Modric collided with Manuel Locatelli, forcing him off the field in the 79th minute of AC Milan's 0-0 draw against Juventus in Serie A's 34th round on 26/4.

One day later, Milan announced Modric suffered a complex multi-fragment fracture in his left cheekbone and underwent surgery at the La Madonnina clinic. The operation was performed by Dr. Luca Autelitano's team, with club medical staff Stefano Mazzoni and Andrea Bulgheroni also participating.

This type of injury typically requires 6 to 8 weeks for recovery. Milan confirmed Modric will miss the remainder of the season, wishing him "a swift recovery to prepare for World Cup 2026".

Luka Modric applies ice to his face as he leaves the field during AC Milan's 0-0 draw against Juventus in Serie A's 34th round on 26/4. *Photo: EFE*

According to Croatian media, Modric may have to play with a protective mask if he participates in the World Cup, as his specific recovery timeline remains undetermined.

Croatia national team doctor Tomislav Vlahovic stated they are in regular contact with Milan's medical department to closely monitor Modric's recovery, coordinating with both the club and the player. Based on experience with similar injuries, he believes the 40-year-old midfielder will recover in time for the World Cup.

Coach Zlatko Dalic also spoke with Modric, wishing him a quick recovery. "I believe Luka will do everything to be ready for the World Cup, and we will provide maximum support. We hope his recovery proceeds as planned so Luka can continue to lead the national team in another major tournament this summer," he said.

World Cup 2026 will take place from 11/6 to 19/7. Croatia is in Group L with England, Panama, and Ghana.

Luka Modric won the Golden Ball for the best player at World Cup 2018. *Photo: HNS*

In summer 2025, Modric left Real Madrid to join Milan on a one-year contract with a 12-month extension option. At age 40, the Croatian midfielder maintains impressive form and is a key player for Milan this season. He was named in the squad for all 34 Serie A matches, starting 32, scoring two goals, and providing three assists.

Modric debuted for the Croatia national team against Argentina in March 2006 and scored his first international goal in a friendly against Italy. He has participated in every major tournament the national team has qualified for, from the Euro 2008 to 2024 championships to the World Cups from 2006 to 2022.

Modric was selected for the Euro 2008 Team of the Tournament, led Croatia to the final, and won the Golden Ball for the best player at World Cup 2018. At World Cup 2022, Modric again led the national team to a third-place finish and received the Bronze Ball.

In total, Modric has 28 goals in 196 international appearances, holding the record for 14 Croatia Player of the Year awards between 2007 and 2025, and was named the best Balkan athlete in 2018.

By Hong Duy