Modric will 'do everything' to recover for 2026 World Cup, vows Croatia coach Dalic
Synopsis
Modric's race against time begins. At 40, the Croatian captain has just seven weeks to recover from cheekbone surgery before his final World Cup. Coach Dalic's confidence is warranted — Modric has defied age before — but the injury's severity and rehabilitation demands make this his toughest comeback yet. For Croatia, his presence at the tournament is non-negotiable.
Key Takeaways
Luka Modric underwent surgery for a fractured left cheekbone after a collision on 28 April during AC Milan vs Juventus .
Croatia coach Zlatko Dalic expressed confidence the captain will recover in time for the 2026 World Cup .
Croatia face England, Panama, and Ghana in the group stage, starting 17 June 2026 .
This will be Modric's final World Cup at age 40 .
AC Milan are third in Serie A with 67 points , three ahead of Juventus , with four matches remaining.
Croatia head coach Zlatko Dalic has expressed confidence that captain Luka Modric will be fit for the FIFA World Cup 2026 after the 40-year-old midfielder underwent surgery following a serious facial injury sustained during club action. "I've been talking to Luka and wished him a successful surgery and a quick recovery. I am convinced that he will do everything to be ready for the World Cup. We will give him full support, and I believe everything will go according to plan," Dalic told the BBC.
The Injury and Surgery
Modric suffered a fractured left cheekbone after a collision with Manuel Locatelli during an AC Milan vs Juventus clash on Sunday, 28 April, while challenging for an aerial ball at the San Siro. The incident forced the veteran midfielder to leave the pitch with approximately 10 minutes remaining, though he remained near the touchline despite visible discomfort. Medical tests confirmed the fracture required immediate surgery, which proved successful.
Croatia's World Cup Path
Croatia will compete in their fourth consecutive FIFA World Cup, facing England, Panama, and Ghana in the group stage. The 2018 runners-up begin their campaign on 17 June against England. The team has an exceptional tournament record, reaching the semi-finals in half of their World Cup appearances, including a final run in Russia 2018 and a third-place finish at Qatar 2022.
Modric's Final World Cup
This will be Modric's last World Cup appearance as the midfielder has already turned 40. Dalic stated: "As our captain, I am confident he will lead us again at a major tournament this summer." The veteran's recovery timeline will be critical, with approximately seven weeks until Croatia's opening fixture.
Impact on AC Milan's Season
Meanwhile, Modric's absence will impact AC Milan's domestic campaign. The Serie A side are chasing a Champions League spot with only four matches remaining, currently placed third with 67 points, while fourth-placed Juventus trail by three points with 64 points and can overtake them with a single win.
Point of View
Not a certainty. Modric has defied age before, but cheekbone fractures carry unpredictable healing timelines and pain management complexities. Croatia's 2018-2022 semi-final streak was built on his midfield orchestration; without him, their group-stage outlook against England sharpens considerably. The real question isn't whether Modric will try — it's whether his body will cooperate.
NationPress
1 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What injury did Luka Modric suffer?
Modric suffered a fractured left cheekbone after colliding with Manuel Locatelli during an AC Milan vs Juventus match on 28 April 2026. He underwent surgery immediately following the incident, which was successful.
Will Modric play in the 2026 World Cup?
Croatia coach Dalic has expressed confidence that Modric will recover in time for the tournament, which begins on 17 June 2026. However, the 40-year-old has approximately seven weeks to rehabilitate from surgery, making his participation uncertain until he completes recovery protocols.
What is Croatia's World Cup 2026 group?
Croatia face England, Panama, and Ghana in the group stage, starting their campaign on 17 June 2026 against England. This is their fourth consecutive World Cup appearance.
Is this Modric's last World Cup?
Yes, at age 40, the 2026 World Cup will be Modric's final tournament appearance. He has been a cornerstone of Croatia's team for nearly two decades, including their 2018 final run.
How does Modric's injury affect AC Milan?
AC Milan are chasing a Champions League spot in Serie A with four matches remaining. Modric's absence leaves them third with 67 points, only three ahead of fourth-placed Juventus, who can overtake them with a single win.
