Croatian football legend Davor Suker has expressed unwavering confidence in Luka Modric's ability to continue playing at the highest level for his country, potentially extending his international career beyond age 42. The endorsement comes at a pivotal moment for the AC Milan midfielder, who recently turned 41 in early September and demonstrated his continued quality by finding the back of the net during Croatia's Nations League opener against Czechia, a match that ended in a 2-1 victory. The goal marked a significant milestone for Modric, arriving on his 203rd international appearance—a testament to his enduring influence on the Croatian national team.
Rather than committing to any definitive timeline, Modric has chosen to adopt a measured approach toward his future with both club and country, preferring to assess his performance and readiness on a step-by-step basis. Suker's comments arrive ahead of a crucial UEFA Nations League clash against world champions Spain, where Croatia faces one of Europe's elite sides. The legendary former striker emphasized Modric's proven capacity to maintain elite-level performances, noting that the squad possesses exceptional talent throughout its ranks. Suker's confidence extends beyond Modric individually, reflecting broader optimism about Croatia's competitive standing in upcoming competitions.
When discussing the looming showdown with Spain, Suker acknowledged the formidable challenge while refusing to concede psychological ground. He expressed a desire for an entertaining, goal-laden contest rather than a defensive stalemate, while simultaneously praising Spain's accomplished roster and managerial setup. Yet Suker's comments carried a distinct edge of defiance, suggesting that Croatia has historically thrived when underestimated by opponents and has consistently demonstrated the ability to elevate performance during high-stakes encounters.
The trajectory of Modric's international career now hinges on his continued physical condition and performance standards in the months ahead. Whether the veteran playmaker will ultimately feature at UEFA Euro 2028—nearly three years away—remains uncertain, but Suker's unequivocal backing suggests that within Croatia's football circles, there exists genuine belief in Modric's capacity to extend his remarkable longevity at the international level.