Modric: A ‘tragedy’ for Italy to miss third World Cup in a row | OneFootball

Luka Modric is ‘waiting’ for Italy at the 2026 World Cup as missing out on qualification for the third time in a row ‘would be a tragedy.’

Italy will have to go through the playoffs to qualify for the 2026 World Cup.

The Azzurri will meet Northern Ireland in the semifinal and the winner between Wales and Bosnia Herzegovina if they progress to the final.

MILAN, ITALY – NOVEMBER 16: Players of Italy pose for a team photograph prior to the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Italy and Norway at San Siro Stadium on November 16, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

“It would be a tragedy for you to miss a third World Cup in a row,” Modric told Gazzetta.

“I hope Italy qualify because all the best teams will be at the next World Cup and Italy are one of the best, so they have to be there.

“The playoffs are always difficult, but I wish Italy the best of luck in qualifying. I’ll be waiting for you.”

MILAN, ITALY – NOVEMBER 16: Sander Berge of Norway battles for possession with Mateo Retegui of Italy during the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Italy and Norway at San Siro Stadium on November 16, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

Modric’s Croatia will be in Group L with England, Ghana and Panama, while, if Italy qualify, they’ll meet Canada, Switzerland and Qatar in Group B.

“England are one of the strongest national teams around, but we don’t underestimate anyone. We’re in a difficult group, and we have to prepare well,” said Modric.

“The World Cup is still a long way off, and right now we need to think about the present and about Milan because we want to keep going down this path.”