Following the match, where Ronaldo was substituted, he demonstrated his profound respect for the Croatian captain, whose retirement from international duty remains in doubt. “I played many years with Modric, it’s great to see him still playing at top level,” Ronaldo told FOX Sports. “I told him: congrats Luka, good luck for the future of your career.”

It was a thrilling victory that stayed emotional until the final whistle. Even at the close of the match, Ronaldo was seen moved to tears while holding a Diogo Jota shirt, later explaining as to why he was so visibly emotional.

What’s next for Portugal

Portugal advance to the Round of 16, where they will face Spain, a highly formidable rival. The two sides previously clashed in the UEFA Nations League final, where the Portuguese emerged as champions, and this upcoming match is scheduled for July 6 at Dallas Stadium, where the Spaniards will be looking for revenge.

Cristiano Ronaldo remains completely focused ahead of the encounter, even though it could potentially be his final World Cup appearance, but he responded that he is not thinking about that right now.

“I don’t make reckless decisions,” Ronaldo told reporters postgame. “I will decide after the tournament, not now.” And with good reason. His sister made some comments regarding this before the match, and speculations have been swirling ever since.

Cristiano Ronaldo makes history

With the goal he scored today, Cristiano Ronaldo broke a record that not even Lionel Messi can achieve in this edition of the tournament. But beyond that, he snapped a drought that had persisted since his World Cup debut, finally netting his first-ever goal in the knockout stages.

But, as he mentioned prior to the World Cup, it marks the retirement of Luka Modri from Croatia, who cemented his status as an all-time great anchoring Real Madrid’s midfield and leading Croatia to the absolute pinnacle of global soccer.

Following a legendary, trophy-laden career at Real Madrid and the emotional end of an era with AC Milan last season, Modric has officially decided to hang up his boots. With his 41st birthday approaching in September and the physical demands of the game taking their toll, the iconic playmaker has chosen to call it a career.

Now, with Croatia eliminated from the World Cup and his playing days behind him, Modric will transition to life off the pitch. While his immediate focus shifts away from the field, a future in the game looms large, as speculation builds that the midfield maestro could soon transition into coaching or join the Croatian national team’s technical staff.

Modric’s career highlights and legacy

Modric permanently cemented his legacy during a legendary tenure with Real Madrid, defying expectations to transform from a heavily scrutinized £30 million signing out of Tottenham into the most decorated player in the club’s storied history.

Anchoring an iconic midfield trio alongside Casemiro and Toni Kroos, the Croatian maestro orchestrated the pitch to claim 28 major trophies with Los Blancos, highlighted by an incredible six UEFA Champions League titles.

His defining club moment arrived during the 2014 La Decima final, where his precise, 93rd-minute corner assist to Sergio Ramos rescued the match and ignited a modern era of European dominance. Modric’s masterful vision and signature trivela—the technical art of passing and shooting with the outside of the boot—became his calling card, defining a generation of elite midfield play.

Here is a look at his historic resume:

• 2018 Ballon d’Or winner: Broke the historic, decade-long stranglehold of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo to claim football’s ultimate individual honor.
• The FIFA Best Men’s Player & UEFA Player of the Year (2018) * IFFHS World’s Best Playmaker (2018)
• 6x UEFA Champions League champion: Tied for the most European Cup titles in football history.
• 28 major trophies: Stands alone as the most decorated player to ever wear the iconic Real Madrid kit.

Following the definitive outcome, Portugal are locked into a highly anticipated, border-rivalry clash against Spain in the next round, with the date and venue officially confirmed. Meanwhile, Modric heads home, finally getting a chance to step away from the pitch for some much-needed vacation time.

What makes those achievements even more impressive is the country’s size. With a population of fewer than four million people, Croatia has repeatedly produced elite talent capable of challenging much larger nations.

At the center of that success stands Luka Modric, widely regarded as the greatest player in Croatian soccer history and one of the finest midfielders of his generation.

Has Croatia ever won the World Cup?

No. Croatia has never won the World Cup. However, it has come remarkably close and has established itself as one of the most successful national teams of the modern era despite its relatively short history.

Croatia’s first great World Cup generation

Croatia announced itself to the soccer world at the 1998 FIFA World Cup in France. Led by legendary striker Davor Suker, the team reached the semifinals in its first-ever World Cup appearance as an independent nation before finishing third after defeating the Netherlands. That historic run immediately established Croatia as one of Europe’s emerging soccer powers.

What’s Croatia’s best performance in World Cup history?

When Luka Modric became the leader of the national team, many believed matching the success of 1998 would be nearly impossible. Instead, Croatia surpassed it.

At the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia, Croatia reached its first World Cup final after defeating Denmark, Russia, and England in the knockout stage. Although the team ultimately lost the final to France, it remains the greatest achievement in Croatian soccer history.

That unforgettable tournament also helped Luk Modric win the 2018 Ballon d’Or, ending the decade-long dominance of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. A remarkable year.

Croatia remained among the world’s elite

Croatia proved that its success was no fluke by delivering another outstanding campaign at the 2022 FIFA World Cup. The team advanced to the semifinals once again before being eliminated by Lionel Messi and eventual champion Argentina. Croatia bounced back by defeating Morocco in the third-place match to secure another World Cup medal.

Considering the country’s small population, its recent independence, and the fierce competition in both Europe and world soccer, Croatia’s World Cup legacy ranks among the most impressive international success stories of the modern era.

The injury occurred after an aerial collision with Manuel Locatelli during a match between AC Milan and Juventus in a Serie A game. This is the second match the player has played since his surgery.

Croatia want to once again be a team to watch at the upcoming World Cup. To achieve that, they will need their players to be in peak physical condition, including Modric.

Croatia prepare for the World Cup

In addition to their preparation match against Belgium, Croatia will continue their World Cup warm-up schedule with an international friendly against Slovenia this coming Sunday. The highly anticipated regional clash is set to take place at the Stadion Andelko Herjavec in Varazdin, serving as the final send-off match for the Vatreni before they depart for the tournament.

Croatia’s group at the World Cup

Croatia will compete in Group L at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, facing a highly competitive opening round across North America. The Vatreni will kick off their tournament with a heavyweight clash against England on June 17 at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.

Following that intense opener, they will travel north to face Panama on June 23 at BMO Field in Toronto, Canada, before wrapping up the group stage against Ghana on June 27 at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia.

In an official statement, Milan confirmed the end of the Croatian’s Serie A season before its scheduled conclusion on May 24. “The club wishes him a speedy recovery ahead of the World Cup,” the club added. The operation was described as “a total success,” according to Milan. “AC Milan announces that today, Luka Modric underwent surgery at the La Madonnina Clinic in Milan. Surgical intervention was required to treat a complex multifragmentary fracture of the left zygomatic bone,” the statement read.

“The operation, performed by the team of doctor Luca Autelitano in the presence of AC Milan doctors Stefano Mazzoni and Andrea Bulgheroni, was a total success,” it added. Modric suffered a fracture to his left cheekbone during Sunday’s match against Juventus, forcing him to undergo surgery just a month and a half before the start of the World Cup.

Croatia supports Modric

Croatia want to have available one of the best players in their history, a key figure who has led them to their greatest World Cup performances, including reaching the 2018 final where they lost against France.

“I have been speaking with Luka,” Croatia head coach Zlatko Dalic said on social media platform X through the national federation, “I wished him a successful surgery as well as a fast and quality recovery. I am convinced he will do everything possible to be ready for the FIFA World Cup, and we will provide him with full support. I trust the recovery will go as planned and that Luka, as team captain, will lead us in another major competition this summer.”

How did Modric get injured?

Modric had to leave the field in the final minutes of Sunday’s 0-0 draw against Juventus after suffering an injury during an aerial duel for the ball with opposing midfielder Manuel Locatelli.

The club did not specify how long Modric will be sidelined. However, only four matchdays remain before the end of the Serie A season. The main concern now is his availability for the World Cup. Croatia will begin their campaign by facing England in seven weeks on June 17. They will also play against Panama and Ghana in Group L.

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.