Luke Modric was left visibly touched after an Italian journalist pleaded with him to 'never retire' from football. The Real Madrid icon's international future has been left hanging in the balance after Croatia were denied victory against Italy due to an equaliser in the eighth minute of injury time. Modric had already had the chance to put Croatia ahead but missed from the penalty spot thanks to a save from Gianluigi Donnarumma.
However the veteran redeemed himself when and became the oldest goalscorer in European Championship history with his second-half effort to put Croatia ahead, only for Italy to grab a 1-1 draw in the final seconds. That Italy goal meant that Croatia finished their Group B campaign in third position, leaving their hopes of reaching the last-16 in serious doubt. As a result, Modric was distraught at full-time after his penalty miss proved costly.
While it's possible that Croatia could qualify via the third-place table, there's a serious chance that Modric could have made his final appearance for his country. Modric has achieved legendary status in football having led Croatia to a runner-up and a third-place finish in the last two World Cups, respectively. In addition he has won four LaLiga titles, six Champions Leagues and five FIFA Club World Cups, along with the Ballon d'Or in 2018.
The 38-year-old faced the media after that last-gasp disappointment against Italy and was faced with a truly heartfelt question. The Italian journalist said: "Good evening .
