Croatia captain Luka Modric undergoes cheekbone surgery before World Cup
AC Milan and Croatia midfielder Luka Modric has undergone successful surgery on a fractured left cheekbone just weeks before the World Cup.
The 40-year-old sustained the facial injury during a collision with Juventus counterpart Manuel Locatelli in Sunday’s goalless Serie A draw at the San Siro.
He was substituted with 10 minutes remaining but remained on the bench until the final whistle despite being in clear pain.
Race against time for summer tournament
The Croatian Football Federation confirmed their national medical staff are in close dialogue with both the player and his Italian club.
This upcoming global showpiece, which begins on 11 June, marks the fifth time the midfield maestro is scheduled to participate at the tournament.
“I’ve been talking to Luka, and wished him a successful surgery and a quality and speedy recovery,” said Croatia head coach Zlatko Dalic.
“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.”
Domestic campaign likely concluded
The veteran playmaker is now highly doubtful to feature in the remainder of the Serie A season run-in.
His club currently sit third in the Italian top flight, trailing league leaders Inter Milan by 12 points with just four matches remaining.
Should he recover sufficiently to lead his country, the national side captain will likely be forced to wear a protective medical mask.
Croatia have been drawn into Group L for the tournament and will face opening stage fixtures against England, Ghana and Panama.
