AC Milan has announced the return of Luka Modrić to the playing field. The captain of the Croatian national team and a key player for the Italian giants has been recovering from a broken cheekbone, sustained in a head collision with Manuel Locatelli in a Derby match against Juventus at the end of April.

Modrić underwent facial surgery due to the injury, but Milan officials have assured that he will be fit for the remainder of the season and that his participation in the upcoming World Cup is not in question. His recovery is on schedule, and the Croatian star has already started training with the rest of the team. Milan shared photos from training on social media, with one image featuring Modrić wearing a black protective mask, which he will use in upcoming matches to protect the injured part of his face and prevent further damage.

Modrić was listed for the last match against Genoa, but was not introduced by coach Massimiliano Allegri. Milan won the match 2-1 as guests, ending a three-game unbeaten streak. This victory further solidified Milan’s position in the fight for a Champions League spot, especially after Juventus’ loss to Fiorentina 2-0.

With only one more round of Serie A left, Milan will play against Cagliari at their stadium on Sunday at 20:45. They are just one step away from securing a Champions League spot, currently in third place with 70 points, the same as fourth place Roma, while Como and Juventus lag behind by two points.

If needed, Modrić could play in the match against Cagliari. Even if he does not appear in the last match of the season, his return is excellent news for the Croatian national team, which will participate in the World Cup this summer, starting against England on June 17.