Bilić: “I’m Happy, I Can’t Wait to Work With Luka Again”

Luka Modrić will continue wearing Croatia’s national-team shirt, extending a career that has already made him the country’s record international appearance holder. The Croatian Football Federation confirmed the decision after Modrić spoke with coach Slaven Bilić and federation president Marijan Kustić.

Modrić made his Croatia debut in 2006 and has collected 202 appearances, along with 29 goals and 32 assists. He is set to begin a 21st season with the national team and remain available for the next Nations League campaign. His international career has included Croatia’s silver and bronze World Cup medals and a silver medal in the Nations League.

Bilić said he was delighted by the decision and emphasized Modrić’s importance on and off the field. “Of course, I am extremely happy about Luka’s decision because we all know what he represents and means for Croatia on and off the field,” Bilić said. “I am especially pleased that after 14 years we will work together again and share a strong ambition for Croatia to be competitive, successful and on an equal footing with the best in the world.”

Modrić is expected to be included in Bilić’s squad for matches against the Czech Republic, Spain and England. Croatia is scheduled to play the Czech Republic in Prague, Spain in Seville and Split, and England in Rijeka between September 26 and October 6. Before joining the national team, Modrić is due to play for Milan against Juventus, Lazio, Lecce and Benfica.

The workload has prompted questions about whether Modrić, who will turn 41 in three days, can sustain the pace. The article says he has repeatedly found renewed energy when playing for Croatia. His international ambitions also include moving closer to Lionel Messi’s 207 appearances for Argentina. Whether he continues through the 2028 European Championship remains undecided, as does his club future after his Milan contract expires in June.

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Of course, I am extremely happy about Luka’s decision because we all know what he represents and means for Croatia on and off the field. I am especially pleased that after 14 years we will work together again and share a strong ambition for Croatia to be competitive, successful and on an equal footing with the best in the world.