Luka Modrić’s Injury
The Croatian national team captain and AC Milan midfielder, Luka Modrić, has undergone surgery after fracturing his cheekbone. The injury occurred during a Serie A match between Milan and Juventus, which ended in a 0–0 draw. Modrić suffered a complex fracture of his left cheekbone following a head collision with Juventus player Manuel Locatelli.
This season has been quite productive for Modrić at Milan, where he has played 35 matches, scored 2 goals, and provided 3 assists. However, due to the injury, he will be unable to help the team in the remaining games of the Italian championship, where Milan currently sits in third place with 67 points. Only four matchdays remain before the season concludes.
Modrić’s Prospects for the 2026 World Cup
Despite the injury, Modrić still has a chance to play at the 2026 World Cup, which could be the fifth of his career. The Croatian national team has been placed in Group L, where they will face:
- England
- Ghana
- Panama
The first group-stage match against England is scheduled for June 17, while the tournament itself kicks off on June 11. Modrić is expected to need about six weeks to recover.
It’s worth noting that FIFA plans to change the yellow card suspension rules for the 2026 World Cup. Under the new rules, all yellow cards will be wiped clean after the group stage and again after the quarterfinals. This marks a significant shift, as in previous World Cups, yellow cards were only cleared after the quarterfinal round.
Modrić’s injury is a serious blow for Milan, as he is a key player for the team. The time lost to recovery could affect his participation in important matches on the international stage, particularly the World Cup. FIFA’s rule changes may also impact team strategies during the tournament, especially regarding yellow card management. This underscores the importance of both physical and tactical preparation for all tournament participants.
As Modrić navigates his recovery, the Croatian star continues to make headlines, recently being honored for his achievements in football. For a closer look at his latest accolades and how they intertwine with the upcoming Champions League semifinal draw, check out the details in our article on Modrić's recent honors.