While Modric will continue to star for Real Madrid in 2024-25, his fellow veteran and another lauded midfielder in Toni Kroos has seemingly played his final game for the 15-time European champions.

Despite being nearly five years Modric’s junior, Kroos has announced that he plans to retire after Euro 2024, explaining that he wants to hang up his boots while still performing at his best level.

However, Blancos boss Ancelotti has left the door open for the 34-year-old to change his mind, telling him that he is “waiting” for the call to confirm his desire to stay after all.

As Kroos bids farewell, his spot in the Real Madrid locker room could be taken by Kylian Mbappe, whose highly-anticipated move is expected to be confirmed in a matter of days.