Croatia national team head coach has announced a strong preliminary squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with a blend of experienced veterans and rising stars named as the country prepares for the tournament in North America.
The squad includes several high-profile names who will once again carry Croatia’s hopes on the global stage, alongside emerging talents who are expected to play important supporting roles.
BIG NAMES HEADLINE THE SQUAD
Among the most notable inclusions is midfield maestro , who continues to feature despite being in the latter stages of his international career. His leadership, vision, and experience remain central to Croatia’s midfield identity.
He is joined by another key midfielder, , whose energy and ball progression provide balance and control in the middle of the park.
In defence, one of Europe’s most highly rated young defenders, , also makes the squad. His inclusion boosts Croatia’s backline with pace, strength, and modern defensive versatility.
ATTACKING OPTIONS WITH EXPERIENCE AND FORM
Croatia’s attacking department is also packed with established names, including veteran winger , who brings big-match experience and direct attacking threat.
Striker is also included, expected to play a key role in goal scoring and attacking transitions.
The squad further features forwards such as Ante Budimir and Petar Musa, highlighting the depth available in attack as Croatia look to compete strongly at the tournament.
BALANCED MIDFIELD AND RISING TALENT
Croatia’s midfield depth is reinforced by players like Mario Pašalić, Nikola Vlašić, Luka Sučić, Martin Baturina, and Kristijan Jakić, offering a combination of creativity, work rate, and tactical flexibility.
The inclusion of younger names such as Luka Vušković in defence also signals Croatia’s gradual transition planning for the future while maintaining competitiveness at the highest level.
DALIĆ’S SELECTION CHALLENGES
Coach Dalić highlighted the intensity of competition for places, especially in defence and attack, where selection decisions were influenced heavily by current club form.
He noted the difficulty of choosing between defensive structures and attacking depth, with several players in strong form across Europe.
WORLD CUP GROUP CHALLENGES AHEAD
Croatia’s group-stage fixtures present a demanding test. They open their campaign against England, followed by Panama, before concluding the group stage against Ghana in a fixture expected to be highly competitive.
With a mix of world-class veterans and emerging talents, Croatia will once again enter the tournament as one of the most tactically disciplined and experienced sides in international football.
FINAL OUTLOOK
This squad reflects Croatia’s continued football philosophy: experience anchored by Modrić, stability provided by Kovacic, defensive power led by Gvardiol, and attacking depth built around proven scorers.
As the 2026 World Cup approaches, Croatia’s blend of continuity and evolution ensures they remain a serious threat on the global stage.
