After two decades of shining presence in the biggest global football events, legendary captain Luka Modric is preparing to take what could be the “last dance” in his international career, as he leads his country’s ambitions in the 2026 World Cup. Based on an exceptional career, during which he transformed the Croatian national team from an ambitious competitor into one of the most prominent footballing forces in the world, he has become a symbol of inspiration and determination in the history of the tournament.
Croatia's footballing journey was no accident. Since its independence, it has emerged as a force to be reckoned with, reaching its first peak with the golden generation of 1998 that finished third in the 1998 World Cup in France. But Luka Modric's generation went even further, building on this legacy and achieving unprecedented historical feats that have permanently cemented Croatia's place on the world football map.
Legendary career: How did Luka Modric bring glory to Croatia?
Modric's World Cup journey began in the 2006 edition in Germany, where he emerged as a promising young player with a team that exited in the group stage. The scenario repeated itself in the 2014 edition in Brazil, which also ended in an early exit. However, these early appearances served as the foundation for the character of the leader who would later dazzle the world.
The 2018 World Cup in Russia marked a turning point in his international career. Modric led Croatia's "golden generation" to a historic first-ever World Cup final, delivering outstanding performances that earned him the Golden Ball award for best player of the tournament, despite the loss to France. He proved to the world that talent and determination can overcome all odds.
Continuous leadership and defying time
At the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, despite his advancing age, the Croatian captain continued his influential presence, leading his national team to a third-place finish and the bronze medal after defeating Morocco. Modric won the Bronze Ball award as the third-best player, confirming that his brilliance has not faded with time. As he approaches the age of 40 by the 2026 World Cup, Modric is preparing to dedicate his vast experience to the national team in a new chapter, aiming to add a final chapter to one of the most remarkable international careers in modern football history, reaffirming that he is not just a player, but the beating heart upon which Croatia continues to rely.
