Luka Modric Dismisses Retirement Talks Ahead of World Cup Clash with England

Ahead of Croatia's World Cup opener against England, Luka Modric has firmly dismissed retirement rumors, focusing solely on the tournament. The 40-year-old captain is determined to lead his team to their first World Cup title, emphasizing unity and support for younger players. Modric's experience and leadership will be crucial as Croatia faces a formidable English side. With a strong desire to make all Croatians proud, he is ready to prove that his team is not intimidated by their opponents. Discover more about Modric's insights and Croatia's ambitions in this exciting World Cup journey.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 16, 2026, 05:42 IST

Modric's Focus on World Cup Glory

As Croatia gears up for their FIFA World Cup opener against England, star player Luka Modric has firmly dismissed any speculation regarding his retirement, emphasizing his "exclusive focus" on the tournament. The 40-year-old captain expressed confidence, stating that his team is "not afraid of anyone" as they prepare to face the 1966 champions.

Modric, who currently plays for AC Milan, will lead his team against England, captained by Harry Kane, in Texas on Thursday. The midfielder has an impressive track record, having secured multiple La Liga titles and six UEFA Champions League trophies with Real Madrid between 2012 and 2025. Despite a disappointing loss in the 2018 World Cup final to France, he managed to clinch a bronze medal in the 2022 tournament in Qatar. His ambition now is to help Croatia achieve their first World Cup title after several near misses.

With his contract at AC Milan set to expire this summer, Modric has the option to extend for another year. Ahead of the match, he stated, "I am focused exclusively on the tournament because I want to help the team in the best possible way."

Approaching his 200th international cap, Modric does not view this tournament as a "last dance" for him in Croatian colors. The English squad boasts a formidable lineup, including stars like Harry Kane, Bukayo Saka, and Jude Bellingham, but Modric is ready for the challenge, asserting that his team will not be intimidated by England's reputation as a strong contender.

"We respect everyone, but we are not afraid of anyone. Now it is up to us to prove it on the pitch. We want to make all Croatians proud," he remarked.

Modric also highlighted Croatia's determination to compete for a trophy that has eluded them in the past, emphasizing the importance of unity within the team. "The greatest strength of Croatia in recent editions of the World Cup has always been unity, and it must be like that this time as well. We are not here to participate, to act as an extra. When the group is compact, we can compete with anyone," he explained.

As Croatia undergoes a transition, Modric sees himself as a bridge between the golden generation of the 2010s and the new emerging talents. He aims to provide younger players with the opportunity to shine without the burden of expectations. "We, more experienced players, must lend a hand to the young people, help them grow and transmit experience, quality, and character to them. Young people must feel free to show their qualities, and we must support them. A generational change is underway, but we want to continue winning and doing well as happened in the last two editions of the World Cup," Modric concluded.