Full Breakdown
Luka Modric Faces Season-Ending Injury but Eyes World Cup Return
4/28/2026, 10:49:42 PM
Modric’s Cheekbone Fracture in Milan-Juventus Draw
On 26 April 2026, AC Milan captain Luka Modric collided heads with Juventus midfielder Manuel Locatelli during a 0-0 Serie A match at the San Siro. Medical examinations identified a “complex, multi-fragment fracture of the left zygomatic bone.” He was substituted in the 81st minute and underwent surgery the following day. Milan described the operation as “completely successful,” but confirmed he will miss the remaining four league fixtures.
Background and Contractual Context
The 40-year-old Croatian midfielder signed a one-year contract with AC Milan in the summer of 2025, after 13 trophy-laden seasons at Real Madrid, with an option to extend for another year. He started 32 of Milan’s 34 league matches this season, was named player of the match against Juventus, and contributed 53 passes, three recoveries and won four of six duels. Modric also captains Croatia, leading them into their fifth World Cup.
Timeline of Key Dates
- 26 April 2026 – Injury occurs in Milan-Juventus draw.
- 27 April 2026 – Surgery performed; Milan issues statement.
- Late May 2026 – Some sources project possible return.
- 11 June 2026 – FIFA World Cup opens (co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico).
- 17 June 2026 – Croatia’s opening group match versus England.
Data and Statistics
- Milan’s standing: 67 points, third place, three points ahead of Juventus, six points ahead of fifth-placed Como.
- Champions League qualification: Top four Serie A teams secure spots.
- Modric’s season: 32 starts, 1 bench appearance, player-of-the-match award, 53 passes vs. Juventus.
- Recovery estimates: 6–8 weeks (source 6) or “until late May” (source 3).
Official Statements and Responses
AC Milan announced the injury, confirmed the successful surgery, and expressed wishes for a “speedy recovery ahead of the FIFA World Cup.” The Croatian Football Federation reported ongoing medical monitoring and emphasized the national team’s support. Croatia head coach Zlatko Dalic reiterated confidence that Modric will be ready for the tournament and pledged full backing from the federation.
Verbatim Quotes
- “The club wishes Luka a speedy recovery ahead of the FIFA World Cup!” — AC Milan (official statement)
- “I've been talking to Luka, and wished him a successful surgery and a quality and speedy recovery.” — Zlatko Dalic, Croatia head coach
- “I am convinced that he will do everything to be ready for the FIFA World Cup, and we'll provide full support.” — Zlatko Dalic
- “Thankfully, it appears Modric's recovery from the cheekbone fracture will not keep him out of this summer's tournament, as Fabrizio Romano claims the veteran is 'expected to be 100 per cent' for the World Cup.” — Fabrizio Romano (football journalist)
Conflicting Reports and Gaps
Sources differ on the projected timeline: one cites a 6-8-week recovery window, another expects a return by late May, while Milan’s statement offers no specific duration. It also remains unclear whether Modric will need a protective face mask for the World Cup or if he will feature in Croatia’s pre-tournament friendlies against Belgium and Slovenia.
What’s Next
If his rehabilitation proceeds as hoped, Modric could join Croatia’s squad for the June 17 opener against England and subsequent Group L matches versus Panama and Ghana. Milan will conclude the Serie A season without him, aiming to secure a Champions League berth. The player’s potential return will be closely monitored by both club and national-team medical staff.
