Croatia international Ivo Ilicevic has been dropped from the country's provisional 30-man World Cup squad because of injury, coach Niko Kovac said on Monday.

"I have informed Ilicevic of the decision ... I regret that he will not be with us," Kovac said.

"However, it is important he heals fully and starts next season in top form in order to avoid future injuries."

The 27-year-old midfielder, who plays for Bundesliga side Hamburg, has suffered muscle injuries to both his legs. A calf injury also sidelined Ilicevic from Euro 2012.

Croatia kick off the World Cup tournament on June 12 when they take on hosts Brazil in the opening match.

The squad are due to gather in the capital Zagreb on Wednesday before leaving two days later for preparations in Bad Tazmanndorf, Austria.

However, star midfielder Luka Modric will not be with them as on Saturday his Real Madrid plays the Champions League final against Atletico Madrid.

Croatia's final 23-man list will be announced after a friendly against Mali on May 31.

Kovac's squad were to play their last World Cup warm-up match on June 6, against Australia, in Brazil.

Group A also includes Cameroon and Mexico.

Croatia's best result at a World Cup was third place in 1998, but they failed to qualify for South Africa in 2010.