Luka Modrić
CRO
Set for key playmaking role
Modric will be the primary playmaker and set-piece taker for Croatia in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Analysis: Modric remains relevant despite his age, as the star midfielder started in 32 of his 34 Serie A appearances with AC Milan while tallying two goals, three assists and 51 chances created. Modric should be the engine that will keep the Croatian team running, though he'll have decent support in the playmaking department from players such as Mateo Kovacic and Mario Pasalic. This is expected to be Modric's final World Cup in what has been a decorated international career. Modric should have fantasy value as a set-piece taker and creative presence in midfield for Croatia.
Spared in Genoa fixture
Modric (face) wasn't utilized in Sunday's 2-1 win over Genoa.
Analysis: Modric was available and was spotted warming up, but he wasn't ultimately deployed, as Milan were managing a lead for most of the contest. He might be fielded only if necessary also in the season finale against Cagliari on Sunday to avoid risky blows to the face. Ardon Jashari and Samuele Ricci split duties at the position again in relief.
Bench option against Genoa
Modric (face) will begin as a sub for Sunday's contest versus Genoa.
Analysis: Modric will soldier through a cheekbone fracture but won't start in this one due to a lack of practice in recent days. Ardon Jashari is replacing him in the XI. Modric has created three chances and logged 10 crosses (one accurate) and six corners in his last four outings.
Available for Genoa game
Modric (face) "was able to go through practice Saturday and will be with us against Genoa," coach Massimiliano Allegri announced.
Analysis: Modric will play with a special protection after missing two fixtures because of a cheekbone fracture. He might be eased into action since he hasn't trained a lot lately, but one of his potential replacements, Samuele Ricci, is iffy due to an ankle problem. Modric has recorded three chances created, 11 crosses (one accurate) and nine corners in his last five appearances (all starts).
Trying to come back
Modric (face) has been spotted at the training center eight days after surgery, even though he's been prescribed to rest for a couple of weeks, and will try to recover from one of the last two games, La Gazzetta dello Sport informed.
Analysis: Modric hasn't been cleared at this stage, but he could make some bench appearances to support his teammates. His availability down the stretch might hinge on whether Milan still have something to play for or if they clinch a top-four finish early.
Set for surgery due to fracture
Modric has been diagnosed with a left cheekbone surgery that will require surgery, Milan announced.
Analysis: Modric will miss the final four matches of the season and return in the World Cup, wearing a mask, as he'll need five to six weeks to make a full recovery. La Gazzetta dello Sport relayed. Ardon Jashari and Samuele Ricci will fill in for him in the midfield down the stretch. He closes a solid campaign with two goals, three assists, 50 chances created and 111 crosses (29 accurate) in 33 appearances.
Forced off late in Juventus tilt
Modric registered one shot (zero on goal) and one interception in 80 minutes in Sunday's 0-0 draw versus Juventus before leaving after a blow to the head, Gianluca Di Marzio reported.
Analysis: Modric had a pedestrian performance and left the pitch sporting a visible black eye after colliding with Manuel Locatelli in the air. He stayed on the bench and didn't leave immediately for tests, as usually happens when a head injury is suspected. He'll be evaluated in the next few days to determine his status for Sunday's away game versus Sassuolo. Ardon Jashari and Samuele Ricci would be options to replace him if he couldn't go.
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