Coach Zlatko Dalic is confident that Luka Modric is still at the peak of his form and will continue to be a strong leader for the Croatian national team at the upcoming Euro.
Croatia coach Zlatko Dalic acknowledges that Luka Modric has seen a significant reduction in playing time at Real Madrid this season, but he expresses confidence in the national team captain nonetheless.
After announcing the squad of 26 players for Croatia's participation in the upcoming Euro 2024, which includes Luka Modric, Coach Zlatko Dalic expressed confidence that the iconic midfielder will shine in the tournament held in Germany.
"What do I think about Luka Modric playing fewer games this season? In my opinion, playing continuously is not a good choice for Luka; he needs regular rest to maintain his best form. This season, Modric has played less, but we still hope that he will be a pillar, the leader of the team in the upcoming Euro."
[caption id="attachment_5331" align="alignnone" width="600"] Luka Modric is aiming for Euro 2024 with Croatia. Image: Sportskeeda.[/caption]
Luka Modric is still considered a crucial factor for the Croatian national team. The 37-year-old midfielder has made 174 appearances for the team, scoring 24 goals and providing 29 assists.
Despite rumors of his retirement from the international stage after the Nations League last year, Modric continues to accompany Croatia. He was one of the key players who helped Croatia reach the 2018 World Cup final, where they lost 2-4 to France. His outstanding performance earned Modric the Ballon d'Or in 2018.
Zlatko Dalic also gave his assessment of Euro 2024, where Croatia finds themselves in a tough group and will have to face formidable teams like Spain and Italy.
"We know that we have high expectations and ambitions ahead of us, but we also have to acknowledge that many other national teams also have the potential to achieve success at the Euro. Our group is considered one of the toughest, with the current European champions (Italy), the Nations League champions (Spain), and Albania. It will be a big challenge."
[caption id="attachment_5330" align="alignnone" width="483"] 'Lukita' will continue to be the leader of the Croatian national team heading into Germany this summer. Image: X Madrid Xtra.[/caption]
"We have overcome the qualifiers to earn the right to participate in the Euro, and we don't want to put additional pressure on ourselves. Let's give it our all. We know there is no greater support than that from the Croatian fans. We understand they expect and believe in us, and we will do our best not to disappoint them."
At EURO 2024, Croatia is placed in Group B alongside Spain, Italy, and Albania. Croatia's opening match will be against Spain on June 3rd in Berlin. As a key figure, Modric is expected to once again lead Croatia to success in a major tournament.
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