Luka Modric remains the undisputed leader of the Croatia national team at the age of 40, with the upcoming 2026 World Cup potentially serving as the final act of his extraordinary career. The captain and playmaker is the foundation of a side currently sitting second in their qualifying group with six points from three games, with their next challenge coming away to Czechia on September 26.
Modric's contribution at this stage of his career is varied. He not only leads the team on the pitch but sets the standard for a whole generation of younger players with his experience. He is currently balancing duties with the national team and the closing stages of his club career at AC Milan. "Modric continues to orchestrate Croatia’s midfield at 40 while balancing international duty with the closing stages of his club career at AC Milan," the player said.
A Generation of Veterans
The Croatian captain is not alone in proving that elite football can be played into one's forties. The story of longevity is repeating at the 2026 World Cup, to be held across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Japanese defender Yuto Nagatomo, who plays for FC Tokyo, is 39 and has 144 caps for his country. Uruguayan goalkeeper Fernando Muslera, after a brief retirement in 2024, returned for friendlies against England and Algeria in March 2026.
He is joined by other greats. German goalkeeper Manuel Neuer reversed his decision to retire internationally to feature in his fifth World Cup. Bosnian striker Edin Dzeko, his nation's all-time top scorer, helped Schalke secure promotion back to the Bundesliga. Mexican goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa will turn 41 during the tournament.
For Modric, a former Ballon d'Or winner, reports have circulated that the World Cup could be a logical point to conclude his playing days. This possibility adds further weight to every appearance he makes for the national team in this cycle. The team is in solid form, with three wins in their last five matches, including a 2-1 loss to Portugal last July. You can review all upcoming fixtures on our fixtures page.
Modric's potential departure would mark the end of an era for Croatian football. His role in securing the silver medal in Russia 2018 and the bronze in Qatar 2022 has made him a national symbol. As he approaches this tournament, his performance level remains high, which is key for an ambitious side looking to achieve another major result. The team's current standing and detailed statistics can be followed on the standings page.
Croatia enters the final phase of preparations with a clear purpose. The next step is an away trip to Prague, which will be an important test before heading to the major competition. With Modric as their leader, the team possesses invaluable experience that could make the difference in decisive moments. The full squad list and player profiles are available on the squad page.
The 2026 World Cup is set to become a farewell festival for some of the greatest legends of the modern game, and Luka Modric undoubtedly holds a central place in that story. His final match for Croatia could be played on the grandest possible stage.
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