Real Madrid News
Real Madrid veteran does not rule out retirement if he wins the World Cup
Croatia begin their FIFA World Cup 2022 campaign tomorrow when they take on Morocco in Group F.
Led by Real Madrid veteran superstar Luka Modric, the Vatreni made it as far as the finals in the competition four years ago. And the 37-year-old midfielder, who had finished as the best player of the tournament back then, is looking forward to leading his team again.
“I feel very good. There is nervousness. Natural. I am excited to lead Croatia to a great tournament. As far as the team is concerned, I think we have worked well these five days. I’m healthy and ready, that’s the most important thing,” he said in a press conference (h/t MARCA).
Considering that he is already 37, there is a good chance that it will Modric’s final World Cup while the possibility of international retirement is also looming. When asked if he was thinking about calling it time on his international career after the World Cup, he said:
“Honestly, I feel good. I play almost everything with Real Madrid, I still feel good when I play football. I’m here at the World Cup to continue playing, to continue enjoying football. I don’t think about what will happen later.”
“I haven’t made a decision about it yet, I’m here to play a good tournament and that’s definitely what I have in mind. We’ll see what we do,” he added.
Modric’s former Real Madrid teammate and Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo insisted that he will retire if he won the World Cup. When asked if he would also consider doing that, Modric replied:
“If that’s what it takes for us to win, then I’ll say goodbye. We always give our all when we wear this jersey and I hope the fans are happy with us. We’re going to do our best.”
Modric’s club future is also a topic of discussion as his contract with Real Madrid expires at the end of the season. However, it is widely expected that he will renew his contract for another year. For now, the midfielder’s focus will be on the Croatian national team.
There is no secret that Real Madrid might consider a move for a new striker in the coming summer. With Karim Benzema slowly nearing the end of his career, the club are looking for a viable alternative ahead of the new season.
Carlo Ancelotti has been left impressed by the performances of Rodrygo in the centre forward position. But the club could still use the services of a more recognised option in the number nine position.
The Spanish giants are reportedly assessing La Liga for a potential low-cost option. But they are also open to looking through in other leagues, in their bid to add more depth in the attacking department.
To that end, Fabrizio Romano claims Real Madrid are eyeing a swoop for Roberto Firmino. The Liverpool star has become the latest player to be shortlisted by Los Blancos, with his current contract at Liverpool expiring at the end of the season.
Formerly of TSG Hoffenheim, Firmino has a stellar track record of performing in Europe. He has scored 110 goals in 361 competitive matches during his time at Liverpool, winning the Premier League and the Champions League title.
A centre forward by trade, Roberto is known for his tactical flexibility and the ability to shift into wider areas to build up the player.
It makes him an appealing target for Real Madrid, who would prefer a versatile striker in their ranks that can not only provide cover for Benzema but also the likes of Vinicius Junior and Rodrygo.
Real Madrid, though, are yet to hold any discussions with Roberto Firmino just yet. He has just been added to the list of targets and one would expect the Spanish giants to make a move once the season is over and the player becomes a free agent.
