The histories of the Croatian and Colombian national teams share some similarities. Both squads found a “golden generation” in the World Cup qualifiers heading towards Brazil 2014.
After 12 years, some players who were part of those groups have stepped aside. However, figures such as Luka Modric for Croatia and James Rodríguez for Colombia continue to take a leadership role.
Croatia’s Veteran Leadership
Luka Modric seeks to repeat the feat of the 2018 World Cup, when Croatia reached the final against France, eventually losing 4-2. At 40, Modric remains a key figure in the Croatian midfield. He is undoubtedly the star of the team managed by Zlatko Dalić.
Alongside Modric, there are other players over 30 who have been involved with the Croatian national team in previous competitions and remain at a high level. These include Iván Perišić (PSV Eindhoven), Mario Pasalic (Atalanta), Ante Budimir (Osasuna), Andrej Kramaric (Hoffenheim) and goalkeeper Dominik Livakovic (Dinamo Zagreb). They bring experience and leadership to a squad undergoing renewal.
New Wave of Croatian Talent
With the departure of legends such as Iván Rakitic, Marcelo Brozovic, Domagoj Vida, Dejan Lovren, and Mario Mandzukic, Croatia lost a significant part of the foundation that restored competitiveness to the team. The veterans mentioned are now tasked with leading the generational change.
There is also a notable group of players under 30 with experience in the national team and major European leagues. These players compete in top leagues, including Josip Sutalo (Ajax), Marin Pongracic (Fiorentina), Duje Caleta Car (Real Sociedad), Josip Stanisic (Bayern Munich), Nikola Moro (Bologna), Petar Susic (Inter), Luka Susic (Real Sociedad), Martin Baturina (Como), Nikola Vlásic (Torino), Lovro Majer (Wolfsburg) and Petar Musa (Dallas FC). They are expected to maintain the team’s competitiveness in the coming years.
The Rising Star: Luka Vuskovic
A standout talent in Croatian football is 19-year-old centre-back Luka Vuskovic. Vuskovic plays for Hamburg in Germany, where he established himself as a breakthrough player in the first part of the 2025/26 season. His performances have attracted interest from clubs like Barcelona and Bayern Munich.