Dalic calls Modric retirement ‘a pity’ for all football fans
Following Croatia’s semi-final loss against Argentina, the international future of Luka Modric is in doubt.
Croatia boss Zlatko Dalic has deemed Luka Modric’s retirement from international duty “ a pity” for all football fans.
The 2018 Ballon d’Or winner took part in his fifth World Cup campaign, having already led the Chequered Ones to a World Cup final as well as a semi-final. But with
Modricbeing 37-years-old, there is growing certainty that this will be his last World Cup appearance and even last caps for Croatia.
"He was very disappointed yesterday, the defeat and the game were hard on him,"
Dalic said.
"It's logical that he feels that way, it was really hard for him.
"Our concentration is on the game on Saturday, we haven't talked about that [retirement]. We have to prepare for that game.
"I hope he stays in the national team. Of course, he will decide himself. We have a game on Saturday and we'll talk after that.
"If Luka says goodbye to the national team, it will be a pity and regret for all the fans around the world. He showed so much good football, but he also proved to be a top professional.
"When he wins and when he loses, he behaves like a true professional. It is difficult for him, and he will make his own decision.
"It will be difficult for me, too, if he decides otherwise. The whole world respects Modric. It would be nice if he continued."
Despite the penalty controversy surrounding the semi-final against Croatia and Argentina, Modric has wished Messi could go on and win the World Cup which drew comments from Dalic.
"The most difficult thing is to remain dignified in defeat. It shows the greatness of Luka Modric to congratulate them all, and it is difficult for him, as well as for all our players,"
Dalic added.
"That gesture shows that we are big. When the French bowed to us in Moscow, that's a gesture that makes you happy.
Croatiais still worth something in world football."
Whatever Modric future may be, Dalic has revealed his intention of staying on as Croatia manager for their upcoming Euro 2024 qualification campaign.
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