The Croatian football federation has officially announced that veteran midfielder Luka Modric will extend his illustrious international career with the Croatia national team at the age of 41. This decision comes amid speculation surrounding his potential retirement following a challenging season with AC Milan and a disappointing World Cup performance.
Modric, who is set to celebrate his 41st birthday next week, has already committed to playing with AC Milan through the 2026-27 season. Now, he will also don the Croatian jersey for the upcoming Nations League campaign, which is a significant development for both the player and the national team.
In a statement released on Saturday, the Croatian FA confirmed that Modric will be included in Slaven Bilic’s national team squad for the international break scheduled for September and October. The complete squad announcement is expected to be made on Monday, but Modric's participation is already a highlight for fans and teammates alike.
Despite earlier concerns that Modric might retire after missing out on Champions League football with Milan and facing an early exit from the World Cup, he has reaffirmed his commitment to the national side. Croatia's World Cup journey in 2026 ended in disappointment, as they were eliminated in the round of 32 by Portugal, which raised questions about the future of several veteran players.
With 202 caps to his name, Modric ranks as the third all-time appearance holder for national teams globally, trailing only Lionel Messi, who recently announced his retirement from international duty, and Cristiano Ronaldo. This remarkable achievement underscores Modric's longevity and dedication to the sport.
As he prepares to lead Croatia in the Nations League, Modric's experience and skill will be invaluable to the team. His continued presence not only boosts the squad's morale but also provides a wealth of knowledge to younger players. With his storied career still ongoing, fans will be eager to see how Modric performs in the upcoming matches and what legacy he will continue to build in Croatian football.
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