“We had phenomenal preparations in every aspect, both in Rijeka and in the United States. I’m satisfied with how we prepared, and I believe we’ll show that tomorrow. There are still a few of us from the old guard, and some young players have arrived who always give us extra energy. We have a very good team, and throughout the tournament we’ll see what we are capable of. We’ll give our maximum, as we always have. We know expectations are high because of our last two results, but we have to take it one game at a time and see what we can achieve.”

On the importance of the first match...

“It doesn’t necessarily have to determine anything. Every match is important — the first, the second, and the third. Tomorrow’s result doesn’t have to mean everything. We’ve had different experiences before; it doesn’t have to decide our fate, but it is important for confidence going into the next matches. It’s not decisive.”

On ending his career successfully...

“Every match for the national team is special and important, especially at major tournaments. We all want to finish our careers in the best possible way. I can only promise that we will give everything we have to achieve the best possible result and represent Croatia in the best light. Football owes nobody anything. We all have wishes and dreams; we would all like to become world champions. Some succeed, some don’t. The most important thing is to enjoy it and give your maximum. I know I’m nearing the end of my career, so I have to enjoy every match and every training session. We have many young players, and being around them makes me feel young as well.”

On England...

“A difficult match awaits us against an excellent opponent, but we have faith in ourselves and we’ve worked well. I believe we’ll show that on the pitch.”

On his fifth World Cup...

“I couldn’t even dream that I would play in five World Cups. I was a boy with big dreams. The dream was to play for Croatia just once, and now I’m close to 200 appearances — it’s incredible. I can’t believe I’ve reached these numbers. Every tournament has made me a better player and a better person. I’m grateful to everyone who has been and still is part of my journey with the national team. I’m proud of everything I’ve achieved with Croatia.”

On the possibility of another medal...

“We’ve played countless big matches and beaten great opponents, including Brazil. We’re not thinking about who we might face in the later stages of the tournament. Right now, we’re focused only on England and getting through the group stage. God willing, then we can be dangerous against anyone. We’ll take it step by step and see what we’re capable of.”

On Martin Baturina, Luka Sučić, and Petar Sučić...

“They are talented young players with a great future ahead of them. I hope they bring Croatia a lot of success and joy. They are important for us now, and with experience they will become even better and continue what we have built. I help them in every way I can — whether it’s behavior, training, advice, or anything else. As captain, I’m always there for them. I’m happy to see them progressing, and there is no fear for Croatia’s future.”

On England’s squad without Phil Foden and Cole Palmer...

“I won’t interfere in coach Tuchel’s decisions. England has so many quality players that whoever you choose, you can’t really go wrong. Bellingham? We played together for two years, so I know what kind of player and person he is. He represents a major threat to us.”

On playing at an advanced age...

“First and foremost, it comes down to hard work, sacrifice, and love for football. I can only speak for myself, but careers have become longer. In the past, players would retire at 32 or 33, whereas now careers often continue much longer. There are tools that help with recovery, but above all, it’s the passion for football.”

On Jordan Henderson’s compliments...

“It’s nice to hear such praise from a top-class player. We faced each other many times and played against one another often. He’s a great fighter and a true leader. My time in England helped me enormously in my career. I had four fantastic years at Tottenham. During that period, just like today, the Premier League was one of the strongest leagues in the world, and that style of football helped me tremendously.”

On Petar Musa...

“Petar has had an excellent season and has brought a lot to our national team. He knows how to hold up the ball and score goals. Now he’s playing in his hometown, and I believe he’ll get the opportunity to show what he can do and how much he is capable of.”