will modric play 2026 world cup

2 min read 15-03-2025

Will Modrić Play in the 2026 World Cup? A Look at the Possibilities

Meta Description: Will Luka Modrić grace the 2026 World Cup stage? We analyze his age, current form, and future plans to explore this captivating question. Discover the factors influencing his potential participation! (158 characters)

Title Tag: Modrić 2026 World Cup: Will He Play?

Luka Modrić, the midfield maestro and Croatian legend, continues to defy expectations. At an age where most footballers are considering retirement, Modrić remains a pivotal player for both Real Madrid and the Croatian national team. But the question on every football fan's mind is: will he play in the 2026 World Cup?

Modrić's Age and Current Form

The 2026 World Cup will take place when Modrić will be 39 years old. This is undoubtedly a significant factor. While age is just a number for some athletes, the demands of professional football at the highest level are incredibly strenuous. However, Modrić's current form is remarkable. His ability to dictate the tempo of a game, his precision passing, and his unwavering work rate are still amongst the best in the world. His performances for Real Madrid consistently demonstrate his sustained excellence.

Past World Cup Performances

Modrić's World Cup history speaks volumes. He led Croatia to the 2018 World Cup final, a monumental achievement capped off with the Golden Ball award for the tournament's best player. His influence on the Croatian team is undeniable, and his leadership continues to inspire his younger teammates. This legacy alone fuels speculation about a potential 2026 appearance.

Future Plans and International Commitment

While Modrić hasn't explicitly stated his intentions regarding the 2026 World Cup, his statements often hint at his deep love for the game and his country. He has consistently expressed his desire to continue playing at the highest level for as long as his body allows. His commitment to the Croatian national team is unwavering. However, his decisions will likely depend on his physical condition and his continued enjoyment of the game at such a high level.

Factors Influencing His Decision

Several key factors will ultimately determine Modrić's participation:

Physical Fitness: Maintaining peak physical condition at 39 will be crucial. Any significant injuries or decline in fitness could influence his decision.
Performance Level: If his performance starts to dip noticeably, he may choose to prioritize other aspects of his life.
Future Plans: His plans beyond his current contract with Real Madrid will also play a role.
National Team Dynamics: The state of the Croatian national team and the emergence of younger players could also impact his decision.

What the Experts Say

Experts are divided. While some believe Modrić's incredible fitness and dedication may allow him to continue, others point to the physical demands of playing at the highest level at such an age. Ultimately, only time will tell.

Conclusion: A Waiting Game

Whether Luka Modrić will feature in the 2026 World Cup remains uncertain. His age, his current form, and his future plans will all play significant roles. While the odds are stacked against him, given his exceptional talent, unwavering dedication, and proven ability to exceed expectations, the possibility remains very much alive. The football world will undoubtedly be watching closely as the 2026 World Cup draws nearer. Until then, we can only appreciate his continued brilliance on the pitch.

(Internal Link): Check out our article on Modrić's greatest World Cup moments [link to hypothetical article].

(External Link): Learn more about the 2026 World Cup [link to FIFA website].

(Image): Include a high-quality image of Luka Modrić playing in a World Cup match. Remember to compress the image and use descriptive alt text such as "Luka Modrić playing for Croatia in a World Cup match.")