Luka Modric to Continue Croatia Career at 41, Extending His International Journey

Luka Modric is not ready to call time on his international career just yet. The Croatia captain has decided to continue representing his country even after turning 41, with the veteran midfielder set to remain available for the upcoming UEFA Nations League campaign.

Modric's international future had been uncertain following Croatia's elimination from the 2026 World Cup. Croatia were knocked out by Portugal in the round of 32 in July, leading to widespread speculation that the tournament could mark the end of the midfielder's remarkable international career.

However, the Croatian Football Federation confirmed on Saturday that Modric has informed head coach Slaven Bilic and federation president Marijan Kustic of his decision to remain available for the national team. Modric will turn 41 on Wednesday.

The decision has delighted Bilic, who has returned for a second spell as Croatia's head coach. The former West Ham and Besiktas manager previously led the national team between 2006 and 2012 and played an important role in the early stages of Modric's international career.

“Of course, I am extremely happy with Luka's decision because we all know what he represents and means for Croatia, both on and off the pitch,” Bilic said. He also expressed his excitement at working with Modric again after 14 years.

Modric made his Croatia debut in March 2006 and has since earned 202 international appearances. He has been at the heart of the country's greatest achievements, captaining Croatia to the 2018 World Cup final and helping them finish third at the 2022 tournament in Qatar.

His greatest individual achievement came in Russia in 2018, when he won the Golden Ball after leading Croatia to their first-ever World Cup final. Croatia eventually lost the final to France, but Modric's performances cemented his status as one of the finest midfielders of his generation.

At club level, Modric spent the majority of his illustrious career at Real Madrid before joining AC Milan in 2025. Even after turning 40, the Ballon d'Or winner has continued to compete at the highest level of European football.

Croatia's Nations League campaign will begin on September 26 against Czechia in Prague. They will then face Spain on September 29, England on October 3 and Spain again on October 6.

Bilic is scheduled to announce his squad on Monday, with Modric expected to be included. At an age when most players have already retired from international football, the Croatian legend is preparing for another chapter in his extraordinary career.