Luka Modrić will return to the pitch against Cagliari on Sunday, wearing a custom-made carbon mask to protect his injured face. The mask was delivered to Modrić last Saturday and he has already tested it during training sessions in Milanellu. According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Modrić would have preferred to play the previous weekend against Genoa, but coach Allegri decided to give him a few more days to recover and adapt to the carbon protection he will wear until the World Cup.

Custom-Made from Carbon Fibers

The mask was made by technicians from the Orthopedic Center OrthoActivity in Milan in just one day. The same center has previously worked with players like Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and goalkeeper Anthony Lopes. The mask weighs around 150 grams and is handcrafted from carbon fibers, shaped according to a gypsum mold of Modrić’s face taken after the post-operative swelling had subsided. The mask is wider on the left side to cover and protect the injured area, where Modrić suffered multiple fractures of his left fibula, requiring surgery at the end of April. The outer part of the mask is completely black, with no initials, club symbols, or Croatian flag colors.

Perfect Fit with No Adjustments Needed

The inner part of the mask features an anti-slip base to ensure it stays in place during running, with straps also being silicone and anti-slip. Upon completion, Modrić tested the mask in the company's office in the presence of technicians and Milan’s doctor, Stefan Mazzoni. No adjustments were needed, and the first training session in Milanellu confirmed that the protection fits perfectly against his face and does not interfere with his play.

On Sunday, Milan will face Cagliari at San Siro, which is expected to be fully packed with more than 70,000 fans supporting the team in a crucial match to secure a Champions League spot. The match will also be seen as a final 90 minutes of support for Modrić, with fans calling on him to stay for one more season. Modrić, captain of the Croatian national team, has the option to extend his contract for another season.