The Real Madrid world was sadly rocked with news of the Toni Kroos retirement at the end of the season. The Germany midfielder announced that after the EURO 2024 competition, he would hang up his boots from both club and international football.
He has already played his final game as a Real Madrid player, providing an assist to help win the Champions League final against Borussia Dortmund. While his legacy was never up for question heading into this final, his magnificent display only secured Toni Kroos' places among the Real Madrid greats.
His Real Madrid teammate has sadly but understandably hinted at his looming retirement.
Another Real Madrid player follows Toni Kroos with retirement hint
According to Fabrizio Romano on X (formerly Twitter), Luka Modric spoke out on the harsh nature of the sport after Croatia were all but eliminated from EURO 2024. Modric scored the opening goal in the match against Italy, making him the oldest goal-scorer in EURO history. However, Italy scored a late equaliser, which seemingly knocked Croatia out of the competition.
In his own words, Modric said: “Football can be very cruel… I want to play football forever, but we know that this is impossible. One day I will have to announce my retirement from playing, but I do not know when that will be”.
It is something that Real Madrid fans must prepare for. The incredible longevity of Luka Modric is something which should be applauded as he has exceeded expectations already by ageing like a fine wine. However, it is natural at this stage of a player's career to contemplate retirement.
The good news for Real Madrid fans is that they will get at least one more season out of Luka Modric. Whether or not the Croatian midfielder deems the end of the 2024/25 season as the time to hang up his boots remains to be seen but thinking in the moment, we can at least enjoy one more season from the club legend.
When do you think Luka Modric will retire from football?