Modric Eyes World Cup Return After Cheekbone Surgery

When AC Milan's Luka Modric clashed heads with a Juventus player last Sunday, it could have ended his World Cup dreams. Instead, the veteran captain is already planning his comeback.

The 40-year-old Croatian midfielder suffered a complex fracture of his left cheekbone during a scoreless draw. Milan confirmed he underwent completely successful surgery to repair the multi-fragment break.

Croatia coach Zlatko Dalic has no doubts about his captain's return. After speaking with Modric following the surgery, Dalic said he's confident the recovery will go exactly as planned.

"I am convinced that he will do everything to be ready for the World Cup," Dalic said. The coach promised full team support to help their leader make it back in time.

Modric will miss AC Milan's final four Serie A games as they chase a Champions League spot. The team currently sits third with 67 points, just ahead of Juventus and Como in the tight race for European qualification.

Why This Inspires

At 40 years old, most players would be enjoying retirement. Not Modric. This will be his fifth World Cup tournament, a testament to his dedication and longevity at football's highest level.

His determination to recover in time shows the kind of leadership that made him Croatia's captain. The tight timeline between now and Croatia's June 17 opener against England would intimidate most athletes, but Modric is already working toward that goal.

Croatia and their fans are rallying behind their captain as he races against the clock for another chance at World Cup glory.