Modric: I Want to Help Croatia in the Best Possible Way at the 2026 World Cup

Croatian midfielder Luka Modrić is determined to ignore retirement rumours, insisting that his focus is entirely on steering Croatia at the FIFA World Cup 2026.

Modrić currently captains the national side that will compete in the North America, Central America World Cup, where Croatia will face England, Panama and Ghana in the group stage.

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Despite speculation that this tournament could mark his final appearance, the veteran midfielder remains committed to delivering strong performances.

“I’m focused exclusively on the tournament because I want to help the team in the best possible way,” he told media.

Ahead of Croatia’s opening World Cup match against England, the team captain conveyed a confident message to the press: “We respect everyone, but we’re not afraid of anyone. Now it’s up to us to prove it on the pitch.”

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The World Cup remains a pivotal platform when discussing Modrić and Croatia. The nation has demonstrated its competitiveness on the global stage by finishing as runners‑up in the 2018 Russia World Cup and reaching the semifinals in the 2022 Qatar World Cup. In the 1998 France World Cup, the team also secured third place, led by Davor Suker.

Modrić currently plays for AC Milan, where he has been a key starter in Serie A. Although he has an option to extend his contract with Milan for another year, reports suggest he may be leaning toward retirement or a transition into an off‑field role, with clubs such as Real Madrid reportedly interested in bringing him back in a coaching or ambassadorial capacity.