At 40, Luka Modric is an exception to the rule, still defined by his on-field prowess. As he arrives at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, he carries the weight of an entire footballing era while continuing to defy expectations.
With nearly two decades of experience, Modric has evolved from a technically gifted midfielder into one of the most respected players of his generation. His vision, composure, and ability to dictate the rhythm of a match have remained the hallmarks of his enduring influence.
Modric is on the verge of reaching 200 international caps for Croatia and is looking to achieve this milestone by getting past the group stage. His greatest World Cup moment came in 2018, where he captained his country to the final, winning the Golden Ball for his midfield masterclass.
Despite retirement rumours surrounding him every year, Modric continues to prove his doubters wrong, answering them on the pitch. With a new generation of talent emerging in Croatia's squad, Modric remains the link between the past and future, controlling matches through positioning, awareness, and passing accuracy.
