Luka Modric's club season with AC Milan is over after he suffered a broken cheekbone in Sunday's 0-0 Serie A draw against Juventus. The Croatia captain was injured while contesting an aerial challenge with Manuel Locatelli late in the match and was forced off. Medical tests on Monday confirmed a 'complex, multi-fragment fracture of the left zygomatic bone', prompting immediate surgery, which Milan described as 'completely successful'.
Recovery Timeline and World Cup Hope
Although AC Milan did not specify a recovery period, the injury effectively ends Modric’s domestic campaign with just four league rounds remaining. The club issued a statement wishing the 40-year-old a 'speedy recovery ahead of the FIFA World Cup'. Croatia begin their tournament on June 17 against England, followed by group stage matches against Panama and Ghana.
Croatia coach Zlatko Dalić expressed full confidence in Modric’s return, writing on X via the national federation: 'I've been talking to Luka and wished him a successful surgery and a quality and speedy recovery. I am convinced that he will do everything to be ready for the FIFA World Cup, and we'll provide full support.'
Modric's Impact at AC Milan
In his final months with AC Milan, Modric has been a consistent presence, starting 32 of 34 league matches this season. He earned player of the match honours in the Juventus clash despite the injury. The midfielder joined Milan on a one-year deal last summer after 13 trophy-laden years at Real Madrid and has an option to extend his contract for another season.
Pulisic's Goal Drought Continues
Christian Pulisic failed to break his scoring drought in the goalless draw, extending his run to 16 club matches without a goal — matching his career-worst streak. Despite the lack of goals, Pulisic was active throughout the match, contributing to Milan’s attacking play. Analyst Cesar Hernandez highlighted Pulisic’s overall impact, noting his movement and pressing as key elements in Milan’s performance.