Mansion Sports – Real Madrid legend Luka Modric has revealed how difficult it was to compete against Lionel Messi throughout their storied careers in Spain and on the international stage.

After the former Barcelona captain decided to retire from international duty with Argentina, the current AC Milan midfielder paid an emotional tribute to his longtime rival.

The long-running story between the two great players has finally entered a new chapter. For years, Modric and Messi stood on opposite sides in a number of important matches, both while representing their respective clubs and their countries.

Now, after Messi has ended his international journey, Modric has chosen to look back on their rivalry with immense respect.

The End of an Era

Messi ended his legendary 21-year international journey at Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires.

The 39-year-old concluded his Argentina career with an outstanding performance, providing two assists and scoring a 71st-minute penalty in La Albiceleste’s convincing 3-0 victory over Benin.

The final goal from the Inter Miami star was his 126th for his country. The emotional farewell came after he finally ended his long wait for glory at the global level by lifting the 2022 World Cup trophy in Qatar, an achievement that ultimately further cemented his legacy on the international stage.

Modric, who has faced Messi 27 times in domestic and international matches, has a slightly less favorable record against the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner.

Across those meetings, the Croatian has recorded 10 wins and five draws, while suffering 12 defeats.

The Highest Respect

Speaking to Cadena SER, Modric offered high praise for his longtime rival. The AC Milan playmaker acknowledged how difficult it was to face the Barcelona legend during their dominant years in La Liga, putting their historic rivalry aside to highlight Messi’s unique qualities that few, if any, other players possess.

“What can I say about him? It is a shame that he has retired, but it was his decision and we have to respect it,” Modric said. “He has achieved something extraordinary with the national team; he has won the World Cup that he wanted so much.”

The Croatian continued: “He is one of the best players in the world, a player like no other, and it is a pleasure to watch him play, even though I have suffered a lot when facing him, both with Croatia and Real Madrid. I wish him all the best.”

An Emotional Farewell

Modric’s tribute came after Messi’s tearful farewell speech in Argentina.

The veteran forward struggled to hold back his emotions while speaking to the supporters, dedicating the bittersweet moment to his late father, Jorge, who passed away in August.

“This is very emotional. Of course, the first thing I thought about was my father,” Messi told the crowd. “All that is left for me to do is say thank you. It means so much to me to have worn this shirt for 20 years. I never stopped trying, fighting, or wanting to be here.”

Acknowledging how difficult the decision to leave the national team was, he added: “Not coming back will be a great sadness. I want to come back forever, because playing in Argentina is the most extraordinary thing that can happen to someone.”

Returning to Club Duty

With his illustrious international career now over, Messi will return to the United States to fully focus on his club duties with Inter Miami.

Reduced physical demands from South American travel and international breaks could help him conserve energy and extend his club career.

Meanwhile, Modric continues the final chapter of his own career in Italy. The midfield maestro will look to help AC Milan win trophies in Serie A, while leaving behind one of the most iconic individual rivalries in modern football.

Messi’s journey with Argentina has now reached its conclusion, but the rivalry and mutual respect with opponents such as Modric will remain part of the greater story of his career.

For Modric himself, facing Messi may have brought plenty of difficulties on the pitch, but after years of being opponents, what remains is respect for a player who has achieved so many extraordinary things.