We are not here to participate, to act as an extra. When the group is compact, we can compete with anyone," Modric stated.
The current roster features a blend of veteran presence and new talent as the national team undergoes a significant generational shift.
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"We, more experienced players, must lend a hand to the young people, help them grow and transmit experience, quality, and character to them.
Young people must feel free to show their qualities, and we must support them.
A generational change is underway, but we want to continue winning and doing well as happened in the last two editions of the World Cup," Modric said.
While the team prepares for the pitch, international supporters in Virginia have gathered outside the team's training base to show their dedication to the squad.
"I fell in love with soccer since I was 8. Started playing with my dad, he took me out the field, and then I started loving it.
I love the game," fan Jim Hinojosa told 7News.
Hinojosa brought multiple jerseys to the hotel location in hopes of getting an autograph from the Croatian captain.
"It's a dream. The experience is just once.
We don't know when they're gonna come back," Hinojosa said.
Younger fans also stood behind security barricades in Alexandria holding memorabilia for the players to sign.
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"I have a Luka Modric jersey and a rookie card of him from Croatia, so that's what I would want him to sign," fan Alex Bacak told 7News.
