Luka Modrić has brushed aside speculation about retirement, insisting his mind is fixed solely on helping Croatia perform at the FIFA World Cup 2026.

The Croatia captain will lead his side into Group Stage action against England, Panama, and Ghana in the North America and Central America-hosted tournament. Despite widespread reports suggesting this could be his last major international tournament, Modrić remains resolute.

"I'm focused exclusively on the tournament because I want to help the team in the best possible way," he told the media.

Ahead of Croatia's opening match against England, Modrić struck a confident but respectful tone: "We respect everyone, but we're not afraid of anyone. Now it's up to us to prove it on the pitch."

Croatia's World Cup legacy

The tournament holds enormous significance for both Modrić and his country. Croatia reached the final of the 2018 Russia World Cup, finishing as runners-up, before making the semifinals at the 2022 Qatar World Cup. The nation's proud World Cup history stretches back to France 1998, where a team led by Davor Šuker claimed third place.

What next for Modrić off the pitch?

At club level, Modrić has established himself as a key starter for AC Milan in Serie A. Although he holds an option to extend his stay in Milan by a further year, reports indicate he is weighing retirement or a move into an off-field capacity. Real Madrid are among the clubs said to be exploring the possibility of bringing him back in a coaching or ambassadorial role.

For now, however, Modrić's attention is directed squarely at the World Cup — and at giving Croatia every chance of making another deep run in the competition.