Luka Modric Injury Update: AC Milan Star Undergoes Surgery With FIFA World Cup 2026 Hopes Hanging

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AC Milan midfielder Luka Modric underwent successful surgery on Monday, April 27, to repair a fractured left cheekbone. The injury occurred during Sunday’s 0-0 draw against Juventus at the San Siro after a collision with Manuel Locatelli. He left the field with 10 minutes left. Medical assessments confirmed a multi-fragmentary fracture of the zygomatic bone, requiring immediate intervention at the La Madonnina Clinic in Milan.

Although clearly in pain, Modric remained on the bench until the end of the game without receiving medical treatment.

The Croatian federation said national medical staff remained in contact with Modric, who captains the side, as well as his club.

The surgical procedure, led by a specialist maxillofacial team, was completed without complications. Modric has been discharged from the clinic and will begin a period of rest before starting his rehabilitation. AC Milan’s medical staff will monitor his progress daily, but he is expected to miss the remainder of the domestic Serie A season to ensure the bone heals correctly.

💔 Season setback

Luka Modrić out for the rest of the season after facial injury ❌

But expected back for World Cup with a mask 👀🏆#Modric #Croatia #RealMadrid #Football pic.twitter.com/DmSo8JTsap

— Mayowa (@Davmayor08) April 27, 2026

“I’ve been talking to Luka, and wished him a successful surgery and a quality and speedy recovery,” Croatia head coach Zlatko Dalic said in a statement.

“I am convinced that he will do everything to be ready for the World Cup, and we’ll provide full support.

“I am confident that the recovery will go according to plan and that Luka, as team captain, will lead us at another major competition this summer.”

Milan are third in the standings, 12 points behind leaders Inter Milan with four games remaining, and Modric is doubtful to take any part in their season run-in. A protective mask may be needed should he recover in time for the World Cup.

The World Cup, co-hosted by the U.S., Canada and Mexico, starts on June 11, and Croatia will face England, Ghana and Panama in Group L.

(With inputs from Reuters)