Luka Modric targets late Milan return before 2026 World Cup, leaving Christian Pulisic’s 


Modric back at Milanello and eyeing May 24 return

Luka Modric has returned to AC Milan’s training ground after undergoing surgery for a facial injury and is reportedly targeting a comeback for Milan’s final Serie A match against Cagliari on May 24. The development, reported by several Italian outlets and relayed via MilanNews.it, Sky Italia and La Gazzetta dello Sport, lifts spirits at Milanello and introduces the possibility that the experienced midfielder could play a late-season role ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

Why this matters for Milan and Christian Pulisic

Modric’s absence has been felt in key moments: Milan’s recent 2-0 loss to Sassuolo exposed a midfield lacking the control and composure the Croatian usually provides. That defeat dented Milan’s hopes of securing a top-four finish and increased pressure during a tense run-in. Reports say Modric has returned to the training environment and could wear a protective mask if he is cleared to play, a scenario that would have immediate tactical and psychological effects for Stefano Pioli’s side and for team-mates such as Christian Pulisic.

Pulisic, who has struggled to fully settle into Milan’s attacking structure in 2026 according to the report, could benefit from Modric’s potential return. The playmaker’s experience in dictating tempo and creating chances would likely change how Milan operate in the final fixtures, easing creative responsibility on the American and potentially restoring balance to the midfield behind the forwards.

Medical caution and selection uncertainty

While the media reports outline an optimistic timetable, Milan staff are said to be monitoring Modric’s recovery closely. Any decision on a comeback will depend on medical clearance and the player’s own confidence; there is no official confirmation from the club in the supplied source material. The potential reappearance remains subject to final fitness assessments ahead of the Cagliari fixture.

Context: what’s at stake for Modric, Milan and the World Cup

Beyond the immediate Serie A implications, the reports frame Modric’s possible return as part of the veteran’s longer-term thinking with the 2026 World Cup approaching. According to the same coverage, a late appearance would be significant for Modric’s fitness narrative and for any decisions he makes about his future with the club. For Milan, finishing in the Champions League places pressure on squad performance and could also influence contract discussions and squad planning.

• Modric underwent surgery for a facial injury and has returned to training at Milanello (reported).
• Italian outlets report Modric is targeting a return for Milan’s last Serie A game against Cagliari on May 24, possibly wearing a protective mask.
• Milan lost 2-0 to Sassuolo recently; the report links Modric’s absence to a lack of midfield control in that game.
• Reports suggest Modric’s potential comeback could ease creative pressure on Christian Pulisic and affect Milan’s Champions League push.
• No official club medical statement or formal confirmation of selection is provided in the supplied source.

What happens next

Milan will continue monitoring Modric’s recovery in the coming days. Any decision on whether he features against Cagliari will rest on medical clearance and the coaching staff’s evaluation. Confirmation from AC Milan or direct comment from Modric would be needed to move this report from "possible" to confirmed.