Luka Modric, the living legend of Croatian football now playing for AC Milan, is preparing to compete in the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North and Central America while wearing a protective face mask.
According to Wien Sports, the veteran midfielder will take the field with facial protection after suffering a fractured cheekbone. The injury occurred during a Serie A match against Juventus when Modric collided with opposing midfielder Manuel Locatelli while competing for an aerial ball, resulting in a severe impact to his left cheekbone area.
Following the incident, Modric was substituted and underwent detailed medical examination, which confirmed the cheekbone fracture. The club released a statement saying, “He sustained multiple complex fractures to the left cheekbone, and the surgery was completed successfully. We wish Modric a speedy recovery ahead of the World Cup.”
Though no official timeline for his return was announced, with only four league matches remaining in the season, it appears highly likely that Modric’s club campaign has ended early. However, ESPN reported that “while Modric cannot participate in the remaining league fixtures, he is expected to recover in time to lead Croatia as captain at the World Cup.”
A Familiar Story for Football Fans
The sight of a player wearing a protective mask at the World Cup resonates particularly with fans who remember a similar situation. The South Korean captain faced the same challenge during the Qatar tournament after undergoing surgery for an orbital fracture sustained while playing for Tottenham Hotspur, just one month before the competition began.
Despite incomplete recovery, the Korean forward wore facial protection throughout the tournament to help his nation achieve a Round of 16 appearance for the first time in 12 years.
The Croatian Icon’s Legacy
Born in 1985, Modric represents the heart and soul of Croatian football. He has served his national team for nearly two decades since his debut, accumulating 196 international appearances with 28 goals.
As captain, he led Croatia to a stunning runner-up finish at the 2018 Russia World Cup and guided them to third place in Qatar 2022. His leadership and skill have been instrumental in establishing Croatia as a consistent force in international football.
National team manager Zlatko Dalic expressed confidence through social media: “I am certain Modric will dedicate every effort toward recovering for the World Cup, and we will provide full support. I have complete faith that his recovery will proceed as planned, and he will wear the captain’s armband to lead our team at the tournament.”