Croatia starts road to 2026 World Cup: Kovačić out, Modrić still hungry
- by croatiaweek
- in Sport
Zlatko Dalić and Luka Modrić
Croatia’s national football team has officially gathered in preparation for their upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying matches against Gibraltar on 6 June in Faro and Czech Republic on 9 June in Osijek.
Head coach Zlatko Dalić addressed the media before the team’s first training session.
“Croatia now begins its journey towards the 2026 World Cup. From the initial squad, Mateo Kovačić has dropped out due to injury. Other players are here, except for Livaković, Marco Pašalić—who still have club commitments—and Budimir, who will join later,” said Dalić.
“It’s a difficult period; the club season has just ended, and we need to take this seriously. Only the group winners go through.”
Kovačić to Miss Qualifiers After Surgery
Kovačić will be sidelined for around three months following a long-standing heel tendon injury, which also kept him out of the FA Cup final with Manchester City.
The decision for surgery was made in agreement with Chelsea’s medical staff, HNS writes.
Dalić: “No Room for Excuses”
June fixtures have traditionally been tricky for Croatia, and Dalić acknowledged the timing is not ideal. Still, he stressed the importance of qualifying and said excuses are not acceptable.
“The team knows how important these qualifiers are. The timing isn’t ideal, but our goal is to qualify, and that’s what we’ll focus on.”
Modrić’s Farewell at Real Madrid and National Team Commitment
Speaking about Luka Modrić, who recently received a heartfelt tribute from Real Madrid, Dalić praised his enduring hunger and dedication.
“It was a privilege to be in Madrid. Seeing all his trophies displayed was incredible, but what impresses me even more is his passion for the game. Playing at the World Cup is now his biggest goal. He joined us on day one despite having the option to arrive later – that says everything.”
As for Modrić’s future club plans, Dalić added, “There will be offers. Luka has options, and knowing him, he’ll make the right decision together with his family.”
Fruk Earns His Chance, Dalić Hints at Squad Rotation
Martin Fruk, fresh off helping Rijeka to a double-winning season, is expected to see playing time in the absence of Kovačić.
“We’ll try to rotate, especially against Gibraltar. Fruk deserves his call-up and I hope many players will get their chance.”
Several Rijeka players are under consideration, but Dalić noted the fierce competition within the national team.
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— HNS (@HNS_CFF) May 30, 2025
Reflections on the HNL Season and Croatian Football
Dalić shared his thoughts on the recently concluded SuperSport HNL season.
“The league was competitive and interesting, but the real measure is Europe. Borac and Bačka Topola are playing in Europe—where are we? Rijeka and Varaždin deserve the most praise. Varaždin sold players but still qualified for Europe.”
He also commented on the ongoing exodus of players from the domestic league.
“Already today it’s reported that 80 players are leaving the HNL. Clubs have to sell to survive. We’ll bring in foreigners that no one knows. What have we achieved? Nothing.”
Assessments of Young Talent and Strikers in Form
Dalić commented on several rising stars, including Dinamo’s Martin Baturina and Petar Sučić.
“Sučić has improved since returning from injury. Baturina needs more consistency—he’s a top talent and plays well for the national team, but I expect more from him.”
On striker Ante Budimir, Dalić was full of praise.
“To be among the top scorers with names like Mbappé and Lewandowski is no small feat. Budimir has earned his return to the team. He’s in great form, as are all our strikers.”
Vušković Called Up for Experience
Promising young defender Luka Vušković has also been included in the squad to gain valuable experience.
“He’s a big talent and has a long career ahead of him. Now is the right time to begin integrating him into the national setup.”
