Luka Modrić World Cup history and 2026 prospects
Luka Modrić arrives at the 2026 World Cup as a senior international with a long Croatia legacy. Captain in his final World Cup.
The 2026 tournament will be likely the final chapter for Luka Modrić on the international stage. Playing for Croatia with more than a decade of senior caps, Luka Modrić carries weight in both the dressing room and on the pitch.
Club form heading in
Luka Modrić plays for AC Milan domestically. Club performance through 2025–26 sets the tone for international call-ups, with coaches looking for match rhythm, minutes, and goal involvements (forwards) or chance creation (midfielders/wingers).
Position outlook
As a midfielder, Luka Modrić's job at the World Cup will be controlling tempo, transitioning between defence and attack, and supplying the final pass.
What to watch
- Pre-tournament friendlies (May–June 2026) where Luka Modrić will likely play.
- Final 26-player squad announcement (early June 2026).
- Croatia's first group-stage match — usually indicative of the coach's first XI.
Bottom line
Captain in his final World Cup. Watch the build-up window closely.