Captain of the Croatian national team, Luka Modrić, is returning to the pitch earlier than anticipated. Milan coach Massimiliano Allegri confirmed that Modrić trained with the team and is ready to play with a protective mask, providing a significant boost before crucial matches in the fight for a Champions League spot.

Modrić injured himself on April 26 during a match against Juventus, sustaining a double-jointed cartilage tear that required surgery and a lengthy recovery period. However, from the outset, it was clear that he wanted to return to the pitch as soon as possible. After completing his individual rehabilitation and receiving a custom protective mask, his return became a matter of time. He is now fully back in the team's training process and is seriously competing for a place in the final matches of the season.

Allegri Confirms Good News

Two crucial league matches are upcoming, in which Milan is battling for a Champions League spot, and Luka Modrić could be a significant boost, even in tomorrow's double-header against Genoa. "The good news is that Modrić is ready. He tried out the protective mask and trained with the team, but we will see who plays tomorrow," Allegri announced before the match.

This statement clearly indicates that the Croatian captain is back in serious contention for a starting spot, despite a cautious approach. All signs point to Modrić potentially helping Milan in the decisive double-headers.

Uncertain Battle for Champions League

The Rossoneri still have to play against Genoa and Cagliari, and victories are essential. Modrić's return is therefore timely, as Milan is locked in a tight battle for one of the Champions League spots.

Currently, they are fourth with 67 points, the same as fifth-place Roma, with Como two points behind. Third-place Juventus has two points more, while second-place Napoli has three points more than Milan. The fact that Modrić is ready to take the risk and play with a protective mask on his face speaks volumes about his commitment to the team.

His experience and calmness could be invaluable in such matches, and it's not out of the question that he could play tomorrow against Genoa, either from the start or as a crucial substitute.