The newly appointed head coach of the Vatreni shields Luka Modric, the Milan star, ahead of the Nations League commitments.

There is no doubt about Luka Modric’s international future. The champion and captain of Croatia has confirmed his intention to continue his path with his country’s national team and is regularly listed among the call‑ups by the new head coach Slaven Bilić for the Nations League group, which will see the Balkan side face Spain, England and the Czech Republic. Speaking at a press conference to present the upcoming official fixtures, the Croatian coach expressed deep respect for the Milan midfielder, outlining in detail the personalised plan for his physical management.

The importance of the playmaker and the coordinated usage plan with Milan

In describing the central role of the red‑and‑black number 14 inside the dressing room and on the pitch, the selector clarified that he does not intend to overload the player, agreeing on an intelligent management of his minutes on the field:

"He was the best on the field against Juventus. He is extremely important both on and off the pitch. He still has great passion for Croatia and the National team, so it is a positive situation for everyone. He will not play all four matches. He must follow a rhythm suitable for him and for us, similar to the one he maintains at Milan. We must respect him, because it is the best solution for everyone."

Unchanged passion and intelligent management for the good of Croatia

Modric’s intact enthusiasm is an invaluable asset for Bilić’s new course. The coach’s strategy is clear: preserve the playmaker’s athletic brilliance through a measured minute load, ensuring Croatia receives his immense quality in the crucial moments of the Nations League battles without negatively affecting his performance with the Milan shirt.