'Had the fuel to continue' - Luka Modric planned to retire at Real Madrid as Croatia coach reveals shock at Los Blancos' decision to release club legend

Modric will depart Santiago Bernabeu as the most decorated player in the history of the club with 28 trophies. The Croatia international is nearing 40 but as per Croatia national team coaching staff member, Nikola Jerkan, the midfielder wanted the journey to continue.

Modric had his contract extended for a year last summer. This summer, there were expectations at Madrid that they would extend the Croatian midfielder's contract again, but things didn't go as planned. According to Jerkan, sentiments at Madrid shifted, and talks of contract extension collapsed.

In an interview with Marca, Jerkan said: "I didn't expect it, Luka had the fuel to continue for another year and retire at Real Madrid. He wanted to stay, he had even spoken with Xabi Alonso about continuing. But something changed with the club leaders in the last few days. Real Madrid was his everything, but his football career isn't over yet."

Luka Modric's contract expires on June 30, 2025. While the player is still coming to terms with the end of his Madrid career, Los Blancos have already scouted his replacement. As per multiple reports, Madrid can look to offer Rodrygo plus cash deal for Chelsea's Enzo Fernandez. Real Madrid conclude their season on 24 May 2025, as they take on rivals Real Sociedad - Modric's last home game for Los Blancos.