Luka Modrić Injury Update: AC Milan Star to Miss Rest of Serie A Season, But Expected for World Cup

By Daniel Richardson, Editor-in-Chief of Archysport

MILAN — Luka Modrić’s legendary career has been defined by resilience, but the 40-year-old Croatian midfielder now faces one of his most challenging timelines yet. After suffering a fractured cheekbone in AC Milan’s 0-0 draw against Juventus on Sunday, Modrić is set to miss the remainder of the Serie A season, according to club officials. Still, the 2018 Ballon d’Or winner is expected to recover in time for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where he aims to lead Croatia in what could be his final international tournament.

What Happened: The Injury and Immediate Fallout

Modrić was forced off the pitch in the 80th minute of Milan’s high-stakes clash against Juventus at the San Siro. The injury occurred after a collision with Juventus midfielder Manuel Locatelli, leaving the Croatian clutching his face in visible pain. AC Milan later confirmed that Modrić had sustained a fracture of the left cheekbone, an injury that typically requires surgical intervention or extended rest.

“It’s a real blow for us,” said Milan manager Stefano Pioli in a post-match press conference. “Luka has been instrumental this season, and his leadership on and off the pitch is irreplaceable. We’ll support him through his recovery and hope to see him back as soon as possible.”

For Milan, the timing couldn’t be worse. The Rossoneri are locked in a tight battle for a top-four finish in Serie A, with just four matches remaining in the regular season. Modrić has been a linchpin in Milan’s midfield, featuring in 33 of the team’s 34 Serie A matches this season. His absence could complicate Milan’s push for a Champions League berth next season, particularly as they prepare for a crucial clash against Atalanta this weekend.

Medical Outlook: Surgery Likely, But World Cup Hopes Alive

Although the severity of Modrić’s injury has raised concerns, multiple reports indicate that he is expected to make a full recovery in time for the World Cup, which kicks off on June 11, 2026. According to a source cited by the Agence France-Presse (AFP), Modrić is likely to undergo surgery but could return to action wearing a protective mask—a common precaution for facial injuries in football.

“He should be operational for the competition,” the source told AFP. “He may need to wear a protective mask, but that won’t hinder his performance.”

Croatian media outlet Sportske Novosti reported that Modrić’s injury is a double fracture of the cheekbone, though it remains unclear whether he will opt for surgery or a conservative treatment plan. Either way, his availability for Milan’s final matches of the season appears unlikely.

What This Means for Croatia’s World Cup Ambitions

For Croatia, Modrić’s health is a non-negotiable priority. The veteran midfielder has been the heartbeat of the national team for over a decade, captaining them to the 2018 World Cup final—where they fell 4-2 to France—and leading them to a third-place finish in the 2022 tournament. At 40, this could very well be his last World Cup, and Croatia will be desperate to send him off in style.

Modrić has been a constant presence in Croatia’s lineup, featuring in every match since Euro 2024. His vision, passing range, and clutch performances in big games make him indispensable, even as younger talents like Mateo Kovačić and Marcelo Brozović step into more prominent roles. If he recovers as expected, he’ll likely play a reduced but still pivotal role in Qatar this summer.

“Luka is more than just a player for us—he’s a symbol of what Croatian football stands for,” said Croatia manager Zlatko Dalić in a recent interview. “We’ll manage his minutes carefully, but his experience and leadership are irreplaceable.”

Milan’s Standings Race: Can They Hold On Without Modrić?

With Modrić sidelined, Milan’s top-four hopes now rest on the shoulders of their remaining squad. The Rossoneri currently sit in fourth place in Serie A, level on points with fifth-placed Atalanta and just two points ahead of sixth-placed Roma. A slip-up in their final four matches could see them miss out on Champions League football for the first time since the 2020-21 season.

Key matches ahead:

• May 4: AC Milan vs. Atalanta (home)
• May 11: AS Roma vs. AC Milan (away)
• May 18: AC Milan vs. Hellas Verona (home)
• May 25: Fiorentina vs. AC Milan (away)

Without Modrić, Pioli may turn to Ismaël Bennacer or Rade Krunić to fill the creative void in midfield. Both players have experience in big games, but neither possesses Modrić’s ability to dictate tempo and unlock defenses with a single pass.

A Legend’s Legacy: Modrić’s Place in Football History

Modrić’s injury serves as a stark reminder of his age, but also of his enduring impact on the game. The 2018 Ballon d’Or winner—who famously ended the decade-long dominance of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo—has defied expectations at every turn. His move to AC Milan in 2024, at the age of 38, was met with skepticism, but he quickly silenced critics by delivering one of the best seasons of his career.

His Ballon d’Or trophy, which he loaned to Milan’s Museo Mondo Milan earlier this year, remains a testament to his legacy. Few players have combined longevity, skill, and leadership as seamlessly as Modrić, and his influence on the modern game is immeasurable.

What’s Next for Modrić?

Modrić’s immediate focus will be on his recovery. If surgery is required, he could be sidelined for 4-6 weeks, which would rule him out of Milan’s final matches but leave him enough time to prepare for the World Cup. Croatian medical staff will work closely with Milan’s team doctors to ensure a smooth rehabilitation process.

For fans, the next official update is expected within the coming days, with Milan likely to provide a clearer timeline after Modrić undergoes further medical evaluations. In the meantime, the football world will be watching closely, hoping to see one of the game’s greatest midfielders make one last stand on the biggest stage.

Key Takeaways

• Luka Modrić suffered a fractured left cheekbone in AC Milan’s 0-0 draw against Juventus and is set to miss the rest of the Serie A season.
• He is expected to recover in time for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, though he may need to wear a protective mask.
• Milan’s top-four hopes are now in jeopardy, with Modrić having played 33 of 34 Serie A matches this season.
• This could be Modrić’s fifth and final World Cup, capping a legendary international career that includes a 2018 final appearance.
• Modrić’s injury comes at a critical time for Milan, who face Atalanta, Roma, Verona, and Fiorentina in their final four matches.

How to Follow Updates

For the latest on Modrić’s recovery and Milan’s push for Champions League football, follow:

• AC Milan’s official website: www.acmilan.com
• Croatian Football Federation: www.hns-cff.hr
• Archysport’s Serie A coverage: www.archysport.com/serie-a

What do you think? Will Modrić’s injury impact Milan’s top-four chances? Can Croatia go deep in the World Cup without their captain at full fitness? Share your thoughts in the comments below.