In a recent interview with Corriere della Sera, the AC Milan midfielder was asked who he preferred between the Argentine and the Portuguese, providing a completely honest response. “That is a question I don’t like. They marked an era,” Modric said bluntly.

However, the Croatian did not stop there and went into detail about his choice. “I feel closer to Cristiano because I played with him; he was my teammate at Madrid,” Modric noted.

“I assure you he is not only a great footballer; he is an incredible person. People don’t know it, but he has an enormous heart, always ready to help others. And he is a simple and normal man,” the 40-year-old midfielder added when referring to what makes the Portuguese forward special.

Modric and Cristiano Ronaldo shared six seasons at Real Madrid, recording 222 matches together, during which the Portuguese star scored 14 goals assisted by the Croatian. Together, they conquered 13 titles, highlighted by four Champions Leagues, three Club World Cups, one La Liga title, and one Copa del Rey.

What does Modric think about Messi?

Modric’s decision to lean toward Cristiano Ronaldo was logical, given their significant connection during their time together in Spain. However, the Croatian also spoke about Messi, whom he faced on numerous occasions during the Argentine’s tenure with Barcelona.

While the midfielder admitted he does not know him personally, he did not hesitate to designate the Argentine as a magnificent player. “I don’t know him personally, but I have no doubt that he is also extraordinary. As a player, he is magnificent,” Modric noted regarding Messi.

Modric broke Messi and Ronaldo’s dominance

Luka Modric is considered one of the greatest midfielders in soccer history, a status cemented by his 2018 Ballon d’Or win. The Croatian claimed the prestigious award after winning the UEFA Champions League with Real Madrid and leading Croatia to the final of the 2018 FIFA World Cup.

Furthermore, this individual accolade carries even greater significance because it ended a historic streak maintained by Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. By 2018, the Argentine and the Portuguese stars had shared the Ballon d’Or for ten consecutive years, winning five each. However, their dominance finally came to an end with Modric’s breakthrough onto the podium.

After winning their first two group matches, Croatia approach their third game in control of the group. Head coach Zlatko Dalic has decided to rest Modric at the start for tactical reasons, though the AC Milan midfielder is expected to feature in the second half.

Modric came off the bench in the 7–0 win over Gibraltar before starting and scoring in the 5–1 victory against the Czech Republic. Against the Faroe Islands, however, midfield duties will fall to Inter Milan’s Petar Sucic and Atalanta’s Mario Pasalic.

Another storyline is the debut of 24-year-old Toni Fruk. The HNK Rijeka midfielder had previously been called up to the squad but will make his first appearance for the national team in this qualifier.

Croatia’s confirmed lineup

Croatia enter the qualifier with three key absences, as Josip Stanisic, Josko Gvardiol and Mateo Kovacic are sidelined through injury, forcing head coach Dalic to make changes in defense.

The confirmed starting XI to face the Faroe Islands is: Dominik Livakovic; Kristijan Jakic, Marin Pongracic, Duje Caleta-Car, Borna Sosa; Mario Pasalic, Petar Sucic, Lovro Majer, Andrej Kramaric, Toni Fruk; Ante Budimir.

Despite the disappointing season, the Spanish team wasted no time in reinforcing their roster, securing two major signings with the defender Dean Huijsen and the right back Trent Alexander-Arnold. Both stars are expected to play key roles in the competition. As five-time winners under the previous tournament format, Real Madrid arrive as strong favorites to lift the trophy once again.

Alonso’s appointment injected new energy into the fan base, but the former midfielder faces a steep challenge. With limited time to implement his system, Real Madrid’s identity under his leadership remains a work in progress. Luka’s departure only adds to the uncertainty heading into the FIFA Club World Cup 2025, raising questions about the team’s readiness for the global stage.

Is Luka Modric set to play for Real Madrid in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup?

Luka Modric may have announced his departure from Real Madrid, but his journey with the club is not over yet. The Croatian midfielder will stay with the team for the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, which will mark his final appearance with the historic side. According to reports, the Spanish club activated a one-month contract extension to secure his presence in the tournament.

His experience will play a crucial role in Real Madrid’s campaign. Modric has won everything with the club and remains one of the most creative midfielders in the team. He also played a key role in each of their five FIFA Club World Cup titles. At 39, he still managed to appear in 57 matches this season. He contributed nine assists and scored four goals. While he may face physical challenges, his leadership can strengthen the squad’s rotation.

Real Madrid schedule for the FIFA Club World Cup 2025

Amidst an unpredictable season, Real Madrid still enter the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup as a strong contender for the title. In Group H, they face Al Hilal on June 18. They then play host to Pachuca on June 22. Subsequently, they travel to face Red Bull Salzburg on June 26.

After having avoided historically dominant clubs in their group, many expect them to advance to the second round. This positions them well to secure their sixth championship in the competition’s history.

In a short 2024 interview with ESPN, a journalist handed Luka Modric an Argentina jersey from the 1994 World Cup. The jersey featured Diego Maradona’s iconic No. 10. Modric looked touched and responded with heartfelt words. “It’s a special jersey, thank you very much…It’s a joy to have this jersey, Diego (Maradona) is the greatest and you touched me, thank you.”

However, this was not the first time Modric praised Maradona. In 2017, while playing for Real Madrid against Napoli, Diego attended the game. The Croatian star seized the chance to honor him. “I’ve met Maradona and I’ve been with him several times, the last time at The Best gala. He is one of the best players in the history of soccer and we are very happy to see him in Madrid because he is an exceptional player who will see us live and a good person. Thank God he is not playing, we are happy for this.”

Although the Real Madrid midfielder did not call Cristiano Ronaldo the greatest of all time, that did not reflect poorly on their relationship. They played 222 matches together at Real Madrid and recorded 16 joint goal participations. In fact, the Croatian midfielder stated that the Portuguese is the best player in the Spanish club’s history, showcasing his respect to him.

When Luka announced he would not renew his contract with the club, Ronaldo showed his support. On Instagram, he commented Modric post with a touching farewell. “Thanks for everything, Luka It was an honor to share so many moments with you at the club. Wishing you all the best in what’s to come!“

How will Luka Modric’s departure impact Real Madrid’s plans for the 2025-26 season?

Real Madrid’s recent golden era featured a commanding midfield led by Casemiro, Toni Kroos, and Luka Modric. That trio defined the team’s identity for years. Now, with the Croatian star leaving the club at the end of the season, this legendary partnership becomes part of the history. As a result, the club will reportedly look for a new midfielder.

This season, Real Madrid clearly missed Toni Kroos. He was the team’s best organizer and dictated the rhythm of play. Moreover, Luka saw his influence decline significantly due to physical concerns. Because of that, the midfield looked fragile and lacked the dominance seen in past years. The absence of both leaders left the team struggling to impose itself in key matches.

Now, the last midfielder capable of dictating play is set to leave. Meanwhile, Jude Bellingham, Federico Valverde, and Eduardo Camavinga offer a box-to-box profile. Their style is dynamic but far from the traits of a true organizing midfielder.

As a result, incoming manager Xabi Alonso may target a new midfield capable of restoring balance, imposing control, and guiding a team that lacked throughout the 2024–25 season.

Following an emotional farewell during Real Madrid’s match against Real Sociedad, Modric appeared to shut down immediate hopes of a move to Miami. His post-match comments made it clear that his final act with the club will be to compete in the Club World Cup—casting doubt on a potential switch before the tournament.

According to transfer insider Fabrizio Romano, Modric stated: “I will be there, that will be my last dance with Madrid… we’ll go to USA to win that trophy.” He also confirmed that incoming head coach Xabi Alonso will lead the team into the tournament. The statement appears to end Inter Miami’s short-term hopes of acquiring the Croatian midfielder.

What a send-off it would be—Modric, a Ballon d’Or winner and one of Real Madrid‘s all-time greats, bidding farewell by chasing one final international title. His potential swan song in the United States mirrors the emotional departure of fellow Madrid icon Toni Kroos, who last year bowed out with a vintage performance in the UEFA Champions League.

Modric could reunite with Ronaldo

Adding intrigue to the upcoming Club World Cup is the possibility of Luka Modric facing a former teammate. Cristiano Ronaldo’s potential involvement has generated headlines in recent days, sparking global speculation. With top clubs preparing to compete, the spotlight has shifted toward whether the Portuguese star will also feature.

FIFA president Gianni Infantino fueled the fire during a livestream appearance on American influencer IShowSpeed’s platform. When asked about the Club World Cup, Infantino teased Ronaldo’s participation. “And Ronaldo might play for one of the teams at the Club World Cup,” he said.

IShowSpeed, caught off guard, pressed for confirmation: “Wait, so Ronaldo might be in the Club World Cup?” Infantino didn’t flinch, reaffirming, “Yeah, Cristiano Ronaldo might play at a Club World Cup. These are discussions with some clubs.” He even issued a call to action: “If any club is watching and is interested in hiring Ronaldo… who knows? There’s still some time. It would be fun.”

The future of Messi at Inter?

As Miami plots its future, attention also turns to Lionel Messi’s contract situation. The team’s struggles in recent weeks—including an early exit from the Concacaf Champions Cup—have only intensified questions about the Argentine star’s long-term plans. His current deal expires at the end of the MLS season.

Inter Miami head coach Javier Mascherano addressed the topic in a press conference last Friday. “As for Leo’s renewal, I’m not the one who has to decide,” he explained. “There’s a sporting department that’s in charge of answering those questions,” Mascherano said, per AS USA Latino on X.

“As a coach, what I want is for him to renew as soon as possible, for the news to come out as soon as possible—mostly to give peace of mind to the fans and everyone around the club,” Mascherano added. “We hope to have good news in the short term. But I’m not the sporting director, and I’m not involved in the negotiations, so I have no idea.”

Modric shared an emotional farewell message with fans on Instagram, thanking the Madridistas for over a decade of support. But what caught the most attention wasn’t just his words—it was the heartfelt reply from Cristiano Ronaldo, a player who shared countless memories and silverware with the Croatian maestro.

Cristiano kept it short, but the message carried weight. “Thanks for everything, Luka,” he wrote, followed by a pink heart emoji. “It was an honor to share so many moments with you at the club. Wishing you all the best in what’s to come!” Modric is expected to play his final match for Real Madrid this Saturday against Real Sociedad.

Modric leaves as one of the most decorated and respected players in the club’s history. He remains the only Croatian to ever win the Ballon d’Or, which he claimed in 2018 after a legendary campaign for both club and country. His departure signals the end of one of the last links to the club’s golden generation.

Real Madrid brought in Modric in 2012 from Tottenham Hotspur, and few could’ve imagined just how iconic his stay would become. Over 13 seasons, Modric displayed unrivaled professionalism, skill, and leadership, helping the club to multiple domestic and international titles.

Ronaldo and Modric: A legacy of success

From August 2012 to July 2018, Luka Modric and Cristiano Ronaldo formed one of the most lethal duos in soccer. Their chemistry helped shape one of the most dominant stretches in Real Madrid’s illustrious history, capturing 15 official titles together during those six years.

Internationally, they won four UEFA Champions League trophies (2013-14, 2015-16, 2016-17, 2017-18)—a modern soccer dynasty. Alongside that, they lifted three UEFA Super Cups and three FIFA Club World Cups, cementing Real Madrid’s place at the top of world soccer.

Domestically, the pair won one La Liga title together in 2016-17, though Ronaldo also had one from the 2011-12 season before Modric’s arrival. They also claimed a Copa del Rey in 2013-14, where Modric played a key midfield role, and won the 2017 Spanish Super Cup. Modric even made his debut appearance in the 2012 Super Cup just days after signing.

In total, Luka Modric and Cristiano Ronaldo won 15 major trophies together at Real Madrid. Their partnership, both tactically and emotionally, helped define a golden era for Los Blancos. As Modric prepares to turn the page, his legacy—like Cristiano’s—will remain etched in the club’s storied history.

Modric, one of Croatia’s greatest footballers, is the only player from his country to win the Ballon d’Or, an honor he earned after delivering one of the finest seasons of his career with Los Blancos.

Real Madrid signed Modric 13 years ago while he was playing for Tottenham Hotspur, and the midfielder has since demonstrated unwavering commitment to the club, helping deliver numerous titles along the way.

How many titles has Modric won with Real Madrid?

After 13 years with the club, Modric has won 28 major trophies, making him the most decorated player in Real Madrid history, according to the team’s official website. His most recent title came in December, when the club claimed the Intercontinental Cup.

He played a pivotal role in Real Madrid’s run of six UEFA Champions League titles, showcasing his exceptional vision and tactical awareness. With his ability to create space and elevate the play of those around him, Luka Modric cemented his status as one of the greatest players in the club’s storied history.

Modric announces final game with Real Madrid in message to fans

Modric took to social media to announce that this weekend’s match will be his final appearance for Real Madrid. In an emotional message, he reflected on his early years with the club and shared memories of the unforgettable moments he experienced alongside the fans, having won 28 trophies during his time with Los Merengues.

“Dear Madrid fans, Time has come. The moment I never wanted to come, but that’s football, and in life everything has a beginning and an end… On Saturday I will play my last match at the Santiago Bernabeu,” Modric wrote on his X account.

He added: “I arrived in 2012 with the desire to wear the shirt of the best team in the world and with the ambition to do big things, but I couldn’t imagine what came next. Playing at Real Madrid changed my life as a soccer player and as a person.“

But only a few seconds before that, the Real Madrid midfielder blew a perfect opportunity to break the deadlock by missing a penalty. Gianluigi Donnarumma guessed his intention, diving to his left to save the spot-kick after 54′. Fortunately, it didn’t take long for Modric to redeem himself.

The 38-year-old was seen in tears during the celebration as he went from almost blowing Croatia’s chance to advance in the Euros to scoring a goal that could hace seen his country qualify for the next round.

Croatia got their hearts broken in the dying seconds of the game though, with Zaccagni equalizing for Italy in stoppage time (90+8′). With this draw, Italy finish second in Group B, leaving Croatia third with just two points.

Video: Modric’s goal for Croatia vs Italy

When it looked like Donnarumma was preventing Croatia from taking the lead in Leipzig, Zlatko Dalic’s boys refused to throw in the towel and kept on looking for the opener, which came only a minute after Modric’s miss. And the veteran star got emotional during the celebration.

Modric becomes oldest scorer in Euro history

At 38 years and 289 days old, Modric became the oldest scorer in UEFA Euro history, surpassing Ivica Vastic of Poland. Besides, he joined Cristiano Ronaldo as the only players to score in four different Euros.

The seasoned midfielder now boasts 26 goals and 29 assists for Croatia, having made 178 international appearances since making his debut in 2006. Even at this stage of his career, Modric continues to write history. That’s why it was only fitting that fans recognized him with a standing ovation when Lovro Majer replaced Modric after 80′.

Zlatko Dalic leads a team full of stars such as Modric, Ivan Perisic, Josko Gvardiol, Marcelo Brozovic, Mateo Kovacic and Andrej Kramaric. However, age could be a key factor.

In their long awaited debut against Spain, Croatia were absolutely dominated and lost 3-0 at Berlin. It was a terrible performance that sparked many doubts regarding a veteran generation.

What happens if Croatia win against Albania in UEFA Euro 2024?

If Croatia get a win against Albania, they would reach three points in Group B sitting behind Spain (3 points) and Italy (3 points). Those two former World Champions face tomorrow at Gelsenkirchen.

In this scenario, the Croatian team would only need a tie with Italy in their final match to secure their spot in the Round of 16. It could be as second or their third place.

UEFA Euro 2024: What happens if Croatia lose against Albania today?

If Croatia lose to Albania in Group B of the UEFA Euro 2024, they could be really close of getting eliminated with zero points after two matches. As a consequence, Luka Modric and his teammates will have to beat Italy next Monday at Leipzig and even that might not be enough.

It’s important to remember that the first and second place of each group advance to the Round of 16, but, with only three points (if they manage to get a victory over Italy), Croatia would only aspire to a third place. The four best third places overall get a ticket to the next stage.

So, they will have to wait for the development of things in other groups to know their fate, but, there’s a major disadvantage for Dalic’s squad: goal difference. With no goals scored and four received, it’s going to be un uphill battle against the other third places.

The best scenario for Croatia will be Spain beating Italy in their pending match before the final game of Group B. That way, Spain will have 6 points, while Italy and Albania would have three.

In that case, if Croatia get a win over Italy and Spain defeat Albania, they could produce a three-way tie with three points. Then, the goal difference will determine the second and third place.

What happens if Croatia tie with Albania in UEFA Euro 2024?

If Croatia and Albania tie, that changes things completely for Dalic and his players. With one point in the tournament, they would at least control their destiny to get in as a best third place with a win over Italy the final game of the group (reaching 4 points).

After the failure in the Qatar 2022 World Cup, the Spanish team has renewed hopes winning the UEFA Nations League with coach Luis de la Fuente. However, the Croatian squad is a powerhouse and, two years ago, almost reached another final. Lionel Messi and Argentina stopped them.

Now, in the blockbuster matchup at Berlin, Spain showed the world why they could hoist the trophy with a 3-0 victory. The goals were scored by Alvaro Morata (29′), Fabian Ruiz (32′) and Dani Carvajal (45 +2′).

Spain vs Croatia: Highlights and goals

In the process, Toni Kroos has been a key player in midfield alongside Federico Valverde and Eduardo Camavinga. Meanwhile, even as a legendary veteran, Luka Modric is no longer a starter.

Kroos already confirmed he’ll be back with Germany to participate in the UEFA Euro 2024 at home, but Modric’s situation is a little bit different. Last summer, he had massive offers to play in Saudi Arabia where Cristiano Ronaldo is shining. The MLS could also be an option.

Carlo Ancelotti gets real on Toni Kroos and Luka Modric

This Saturday, before the match against Sevilla, Carlo Ancelotti admitted Toni Kroos is close of staying with Real Madrid. The German’s contract expires next June.

“I believe Toni is a very responsible person. He has a very clear idea of what his future will be and wants to stop the day his level has dropped. Until he sees that himself, I think he will continue. I’m not going to advise Kroos on what he has to do; he’s not my son. I can advise my son. He has all the mental capacity to choose what he wants in the future.”

In the case of Luka Modric, Ancelotti was hesitant with all the rumors pointing out at him offering the Croatian a position to work in his coaching staff in the 2024-2025 season.

It’s important to remember that the midfielder is 38-years old and might be looking for a final big contract in his career. Under the actual conditions, that could only happen in Saudi Arabia or the MLS.

“I don’t know what Modric will do in the future. I don’t usually discuss personal matters with the media. What everyone wants from Modric is for him to continue being a magnificent player as he has been and will be this season. Modric will choose his own future.”