Overview
- Luka Modrić, 40, suffered a complex fracture to his left cheekbone after a head clash with Juventus’ Manuel Locatelli during Sunday’s 0-0 draw at San Siro.
- AC Milan said Monday the operation at La Madonnina Clinic, led by Dr. Luca Autelitano with club medics present, was completely successful.
- The club confirmed his season is over with four Serie A games left, a blow as Milan try to lock down a Champions League place.
- Doctors and team staff cite a six-to-eight-week recovery window, which keeps Croatia’s June 17 World Cup opener against England within reach, with a protective face mask expected by several reports.
- Modrić has been a regular starter at 40 and was named player of the match against Juventus, and Croatia coach Zlatko Dalić said he expects his captain to recover in time.