EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW: Darijo Srna on Croatia at the World Cup, Modric, and 'Sir Zlatko Dalic'

Darijo, after your illustrious playing career for Croatia, which included captaining the side at World Cups, what are your expectations for the national team in 2026?

"The issue is that many people share the same high expectations as Croatian fans. However, you must understand that Croatia is a small nation. We cannot expect to win a medal at every World Cup or European Championship. Even Brazil does not achieve that level of success every 20 years! I place no pressure on our national team. Firstly, I am proud that we qualify. Secondly, I know we will compete against everyone. Any outcome makes me happy and proud."

What are your thoughts on the current Croatian team under Zlatko Dalic?

"This is a very important matter. In Croatia, I sometimes feel that people do not respect Dalic enough. I must defend him; he is the greatest coach in Croatian football history and a true legend. We must respect everything he has achieved. If he were the manager of England, I believe he would already be Sir Zlatko Dalic!

"That is the big difference in mentality between Croatia and England. We are too quick to criticise when things do not go our way, but he has consistently delivered at national and international levels. I am so proud of him and wish to thank him for everything he has done for Croatia."

Is this current squad the best Croatia can send to the World Cup?

"Of course. If things remain as they are, yes. But I do not apply pressure; we should take it step by step. We are a small country, so firstly we should simply be proud of being at the World Cup."

What would constitute success for Croatia at the 2026 World Cup?

"For us, advancing from the group stage is always the first objective. Once we exit the group, we become truly dangerous. History demonstrates that."

Let's discuss Luka Modric. What does he represent to the Croatian people?

"He is a legend. A wonderful person, player, and friend, and an example for everyone. I have known him for many years, and I am proud that Croatia has a player like Luka performing at such a high level."

Do you believe the 2026 World Cup will be Luka Modric's last dance?

"With Luka, you never know. I thought his last World Cup would have been years ago, but he is still here. He knows when the moment is right to retire; he is a clever man and will decide for himself."

Is there sufficient talent in Croatia to thrive once Modric eventually retires?

"Of course, we have incredible talents, but it will be very difficult to find another Luka Modric. That is the reality."

What did captaining Croatia mean to you?

"It was a dream come true. As a child, I dreamed of playing for Hajduk Split. Then I dreamed of representing the national team. Becoming captain was an even bigger dream. I am so happy and honoured to have worn the armband on so many occasions."

Do you recall your first match as Croatia captain?

"Yes. I could not believe it; I thought Slaven Bilic would be the captain. I walked into the dressing room with older players, but I was the one wearing the armband. That began my captaincy. There was a lot of support from everyone; the national team is always like a family, through victories and defeats."

Looking back, what are your primary memories from World Cups such as Germany in 2006 and Brazil in 2014?

"In 2006, I missed a penalty, we lost to Brazil, and I scored a great free-kick against Australia. Good memories overall. In 2014, playing Brazil in the opening match, captaining Croatia, with Jennifer Lopez opening the ceremony! These are memories you cannot ask for more. For the Brazil match, there was a lot of pressure, but I feel that Brazil were not at their best then. Today, with Carlo Ancelotti, they are ready."

Croatia always appears to exceed expectations. How does this happen in such a small country?

"Expectations are always high before a tournament, but for us, the first step is always simply to get through the group. Sometimes we have lacked luck, like at my last European Championship in France, when Portugal, a third-placed team, beat us and then went on to win the whole tournament. Luck plays a part, but one thing is certain: I always feel part of the team, part of the family. That is the Croatian mentality."

Which current Croatia players excite you most as we look ahead to 2026?

"For me, the key player is one of the best defenders in the world. I also like (Petar) Sucic from Inter; he is a rising star. Of course, legends like (Ivan) Perisic and Luka, even at 36 or 37 years of age, are playing brilliantly. To play alongside players like Perisic, Modric, and (Mateo) Kovacic is a privilege; all you need to do is listen, and you learn so much."

Could Croatia be the biggest surprise of the World Cup?

"Why a surprise? Croatia deserves respect. We have been demonstrating our quality for 10 years now. If we advance from the group, anything is possible. We are always more dangerous after that. Croatia could be a very strong and dangerous team at the World Cup."