Luka Modric Injury Update: AC Milan Star to Have Surgery Before World Cup 2026

AC Milan’s Luka Modric, will have cheekbone surgery after injury vs Juventus 

Luka Modric left AC Milan’s 0-0 draw with Juventus after head clash with Locatelli. Scans confirmed fractured cheekbone. Surgery Monday, mask likely for World Cup.

Luka Modric will have surgery on a fractured left cheekbone after head clash with Locatelli...

Croatia midfielder Luka Modric will have surgery on a fractured left cheekbone, his Serie A club AC Milan said Monday, just weeks before the 40-year-old is set to play in his fifth World Cup.

  

Modric was injured in a head clash with Juventus midfielder Manuel Locatelli during Sunday’s 0-0 draw at the San Siro. He exited the match with 10 minutes remaining.

🚨⚠️ Luka Modrić has suffered a double fracture of his cheekbone against Juventus yesterday.

He’s expected to be 100% ready for the World Cup with Croatia. pic.twitter.com/6AV8gj5Jko

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) April 27, 2026

Although visibly in pain, Modric stayed on the bench until the final whistle without medical treatment. After an examination, he will need surgery later Monday.

Milan sit third in the table, 12 points behind leaders Inter Milan with four games left. Modric is doubtful for the rest of their league run-in. He may need a protective mask if he recovers in time for the World Cup.

  

The World Cup, co-hosted by the U.S., Canada and Mexico, begins June 11. Croatia will play England, Ghana and Panama in Group L.