The decision to retire from football

Luka Modrić is reportedly considering retirement from top-level football, with the 2026 World Cup emerging as a possible farewell stage.

According to AS, the 40-year-old had hoped to continue at Milan and return to the Champions League, but the club’s failure to qualify has altered his plans. His contract is due to expire in the coming days, and no extension or next move has been announced.

Modrić has received several offers in recent weeks, but he is said to have little interest at present in carrying on at the highest level of club football. His main focus now appears to be one last international campaign with Croatia.

Croatia have played 30 matches at World Cups, with 13 wins, eight draws and nine defeats. If Modrić takes part in 2026, it would be his fifth World Cup and his 19th appearance at the tournament. He has already played 18 World Cup matches, forming a central part of Croatia’s rise on the global stage.