Head coach of the Croatia national team, Zlatko Dalić, has expressed strong confidence that captain Luka Modrić will recover in time to feature at the upcoming FIFA World Cup, despite undergoing surgery for a serious facial injury.
Modrić sustained the injury, a broken cheekbone after a clash of heads during a match between AC Milan and Juventus, which ended in a goalless draw. Medical examinations later revealed a complex, multi-fragment fracture of the left zygomatic bone.
According to reports, the veteran midfielder has since undergone a successful surgical procedure, with AC Milan confirming that the operation was completed without complications.
However, the club has not given a clear timeline for his return, and he is expected to miss the remainder of the Serie A season as Milan continue their pursuit of Champions League qualification.
Despite the setback, Dalić remains hopeful about Modrić’s recovery ahead of the World Cup, which kicks off on June 11. Croatia are scheduled to begin their campaign against England national team on June 17, making the captain’s fitness a key focus in their preparations.
Dalić revealed that he has already been in contact with Modrić and reassured him of the team’s full support during his recovery.
“I am convinced that he will do everything to be ready for the World Cup. We’ll provide full support,” Dalic said
“I am confident that the recovery will go according to plan and that Luka, as team captain, will lead us at another major competition this summer.”
Modrić remains one of Croatia’s most influential players and a central figure in the squad. His availability will be crucial as the team looks to make a strong impact at the tournament.
