Luka Modric fast-tracks retirement decision after AC Milan collapse before 2026 World Cup

All eyes were on Luka Modric on Sunday as AC Milan fell to Cagliari, officially ending the Rossoneri’s hopes of qualifying for the Champions League. The disappointing result may also have pushed the Croatian midfielder toward the biggest decision of his career.

According to Italian journalist Nicolo Schira, Modric is now close to announcing his retirement from professional soccer. After several days of reflection, the former Real Madrid star is reportedly leaning toward walking away from the game rather than continuing for another season.

Modric’s contract with Milan is expiring, and the condition he had reportedly placed before club executives was simple: qualification for the Champions League. Milan, eager to keep him, could not deliver.

Milan turmoil changes everything

The club will now spend another year outside Europe’s elite competition, triggering major upheaval behind the scenes. RedBird Capital, Milan’s owners, released an official statement confirming sweeping changes within the club structure, including the dismissal of manager Massimiliano Allegri and several senior executives. Zlatan Ibrahimovic remains in his role.

Those developments appear to have heavily influenced Modric’s thinking.

Despite turning 40, the Ballon d’Or winner remained an important figure in the squad. He had settled comfortably into life in Italy, was highly respected by fans, and had fully adapted with his family to Milan. His daughter, Ema Modric, has also reportedly enjoyed success playing for Milan’s Under-13 girls team.

World Cup could be Modric’s farewell

Modric does not have much time to inform Milan of his final decision. In just a few days, he will join Croatia ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, Mexico, and Canada.

The midfielder reportedly wants to arrive fully focused on the tournament, meaning an official farewell announcement could come soon. Milan officials are still attempting to convince him to stay, but according to Tuttosport, “the disappointment is enormous, and the situation has overwhelmed him.”

Croatia will play pre-World Cup friendlies against Slovenia and Belgium before opening its tournament on June 17 against England. The Croatians then face Panama on June 24 before closing the group stage against Ghana on June 27.

Those matches could mark the final appearances of Luka Modric’s extraordinary career.

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