Luka Modric is leaving Real Madrid after 13 years at the club but the decision has surprised Nikola Jerkan, who believes he had plenty still to offer.
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Modric will leave Real Madrid this summerCroatia captain wanted to extend contractNikola Jerkan adamant he had more to giveFollow GOAL on WhatsApp! 🟢📱WHAT HAPPENED?
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.
AdvertisementGetty ImagesTHE BIGGER PICTURE
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.
WHAT NIKOLA JERKAN SAID
In an interview with , 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."
GettyWHAT NEXT FOR LUKA MODRIC?
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.