Modrić has not said his final word: At 40, he remains Croatia’s captain

Luka Modrić has decided that his Croatia career is not over. At 40, the national team captain has told coach Slaven Bilić and Croatian Football Federation president Marijan Kustić that he remains available for the new Nations League season.

Bilić will include Modrić on the squad list he plans to announce Monday, ahead of matches against the Czech Republic, Spain and England. Modrić has already made 202 appearances for Croatia, making him the country’s clear record holder.

The decision particularly pleased Bilić, who will work with Modrić again for the first time in 14 years. “Of course I am extremely happy with Luka’s decision, because we all know what he represents and what he means for Croatia, both on and off the pitch,” Bilić said. “I am especially pleased that after 14 years we will work together again and share the strong ambition of making Croatia a quality and successful team that can compete on equal terms with the best in the world.”

Modrić began his international career in March 2006 and has helped lead Croatia to the biggest achievements in its history. He captained the team that finished second at the 2018 World Cup and won bronze four years later.

Croatia faces a demanding start. It will visit the Czech Republic in Prague on Sept. 26, play Spain in Seville three days later, host England in Rijeka on Oct. 3, and meet Spain again in Split on Oct. 6. On Sept. 2, Modrić also received recognition in Milan, where he was selected for the ideal Serie A team for the 2025-26 season.

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Of course I am extremely happy with Luka’s decision, because we all know what he represents and what he means for Croatia, both on and off the pitch. I am especially pleased that after 14 years we will work together again and share the strong ambition of making Croatia a quality and successful team that can compete on equal terms with the best in the world.