Luka Modric underwent successful surgery after fracturing his left cheekbone and is expected to be fit for the upcoming FIFA World Cup, the Croatian Football Federation said.
The AC Milan midfielder sustained the injury in a clash of heads with Juventus midfielder Manuel Locatelli during Sunday’s 0-0 Serie A draw at the San Siro. Modric left the field with around 10 minutes remaining and, despite being in pain, stayed on the bench until the final whistle. Subsequent tests identified a fracture to his left zygomatic bone, and he was operated on the following day.
Milan described the damage as a complex, multi-fragment fracture of the left zygomatic bone and said the operation was completely successful. The club did not give a precise timeline for his return; only four Serie A rounds remain. Milan added that it wished Modric a speedy recovery ahead of the World Cup.
Croatia’s medical staff have stayed in contact with the player and the club. Head coach Zlatko Dalic said he had spoken with his captain, wished him a successful operation and expressed confidence that Modric would do everything to be ready for the tournament, adding that the squad will provide full support.
Modric, 40, is in the final months of a one-year deal with Milan after leaving Real Madrid, with an option for a further year. If he recovers in time for the tournament cohosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico, he may wear a protective mask while playing.
The World Cup begins on June 11; Croatia are scheduled to play England on June 17, Ghana on June 23 and Panama on June 27 in Group L. Milan sit third in Serie A, 12 points behind leaders Inter, with four games remaining, leaving Modric’s availability for the club’s season finish uncertain.