According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Bilić, who has returned to his position as Croatia's national team coach, met with L. Modrić and persuaded him to continue playing for the national team. The player will make a decision in the coming days.

L. Modrić's future with the national team has become a "chess match" once again. Bilić was reappointed as Croatia's head coach a month ago, having previously managed the team from 2006 to 2012. Upon taking office, Bilić stated: "One of the first things I will do is talk to L. Modrić, and I hope he will continue playing for the national team."

A few days ago, Bilić followed through on his words, and both sides met. Bilić hopes that L. Modrić will continue to wear Croatia's checkered jersey. L. Modrić must make a decision in the coming days, as he has never officially announced his retirement from Croatia's national team following the World Cup. This decision is also important for Milan. L. Modrić will turn 39 in September, and the prospect of constantly traveling with high intensity between league matches, cup matches, and international fixtures is not encouraging.

The relationship between L. Modrić and Bilić is special. Bilić first took charge of Croatia as head coach on August 16, 2006, with Italy as their first opponent. In that match, L. Modrić scored his debut goal for Croatia. They essentially started together and worked together for six years. Although they later parted ways, their bond has never been broken. Eight months ago, L. Modrić even gave Bilić an interview lasting 1 hour and 40 minutes. For L. Modrić, continuing to play for Croatia has always been an option; wearing this jersey, he has played in one World Cup final and one World Cup semifinal.

Of course, Milan's schedule also deserves attention. Until the end of August, Milan will play two more Serie A matches, against Torino and Venice respectively. In September, Milan will play 3 Serie A matches and the first Europa League match. After the autumn international break, the schedule will intensify significantly: Croatia will play Czech Republic on September 26, Spain on September 29, England on October 3, and then host Spain again on October 6. The league resumes on October 11, and then between October 15 and November 5, Milan will play 3 more Europa League matches. In short, there will be a match every 3-4 days, plus two national team matches in November. L. Modrić can certainly follow his heart, but adequate rest during international breaks also has practical importance.

L. Modrić will make a decision in the coming days, while family relocation to Milan has already occurred. Four months ago, L. Modrić's daughter, Ema, impressed Milan fans with a photo in which she won a giant trophy with Milan's U13 team, but next year she will live elsewhere. For educational reasons, the Modrić family will live in Madrid rather than Milan. There will always be opportunities to return in the future: this father, who grew up in photos in Milan training gear, has waited a very long time.

Переведено ИИ.

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