“Please never retreat.” After Croatia-Italy, Luka Modric shows up in the press room and is ‘overwhelmed’ by the unexpected tribute from Francesco Repice. The Radio Rai journalist pays tribute to the 38-year-old Croatian champion, scorer of the goal in the match which ended 1-1. “For everything you have shown on the pitch and in your career, thank you. I would like to ask you to never retire, you are one of the best players I have ever commented on,” says Repice.
“Thank you for this splendid tribute. I too would like to play forever, but the time will come to hang up my boots”, the player’s response, struck by the journalist’s words.
This was a truly beautiful moment in the post-match press conference #BBCEuros #Euro2024 #CROITA pic.twitter.com/K8VowAgm7m
— BBC Sport (@BBCSport) June 24, 2024