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Official: Luka Modric to keep playing for Croatia at 41
Priya Nambiar | September 6, 2026 2:25 AM CST

Luka Modric will continue to play for Croatia even at the age of 41, the Croatian Football Federation has officially confirmed, despite recent reports suggesting he could retire after a disappointing Serie A season and World Cup campaign over the past few months.

Modric, who turns 41 next week ahead of the next international break, has already committed himself to AC Milan for the 2026-27 season. It has now also been confirmed that he will carry on representing the Croatia national team during this campaign.

In Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, on June 27, Luka Modric celebrated Croatia’s 2-1 win over Ghana in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Group L match at Philadelphia Stadium.

In a statement released on Saturday, the Croatian Football Federation confirmed that Modric will be part of Slaven Bilic’s Croatia squad for the September-October international break, with the full squad list due to be announced on Monday.

Modric has confirmed that he will make himself available for Croatia’s entire upcoming Nations League campaign, provided he remains fit.

There had been speculation earlier this summer that Modric might retire after AC Milan failed to qualify for Champions League football at the end of last season, followed by a disappointing World Cup run that ended with a round of 32 defeat to Portugal.

Also in Philadelphia on June 27, Modric was seen during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Group L match between Croatia and Ghana at Philadelphia Stadium.

With his 41st birthday approaching, Modric’s remarkable career is set to go on. He currently stands third on the all-time list for appearances in men’s international football with 202 caps, behind only Lionel Messi on 207, who has just announced his retirement from international football, and Cristiano Ronaldo on 233.


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