Croatia captain Luka Modric underwent surgery after sustaining a broken cheekbone, according to national team officials. The AC Milan midfielder suffered the injury during domestic competition but is expected to recover before the summer tournament begins. Coach Zlatko Dalic expressed confidence in the veteran's availability for the finals, per Reuters reports.
Dalic stated that the medical procedure was successful and the 40-year-old midfielder has already commenced his rehabilitation process. Croatia staff remain in constant contact with the medical department at AC Milan to monitor his progress. Modric has earned 174 caps for his country and remains a central figure in the national squad's tactical plans, according to The Guardian.
The national team begins its final preparations for the World Cup next month. Medical staff suggest the player may wear a protective mask during the initial stages of his return to training. Dalic confirmed that Modric is determined to lead the team in what is likely his final major international tournament.
