Modrić expected to recover in time for World Cup – Croatia coach

Croatia head coach Zlatko Dalić has expressed confidence that captain Luka Modrić will recover in time to lead his country at the upcoming FIFA World Cup, despite undergoing surgery on a serious facial injury.

Modrić suffered a broken cheekbone after a clash of heads during a match between AC Milan and Juventus, which ended in a goalless draw.

Medical scans later confirmed a complex, multi-fragment fracture of the left zygomatic bone.

According to BBC Sport on Tuesday, the veteran midfielder has since undergone successful surgery, with AC Milan confirming the procedure went well.

However, the club has not provided a specific timeline for his return, though he is expected to miss the remainder of the Serie A season as Milan continue their push for Champions League qualification.

Despite the setback, Dalić remains optimistic about Modrić’s availability for the World Cup, which begins on 11 June. Croatia will open their campaign against England on 17 June, with the captain’s fitness now a key concern in their preparations.

Dalić said he has already spoken with Modrić and offered his support, expressing belief that the recovery process will go as planned.

“I am convinced that he will do everything to be ready for the World Cup. We’ll provide full support,” Dalic said

“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.”

Modrić, a long-standing leader for Croatia and one of their most influential players, is expected to be central to their plans if he recovers in time.