The captain of the Croatian national football team, Luka Modrić, underwent an operation on his left cheekbone, which was damaged in an aerial duel with the player of Juventus, Manuel Locatelli, during the championship match of the 34th round of Serie A in Milan.
The medical service of the Croatian national team has been in constant contact with the doctors of Milan and the captain of Vatreni since the first moment, as well as the expert staff led by coach Zlatko Dalić, announced the Croatian Football Association.
We are in constant contact with the medical service of Milan, and in coordination with them and in agreement with Luka, we will closely monitor the course of his recovery, and based on our past experiences with such injuries, we believe that he will captain to be ready to perform at the upcoming World Cupsaid the doctor of the national team, dr. Tomislav Vlahovic.
Modrić died in the 75th minute of the derby after butting heads with Manuel Locatelli. Both of them tried to reach one ball, but they collided with their heads. The interruption lasted several minutes while they were being helped. Unfortunately, the “Fire” captain had to leave the field holding his head in a daze, while the Juventus midfielder remained in the game.
At first, nothing seemed too serious. Italian media reports that Milan’s medical service did not immediately take Modrić to the hospital. However, the injury turned out to be far more serious. Tests carried out the day after the goalless derby revealed a fractured cheekbone and Modric needed surgery, meaning his Milan season was over.
It is still too early for any forecasts, but most certainly coach Zlatko Dalić is following the whole situation with great concern. Given the nature of the injury, it is to be expected that he will Luka will play with a protective mask at the World Cup.
I spoke to Luke, wished him a successful operation and, of course, a high-quality and speedy recovery. I am sure that Luka will do everything to be ready for the World Cup, and we will give him maximum support in that. I am sure that the recovery will go according to plan and that Luka as captain will lead us to another big competition this summer, said Dalić.
Let us remind you that the “Vatreni” open the World Cup with a match against England in Dallas on June 17, followed by a test against Panama in Toronto on June 23, and the last test in the group against Ghana in Philadelphia on June 27.
Modrić left the field due to injury in the draw between Milan and Juventus
(www.jabuka.tv)
