Bold Decision: 39-year-old Luka Modric talks about his retirement plans

Real Madrid legend Luka Modric has opened up on his retirement plans as the talented midfielder continue to play at the highest level for club and country.

Modric played the entire ninety minutes of the UEFA Nations League encounter between Croatia and Poland, helping his nation secure a narrow 1-0 victory.

The 39-year-old midfielder performance on the night was outstanding as he scored the winner while maintaining a pass completion rate of 94%. Modric also created five chances, thus emerging as one of Croatia’s prime sources of creativity.

Speaking after the match, Modric was asked about the prospect of retirement.

The Real Madrid star offered a rather diplomatic response, suggesting that he is taking each game individually.

“With me, you never know. We have to take it game by game. I can’t think about the future. When I no longer feel the fire in me, I’ll retire. Only I can feel that fire and make the decision,” Modric said (h/t Fabrizio Romano).

Modric’s contract with Real Madrid will expire at the end of the season and it’s unlikely he will be offered a new deal. However, there is a possibility Modric might consider continuing his career, at least until the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The 39-year-old is ranked among the best players of his generation and there are clear indication he will play on until his body says No.