Luka Modric will undergo surgery on a fractured left cheekbone following a head-to-head collision with Manuel Locatelli during AC Milan?s 0-0 draw against Juventus at San Siro on Sunday night, reports in Italy confirm. The 40-year-old midfielder was challenged in the air late in the second half and was assisted off the pitch by medical staff, visibly injured, before being consoled by Milan head coach Massimiliano Allegri.
Medical assessment and recovery timeline
Modric underwent medical examinations on Monday, with Sky Sport Italia confirming the fracture. The club has not yet disclosed whether he will be fit to return for Milan?s final four Serie A fixtures. The Rossoneri face Sassuolo away this Sunday, followed by home games against Atalanta on May 10 and Cagliari on May 24, with an away trip to Genoa on May 17 in between.
His availability for the end of the season remains uncertain, casting doubt over his involvement in Milan?s push for Champions League qualification. Despite his age, Modric has been a consistent presence this campaign, named in the matchday squad for all 34 league games, starting 32, and only once left on the bench.
Contract situation looms
Modric joined Milan on a one-year deal ahead of the 2025-26 season, with an option for a 12-month extension. His performances have defied expectations, earning him man of the match honours against Juventus despite the injury. The decision on his future will likely weigh both his recovery and continued on-field impact as Milan assess their squad for next season.
The incident has sparked concern across the football community, with images showing Modric being helped off at the Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on April 26, 2026. No further details have been released regarding the surgical procedure or expected recovery time.