Modric Plans to Play for Croatia Beyond 41st Birthday
Luka Modrić has decided that his Croatia story is not over yet. Modric plans to play for Croatia beyond his 41st birthday and continue representing the national team in the upcoming UEFA Nations League fixtures.
The Croatian midfielder, who turns 41 on September 9, remains determined to play international football despite being one of the oldest active players at the highest level. Reports on Saturday confirmed that Modrić has made himself available for Croatia’s upcoming Nations League campaign.
The decision will delight Croatia supporters, who have watched Modrić lead the national team for almost two decades.
Modric Plans to Play for Croatia Despite His Age
Modrić’s decision is remarkable because he is entering an age when most elite footballers have already retired from international football.
Born on September 9, 1985, Modrić will turn 41 this month. Yet his performances and importance to Croatia have allowed him to continue playing at a level that few midfielders have managed at his age.
He remains Croatia’s most-capped player and has been the central figure in one of the most successful periods in the country’s football history.
Is Modric Retired From Football?
No. Is Modric retired from football? The answer is no.
Modrić remains an active professional footballer with AC Milan and has also decided to continue his international career with Croatia.
AC Milan confirmed his continuation with the club for the 2026-27 season, while the latest reports indicate that he will also remain available for Croatia.
This means Modrić will continue balancing club football with international duties even after reaching his 41st birthday.
Did Modric Retire From International Football?
No, did Modric retire from international football? He has not.
There had been considerable speculation about whether the 2026 World Cup would be his final tournament with Croatia. Instead, Modrić has chosen to continue.
His decision means Croatia can still call on the experience of a player who has been at the heart of the national team since his international debut in 2006.
Modric and Croatia: A Remarkable International Career
Modrić’s relationship with Croatia has become one of the defining stories of modern international football.
He helped Croatia reach the 2018 FIFA World Cup final, where they finished runners-up to France. Four years later, Croatia reached the semi-finals of the 2022 World Cup and eventually claimed third place.
He was also part of Croatia’s run to the UEFA Nations League final stage, continuing to play a major role in the midfield despite his advancing age.
His leadership, passing range and ability to control the tempo remain valuable to Croatia.
Modric Croatia Legacy Continues
The phrase Modric Croatia has almost become synonymous with leadership and longevity.
Modrić has captained Croatia through several generations of players. From the era of Ivan Rakitić and Mario Mandžukić to the emergence of Joško Gvardiol, Martin Baturina and Petar Sučić, he has remained the team’s midfield reference point.
As of the latest available international records before the 2026 World Cup, Modrić had 194 appearances for Croatia, making him comfortably the country’s most-capped player.
His decision to continue gives him another opportunity to extend that record.
Will Modric Play at the Next Nations League?
Yes. Reports indicate that Modrić has confirmed his availability for the upcoming Nations League fixtures.
Croatia are expected to announce their squad shortly, with Modrić set to remain part of the national-team setup.
His exact role will ultimately depend on the coaching staff and match situation, but his experience makes him an important option for Croatia.
Will Modric Play at the 2030 World Cup?
The question will Modric play 2030 World Cup is already attracting attention.
At the 2030 World Cup, Modrić would be 44 years old. That makes an appearance highly unlikely, although his current decision shows that he is not ready to put a firm end date on his international career.
For now, his focus appears to be on continuing with Croatia rather than looking too far ahead.
Whether he reaches another World Cup will depend on his physical conditionperformances Croatia’s qualification and the decisions of the national-team coaching staff.
How Old Is Modric?
How old is Modric? Luka Modrić was born on September 9, 1985.
He turns 41 on September 9, 2026.
His longevity is particularly impressive for a midfielder because his game has always relied heavily on movement, intelligence, technical quality and the ability to control matches.
Rather than depending primarily on speed or physical strength, Modrić has adapted his game as he has aged.
Modric’s Ballon d’Or Legacy
Another major part of Modrić’s career is his Ballon d’Or achievement.
The Croatian became the first player other than Lionel Messi or Cristiano Ronaldo to win the men’s Ballon d’Or since 2007 when he claimed the award in 2018.
His Ballon d’Or victory followed an outstanding year in which he helped Real Madrid win the Champions League and Croatia reach their first-ever World Cup final.
That achievement remains one of the biggest individual honours ever won by a Croatian footballer.
What Makes Modric So Important to Croatia?
Modrić offers Croatia far more than experience.
His ability to receive the ball under pressure, turn away from opponents, find passing lanes and control the rhythm of a match makes him different from most players of his generation.
He also provides leadership in difficult moments.
For a relatively small football nation, having a player with his experience available during major international competitions can be a huge advantage.
Modric’s Wife and Family Life
The keyword Luka Modric wife is also frequently searched by fans interested in the footballer’s life away from the pitch.
Modrić is married to Vanja Bosnić, and the couple have three children. They have generally kept their family life relatively private despite Modrić’s global fame.
His family has been a consistent source of support throughout his long professional career.
Why Modric’s Decision Matters for Croatia
Croatia are entering another period of transition.
Several experienced players from the country’s golden generation have already left international football, while younger players are gradually taking greater responsibility.
Modrić’s decision allows Croatia to combine youth with one of the most experienced midfielders in world football.
His presence can also help younger midfielders learn what is required at international level.
What Comes Next for Luka Modric?
For now, the plan is simple: continue playing.
Modric plans to play for Croatia beyond his 41st birthday, meaning fans will get to see the legendary midfielder in the famous Croatian shirt for at least another international cycle.
Whether he eventually decides to retire after the Nations League, continue into another campaign or surprise everyone again remains unknown.
But one thing is clear: Luka Modrić is not ready to say goodbye to Croatia yet.
