Jurčić warns: Modrić’s exit will be a massive shock for Croatia

Luka Modrić leaves the national team - what it means for Vatreni

Croatia’s national team has lost Luka Modrić. His departure from the national team, which will be officially confirmed in the coming days, will be a massive shock for the entire Croatian football, warns Kruno Jurčić. The last time Vatreni played was against Portugal on July 2, 2026, losing 2-1, which was their second straight defeat after three wins and two losses in their last five matches.

Jurčić, who has followed Modrić since his days at Inter Zaprešić, stresses that Luka was irreplaceable not only as a player but also as a leader who carried the national team for 20 years. His exit will be a tough blow, especially for new manager Slaven Bilić, who must keep Vatreni at the top without one of the greatest midfielders in history.

How Luka became a leader without ego

Modrić wasn’t born a leader; he grew into one of the most influential figures in Croatian football. His authority didn’t come from ego but from knowledge, self-confidence, and a character that always put the team first. Over the years, Luka became the one who resolved conflicts in the dressing room, protected teammates, and helped coaches like Zlatko Dalić stay focused.

Jurčić recalls how Modrić built his leadership through the years, from a quiet youngster to an undisputed authority. His character was different from most leaders - he never pushed himself to the front but always worked for the team. That’s why teammates loved having him around.

What will be the biggest void?

Modrić’s departure will leave a gap no club, not even Real Madrid, can fill, Jurčić insists. His impact wasn’t just on the pitch but off it too. He was the one who kept dressing room harmony with his authority, and that will be hard to replace.

For Vatreni, the challenge will be to stay at the top without Luka, especially after their last five matches ended with three wins and two losses. Their next test comes against Czechia on September 26, 2026, away from home.

Can Bilić keep Vatreni at the top?

Slaven Bilić faces a tough task - keeping Vatreni among the best without Luka. Jurčić believes Luka handled much of what coaches usually deal with, solving tensions and conflicts before they grew into bigger issues. Without him, Bilić will need to find new ways to maintain discipline and motivation in the dressing room.

Even though Luka has left the national team, his influence will be felt for a long time. His contribution to Croatian football, both on and off the pitch, leaves a mark that will be hard to replace. The last time Vatreni played was against Portugal on July 2, 2026, losing 2-1, which was their second straight defeat after three wins and two losses in their last five matches.