While many players enjoy their vacations resting on paradisiacal beaches or traveling to luxury destinations, the Manchester City Croatian defense, Joško Gvardiol, has opted for a vacation Very unconventional, marked by adrenaline, patriotism and a deep personal symbolism. Far from the comfort of a resort, Gvardiol decided to immerse himself in an extreme experience: Train next to a special unit of the Croatian Army. And he took advantage of a tribute to one of his country's greatest football legends, Luka Modric.
For several days, the young central and side was part of an intensive training program with the elite group Commando Squad of the special forces of Croatia. This group, known for its demanding combat missions and war drills, submitted Gvardiol to situations that emulate real conflicts, with simulated fire, night operations, bailouts and missions on hostile land. The disseminated images show the player with a complete military uniform, gun in hand and camouflaged face, participating actively in tactical and survival exercises.
Beach? No gentlemen. Let's talk about Joško Gvardiol's holidays.
He was for a few days in training of the Croatian special forces where real missions and danger situations simulate.
And passed through the ruins of the house where Luka Modric grew in Zadar, which was … pic.twitter.com/N0nHPII5GZ
– Central Judge (@juezcentral) July 29, 2025
Gvardiol sopred the instructors
This experience was not a simple tour or leisure activity. Gvardiol was completely integrated into the rhythm of the command, sharing extreme physical training routines, teamwork and stress situations that are designed to Prepare soldiers for real war scenarios. According to local media, their commitment even surprised the instructors, who highlighted their discipline, mental strength and willingness to learn. For gvardiol, it was not only a physical challenge, but reconnect with the history of your country and give respect to those who defend it.
But the most emotional moment came during its passage through Zadar, a city marked by the war conflict of the 90s, when Croatia fought for its independence. There he visited the ruins of the house where Luka Modric grew, The idol of several Croatian generations and selection partner. The house, which was destroyed by the bombings during the Balkan War, has become a symbol of resilience and overcoming. Modric, who lived as a child the horror of war, managed to become one of the best midfielders in the world and in the heart of the Croatian team.
Gvardiol, deeply moved, left at the door of what that house was A number 10 t -shirt of the Croatia team, that of Luka Modric himself, as a tribute to its history and legacy. The image, which quickly went viral in social networks, was interpreted as an act of respect and admiration, but also as a way of laying a bridge between generations. Gvardiol, considered the heir to the leadership of figures such as the former Madrid player, demonstrates that he understands the weight of the Croatian shirt and what it means to represent it beyond the playing field.
