Luka Modric is poised to extend his storied international career after being named in Croatia’s squad for the upcoming World Cup, setting the stage for his remarkable fifth appearance on football’s grandest stage. The 39-year-old captain, who has been the heartbeat of the national team for over a decade, was included in the final list on Monday, confirming his return to full fitness after a worrying injury setback.
Modric’s availability comes after a tense recovery period following a serious injury sustained on April 26 that prematurely ended his club season with AC Milan. The veteran midfielder had faced a race against time to regain match readiness, with initial fears that the knock could derail his World Cup dreams. However, medical assessments and his dedication in rehabilitation have paid off, allowing him to join the squad.
The inclusion marks a historic milestone, as Modric becomes one of the select few players in football history to participate in five World Cups. He joins an exclusive club that includes the likes of Lothar Matthäus, Gianluigi Buffon, and Lionel Messi. For Croatia, a nation of just over 4 million people, having a player of such longevity and consistency is a source of immense pride and a testament to his exceptional professionalism.
Modric’s World Cup journey began in 2006 in Germany, where he made his tournament debut as a 20-year-old. Over the subsequent editions, he has evolved from a promising talent into the team’s metronome, most notably captaining Croatia to the final in 2018. There, his sublime performances earned him the Golden Ball award, cementing his legacy despite the bitter loss to France. He also featured prominently in the 2022 tournament in Qatar, where Croatia secured a third-place finish.
This time around, expectations are tempered but still optimistic. Drawn into a challenging group, Croatia will rely heavily on Modric’s vision, passing range, and big-game experience to navigate the early stages. While his age raises legitimate questions about his capacity to dominate for 90 minutes every match, his ability to dictate tempo and unlock defenses remains unparalleled. Coach Zlatko Dalić is expected to manage his minutes carefully, perhaps deploying him in a deeper role to maximize his influence.
The injury at AC Milan had cast a shadow over his participation. After the April 26 incident, Modric missed the remaining Serie A fixtures, and there was speculation that his season—and possibly his international career—might be over. However, the Croatian captain has shown remarkable resilience, as he has throughout his career, arriving at the national team camp with a clean bill of health and a steely determination to lead his country once more.
Sources close to the team indicate that the coaching staff are thrilled to have their talisman back. “Luka is irreplaceable, not just for his technical quality but for the sense of calm he brings to the squad,” a federation spokesperson was quoted as saying. While no official statement has detailed his fitness regime, it is understood that Modric has been closely monitored by Croatia’s medical team and has participated in full training sessions without any complications.
Modric’s presence also serves as a bridge between generations within the squad. With emerging talents like Joško Gvardiol and Luka Sučić beginning to make their mark, the midfield maestro’s mentorship could be invaluable in transitioning the team toward a new era. His leadership on and off the pitch will be crucial in fostering a cohesive unit capable of punching above its weight.
For Modric personally, this World Cup represents perhaps the final chapter of an extraordinary international career. Having already achieved almost everything, including the Champions League titles with Real Madrid and the Ballon d’Or, another deep run in the tournament would further burnish his reputation as one of the all-time greats. The football world will be watching to see if he can once again conjure moments of magic on the biggest stage.
Croatia’s opening fixtures will test their mettle, and Modric’s form will be under intense scrutiny. If he can replicate his club form from earlier in the season—before the injury—he could be pivotal in outsmarting younger opponents. The midfield battles, in particular, will showcase his enduring class against the next generation of stars.
While the focus is firmly on the national team, his club situation at AC Milan will resume after the tournament. The injury curtailed his contributions there, but a strong World Cup could reignite his campaign and possibly extend his stay at the top level. For now, all attention is on donning the red-and-white checkers and leading Croatia with the poise and grit that have defined his career.
Based on reporting from ESPN.