)

Even during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Modrić remained one of Zlatko Dalić's most trusted players, once again demonstrating the vision, composure and intelligence that have defined his career. 

Not an Official Announcement—Yet

While widespread reports indicate that Modrić plans to step away from international football after the World Cup, the player has not yet officially announced his retirement from Croatia.

Likewise, AC Milan have not yet formally confirmed the reported contract extension, although multiple Italian outlets say only the official signing remains before the agreement is announced.

That means supporters may still have one final opportunity to watch the Croatian legend lead his country before an official farewell is delivered.

A Legacy Few Players Will Ever Match

When Luka Modrić retirement from the Croatia national team is eventually confirmed, it will mark the end of one of the greatest international careers football has ever witnessed.

For nearly two decades, Modrić has been the heartbeat of Croatian football, transforming a nation of just under four million people into one of the world's most respected footballing powers.

From his debut in 2006 to captaining Croatia on the biggest stages, the midfield maestro has consistently delivered performances that combined elegance, intelligence and relentless determination.

His influence extended far beyond statistics. He became the player teammates looked to in moments of pressure, the captain who inspired belief when the odds were stacked against Croatia, and the leader who elevated an entire generation of footballers.

An Extraordinary Trophy Collection

Very few midfielders in football history can match Luka Modrić's list of honours.

With Real Madrid

Before joining AC Milan, Modrić enjoyed one of the most successful club careers ever recorded.

His achievements include:

• 🏆 6 UEFA Champions League titles
• 🏆 5 FIFA Club World Cups
• 🏆 5 UEFA Super Cups
• 🏆 4 La Liga titles
• 🏆 2 Copa del Rey trophies
• 🏆 5 Spanish Super Cups

Individually, he reached the pinnacle of world football by winning the 2018 Ballon d'Or, ending the decade-long dominance of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.

That same year he was also crowned:

• FIFA The Best Men's Player
• UEFA Men's Player of the Year
• World Cup Golden Ball winner

Those awards cemented Modrić's status as one of the greatest midfielders the sport has ever produced.

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Why Milan Want Him for Another Season

Many expected Modrić's move to AC Milan to be a short farewell chapter.

Instead, the Croatian has continued to prove his class in Serie A.

His technical quality, positional awareness and ability to dictate the tempo of matches have made him one of Milan's most influential players despite being among the oldest footballers in Europe's top leagues.

Perhaps even more important has been his leadership.

Milan's young midfielders have reportedly benefited enormously from training alongside a player who has spent years competing under elite managers including José Mourinho, Carlo Ancelotti and Zinedine Zidane.

By extending his contract, Milan are investing not only in a footballer but also in a mentor capable of accelerating the development of the club's next generation.

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What Croatia Lose

Replacing Luka Modrić will be almost impossible.

Croatia possess talented young midfielders ready to step forward, but replacing the experience, leadership and composure of their captain is another challenge entirely.

For years, Modrić has been Croatia's tactical reference point:

• Controlling possession under pressure.
• Breaking opposition lines with defence-splitting passes.
• Leading the team's pressing structure.
• Providing calm in the biggest moments.

His retirement will signal the beginning of a new era for head coach Zlatko Dalić, who must now reshape the midfield around a younger core while preserving the winning mentality Modrić helped establish.

The End of an International Era—Not a Footballing One

Although his international career appears to be nearing its conclusion, Luka Modrić retirement from Croatia does not mean the end of his playing days.

By continuing with AC Milan, the veteran midfielder will have the opportunity to compete for major trophies while carefully managing his workload away from the demands of international football.

It is a decision that reflects both ambition and realism.

Rather than stepping away completely, Modrić is choosing to prolong a career that continues to defy expectations.