Croatia head coach Zlatko Dalić has expressed strong confidence that captain Luka Modrić will return in time to lead his country at the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026, despite undergoing surgery for a serious facial injury.
Modrić sustained a broken cheekbone following a clash of heads during a tense Serie A encounter between AC Milan and Juventus, which ended in a goalless draw. Subsequent medical examinations confirmed a complex, multi-fragment fracture of the left zygomatic bone.
According to reports, the veteran midfielder has since undergone successful surgery, with AC Milan confirming the procedure was completed without complications. However, the club has yet to provide a definitive timeline for his return. Early indications suggest Modrić could miss the remainder of the Serie A season, dealing a blow to Milan’s push for Champions League qualification.
Despite the setback, Dalić remains optimistic about his captain’s availability for the World Cup, which kicks off on 11 June. Croatia are scheduled to begin their campaign against England on 17 June, making Modrić’s fitness a central concern in their preparations.
Dalić revealed he has already spoken with Modrić, offering his support and expressing confidence in the player’s recovery.
“I am convinced that he will do everything to be ready for the World Cup. We’ll provide full support,” Dalić 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.”
A long-standing leader and one of Croatia’s most influential figures, Modrić is expected to play a pivotal role if he regains full fitness in time for the global tournament.