Luka Modric earned a place in Croatia’s 26‑man World Cup squad on Monday, confirming his comeback after a cheekbone fracture that curtailed his AC Milan campaign in April. The 40‑year‑old midfielder is headed for his fifth World Cup as Croatia opens Group L versus England on June 17, with Panama and Ghana following later this summer. Ballon d'Or 2018 winner will lead the side.

Zlatko Dalic retained a core of seasoned players – goalkeeper Dominik Livakovic, defender Josko Gvardiol and midfield pair Mateo Kovacic with Mario Pasalic. Veteran forward Ivan Perisic, who has netted in three straight World Cups, also makes the list. Progressing past the group could see Modric notch the 200‑cap milestone, up from 196 international appearances later year.

Croatia’s recent pedigree features a 2018 final defeat to France and a third‑place finish in 2022 after a semifinal loss to Argentina. Dalic’s roster blends veteran campaigners with promising stand‑bys such as Lovro Majer and Franjo Ivanovic. Modric’s leadership will be pivotal as the team seeks to improve on past performances in the tournament.

Alongside the 26 selected players, Dalic named seven stand‑by athletes, providing depth in case of injuries. Goalkeeper Dominik Kotarski, defender Duje Caleta‑Car and forward Ante Budimir are among those awaiting a call‑up. With Modric fit and experienced teammates ready, Croatia enters the competition with a balanced blend of skill and resilience for the upcoming World Cup.