SOCCER: Croatia's Luka Modric aiming to be fit by World Cup

Luka Modric's season for AC Milan is over after he suffered a facial fracture against Juventus on Sunday, but the Croatian midfielder is aiming to be fit in time to play in the World Cup.

Modric collided with Juventus' Manuel Locatelli while both were contesting a header in the 80th minute of what ended as a 0-0 draw. Modric was hit in the left side of the face and forced to leave the pitch.

Tests revealed a "complex, multi-fragment fracture of the left zygomatic bone," according to a statement, with the club adding that Modric had already undergone "completely successful" surgery.

Modric, 40, will miss the final four games of AC Milan's season as he is expected to be sidelined until late May. It is a setback for the club, with Milan third in the Serie A standings with 67 points, only three ahead of Juventus. Seven points over the final four games would ensure Milan's spot in the Champions League.

Croatia's opening World Cup match is against England on June 17, with their other Group L games against Panama and Ghana. However, it is uncertain whether Modric will be fit in time for friendlies against Belgium on June 2 and Slovenia five days later.

"I've been talking to Luka, and wished him a successful surgery and a quality and speedy recovery. I am convinced that he will do everything to be ready for the @FIFAWorldCup, and we'll provide full support," coach Zlatko Dalic said in a post by the Croatian federation on X. "I am confident that the recovery will go according to plan and that Luka, as team captain, will lead us at another major competition this summer."

-Field Level Media/Reuters