Luka Modric embodies the essence of a consummate playmaker, a player whose extraordinary vision and creativity consistently alter the course of matches. His deft touches, incisive passes, and audacious long-range efforts epitomize footballing elegance. Modric's ambipedal brilliance, paired with his acute sense of positioning off the ball, makes him a perpetual threat in any offensive scenario. His ability to deliver pin-point passes—whether short, long or with the audacious outside of his boot—redefines the art of distribution, earning him a reputation for a passing range verging on perfection.
The Croatian maestro’s technical prowess is a symphony of control and finesse. From his sublime first touches to his uncanny ability to dictate the tempo of a game, Modric is a player who transcends mere utility to offer an almost poetic presence on the pitch. A former attacking midfielder, his dribbling, mastery of set pieces, and knack for delivering pre-assists exemplify a multidimensional skill set. These attributes, combined with his tactical acumen, have earned him the moniker “Midfield Maestro,” a player often likened to an orchestra conductor, orchestrating the rhythm and flow with precision and poise.
Once the heartbeat of Real Madrid’s midfield alongside Toni Kroos, Modric stood as a pillar of stability during the transitional phase following Cristiano Ronaldo's departure for Juventus. Yet, the 2018–19 season tested the mettle of the Los Blancos. The team faltered, casting a long shadow on its storied past, and experienced players like Modric found themselves under scrutiny. Whispers of an impending departure to Italy grew louder as his form appeared inconsistent in 2019–20. However, Modric, unyielding in his belief, issued a quiet ultimatum to Zinedine Zidane: grant him consecutive matches to build rhythm and watch his resurgence unfold.
Zidane, initially cautious, acquiesced—and the results spoke volumes. In a crucial Champions League clash against Borussia Mönchengladbach, Modric delivered a performance reminiscent of his prime. With Real Madrid’s prestige hanging by a thread, Modric reclaimed his role as the team’s linchpin. His seamless interplay, precise distribution, and tactical intelligence left an indelible mark. The statistics told a compelling story: 107 touches, a flawless 100% success rate in take-ons, 94% passing accuracy, and an overwhelming influence in the opposition half with 54 passes completed.
This renaissance underlined Modric’s resilience and adaptability. At a crossroads in his career, he demonstrated that mastery isn’t just about talent but also about determination and self-belief. His rigorous fitness regimen and unwavering discipline ensure he remains a formidable presence, capable of competing at the highest level for seasons to come.
Modric’s journey, however, has been anything but facile. Behind the elegance lies a story of unyielding grit, a testament to the Croatian’s indomitable spirit. He has transformed challenges into milestones, emerging not just as a great player but as a symbol of perseverance and excellence in the beautiful game.
The Early Days – War and Football
Luka Modrić’s story begins on September 9, 1985, in the rugged hamlet of Modrići, nestled on the southern slopes of Mount Velebit, north of Zadar in SR Croatia—then part of SFR Yugoslavia. Born to Stipe Modrić of Modrići and Radojka Dopud of Kruševo, near Obrovac, Luka was the eldest of their children. His parents, initially employed in a knitwear factory, led a modest life that shaped Luka’s early years. Much of his childhood unfolded in the stone house of his grandfather, Luka, after whom he was named. It was there, amid the rocky terrain, that young Luka spent his days shepherding goats, an unassuming prelude to his future greatness.
Yet, his idyllic beginnings were soon overshadowed by the Croatian War of Independence. In 1991, as the conflict escalated, the Modrić family’s world was upended. Luka’s grandfather was tragically executed by Serb rebels aligned with the police of SAO Krajina, and their family home was set ablaze. Forced to flee, the Modrićs became refugees, finding shelter in the Hotel Kolovare in Zadar, where they lived for seven years before moving to the Hotel Iž. Despite the harrowing circumstances, young Luka’s resilience began to take shape.
The war left an indelible mark on Modrić, though he recalls much of it through the lens of childhood innocence. Shielded by his parents and surrounded by friends, football became his sanctuary. In the hotel parking lot, amidst the echoes of falling shells, Luka’s love for the game flourished. Even as bombs rained down on Zadar, football offered an escape—a glimmer of normalcy amid chaos. His father, Stipe, joined the Croatian Army as an aeromechanic, while the family scraped together what little they had to support Luka’s burgeoning passion.
In 1992, Luka simultaneously enrolled in primary school and a sports academy, the latter funded by meagre family savings, often supplemented by his uncle. Inspired by Croatian football icon Zvonimir Boban and Italian maestro Francesco Totti, Modrić began honing his craft. Under the guidance of Coach Domagoj Bačić and Tomislav Bašić, the head of NK Zadar’s youth academy—whom Luka would later regard as his “sporting father”—he took his first steps toward greatness. Despite the hardships of war, Bašić recognized Modrić’s potential and nurtured his talent with unwavering dedication.
The path was far from smooth. Modrić’s slight frame and youthful appearance led Croatian powerhouse Hajduk Split to overlook him, deeming him too young and light for their ranks. Yet, Luka’s determination was undeterred. His performances at youth tournaments, including a notable display in Italy, caught the attention of scouts. It was Bašić who orchestrated his pivotal move to Dinamo Zagreb in late 2001 when Modrić was just 16 years old.
The relentless shelling of Zadar and the trials of war forged Modrić’s character, imbuing him with a resilience that would later define his career. Childhood friend Marijan Buljat recalled the harrowing yet formative days: “It happened a million times that we were going to training as the shells were falling, running to shelters.” This crucible of adversity tempered Modrić’s spirit, preparing him for the challenges of professional football and shaping the tenacity that would become his hallmark.
From a refugee child playing football in a hotel parking lot to one of the greatest midfielders of his generation, Luka Modrić’s journey is a testament to the triumph of perseverance over adversity. His early struggles laid the foundation for a career built on grit, resilience, and an unyielding love for the beautiful game.
A Move To The Bosnian Premier League
After a season with Dinamo Zagreb's youth academy, Luka Modrić's professional journey took a pivotal turn in 2003 when he was loaned to Zrinjski Mostar, a club in the Bosnian Premier League. At just 18 years old, he swiftly made his mark, establishing a reputation for his versatility and composure in the face of the league's notoriously physical demands. Modrić’s performances were nothing short of exceptional, earning him the prestigious Bosnian Premier League Player of the Year award—a testament to his burgeoning talent. Reflecting on this formative experience, Modrić remarked, "Someone who can play in the Bosnian Premier League can play anywhere," acknowledging the tough, uncompromising nature of the competition that had sharpened his skills.
In 2004, Modrić’s development continued with a loan move to Croatian side Inter Zaprešić. There, he played a crucial role in the team’s remarkable rise to second place in the Prva HNL, securing a spot in the preliminary round of the UEFA Cup. Modrić’s influence on the pitch was undeniable, as he orchestrated play with a maturity beyond his years. His efforts were recognized with the Croatian Football Hope of the Year award, further solidifying his status as one of the country's most promising talents.
By 2005, Modrić had returned to Dinamo Zagreb, ready to take the next step in his career. His time away had honed his skills, expanded his tactical understanding, and imbued him with the resilience that would define his future success. The journey through Zrinjski Mostar and Inter Zaprešić not only shaped his playing style but also forged the mental toughness that would serve him well in the years to come.
The Days in Zagreb
In the 2005–06 season, Luka Modrić cemented his commitment to Dinamo Zagreb by signing a ten-year contract, a gesture that underscored both his loyalty to the club and his growing stature within Croatian football. With the financial security provided by the contract, Modrić made a personal gesture of support for his family, purchasing a flat in Zadar, a symbol of his success and desire to provide stability for those closest to him.
On the pitch, Modrić quickly established himself as an integral part of Dinamo’s first team. In his debut season, he contributed seven goals in 31 appearances, playing a pivotal role in securing the league title. His influence was not just in scoring but in orchestrating the team's offensive play, displaying a maturity and vision that belied his age. The following season, Dinamo once again clinched the league title, with Modrić maintaining his high level of performance, providing key assists and creating opportunities that allowed the team to thrive.
In the 2006–07 season, Modrić’s importance to Dinamo became even more pronounced as he developed a symbiotic partnership with striker Eduardo. Modrić, ever the creative force, became the primary provider for Eduardo, a relationship that was instrumental in Dinamo’s attacking success. His ability to thread passes with pinpoint precision earned him the Prva HNL Player of the Year award, an acknowledgement of his growing reputation as one of the finest midfielders in the region.
The following season, Modrić’s leadership qualities came to the fore as he was appointed team captain. Under his guidance, Dinamo launched a determined bid to qualify for the 2007–08 UEFA Cup, a campaign that showcased his tactical intelligence and ability to inspire those around him. Modrić’s influence extended beyond individual accolades, as he became the heartbeat of the team, orchestrating play with an elegance and poise that were matched only by his tenacity.
By the end of his four-year tenure at Dinamo, Modrić had amassed over 31 goals and 29 assists in league play, a remarkable tally for a player whose primary role was that of a creator rather than a finisher. His most significant contribution came in the 2007–08 season when Dinamo not only won their second Croatian Cup but also secured the league title with a commanding 28-point margin, a testament to their dominance in Croatian football.
Modrić’s performances did not go unnoticed on the European stage. Clubs such as Barcelona, Arsenal, and Chelsea regularly monitored his progress, recognizing the unique blend of technical brilliance, tactical awareness, and leadership that he brought to the pitch. His time at Dinamo Zagreb was marked by a period of personal and collective growth, setting the stage for the next chapter of his illustrious career.
The Journey in the English Premier League - Tottenham Hotspur
On April 26, 2008, Luka Modrić agreed to terms with Tottenham Hotspur, marking the beginning of a new chapter in his career. His transfer was the first of many signings for manager Juande Ramos that summer and also the Premier League’s inaugural transfer of the season. With Manchester City and Newcastle United expressing interest, Tottenham chairman Daniel Levy swiftly travelled to Zagreb to secure the deal, ensuring that Modrić would join the club for a then-record £16.5 million, a fee that matched the club’s previous record set by Darren Bent’s move in 2007. Modrić was handed the number 14 jersey, a tribute to his footballing idol, Johan Cruyff, reflecting the deep respect he held for the Dutch legend.
However, Modrić’s early days at Tottenham were far from easy. A knee injury early in his tenure set him back, and sections of the media, including Arsenal manager Arsène Wenger, labelled him as too lightweight for the physical demands of the Premier League. Modrić, ever resilient, responded to these criticisms with characteristic defiance, saying, “Such critics push you forward to show people they are wrong. Maybe I look lightweight, but I am a really strong person mentally and physically, and I never had any problems with my size.” His initial struggles, compounded by his lack of form, led to concerns about his place in the team, as well as doubts from Croatia’s national team coach, Slaven Bilić.
During his early months at Spurs, Modrić was deployed in a number 10 role, a position that didn’t fully leverage his strengths. He was later shifted to the left wing, where he played alongside Wilson Palacios, but his versatility, while valuable, became a double-edged sword. As his teammate Tom Huddlestone remarked, “His versatility was probably a blessing and a curse; he was that good that he had to play out of position for a bit.” It was only after the appointment of Harry Redknapp as manager that Modrić’s true potential began to shine. Redknapp placed him in a more familiar central or left-sided midfield role, allowing him to exert greater influence on the game and showcase his technical brilliance. Modrić’s performances flourished under this tactical shift, and he began to demonstrate the qualities that would define his career: vision, creativity, and composure under pressure.
Ahead of the 2009–10 season, Redknapp lauded Modrić’s work ethic and versatility, describing him as a “manager’s dream” who could seamlessly integrate into any top-four team. “He trains like a demon and never complains, will work with and without the ball on the field, and can beat a defender with a trick or with a pass,” Redknapp said, highlighting the Croatian’s all-around ability and tireless commitment. Modrić, for his part, expressed his deep satisfaction with Tottenham and his belief in the club’s trajectory. On May 30, 2010, he signed a new six-year contract that would keep him at Spurs until 2016. Reflecting on his decision, Modrić stated, “Tottenham Hotspur gave me my chance in the Premier League, and I want to go on to achieve great success here with them. Yes, there have been inquiries from other big clubs, but I have no interest in going anywhere. Last season’s top-four finish was an indication of where we are as a club, and I feel I can continue to improve and go on to achieve everything I want at Spurs.”
Modrić’s commitment to Tottenham during this period was a testament to his character: a player who, despite early setbacks, remained determined to prove his worth and achieve greatness on his own terms. His loyalty to the club and his belief in its potential reflected a broader sense of ambition—both personal and collective—that would shape the rest of his career.
The Chelsea Move Was Blocked – Modric Continues to Grow
In the summer of 2011, Luka Modrić found himself at the centre of intense transfer speculation, as Chelsea made a determined attempt to secure his services after a stellar season with Tottenham Hotspur. The Croatian playmaker had been named Spurs' Player of the Season, a reflection of his exceptional performances that had helped elevate the club to new heights. Chelsea, under the ownership of Roman Abramovich, came knocking with an invitation for Modrić to discuss terms aboard the Russian billionaire’s superyacht. However, Tottenham’s chairman, Daniel Levy, stood firm in his resolve to keep Modrić at White Hart Lane, rejecting three separate bids from the London club. Despite Modrić’s openness to a move, the transfer never materialized, and he remained at Spurs for another season.
Modrić’s influence on the pitch during the 2010–11 campaign was undeniable. His performances were nothing short of mesmerizing, particularly in a memorable match against Manchester United in January 2011. After a 0–0 draw, Spurs manager Harry Redknapp lauded Modrić’s brilliance, describing him as "unbelievable" and "magnificent." Redknapp remarked, "He's an amazing footballer; the little man takes the ball in the tightest areas with people around him, wriggling out of situations. He could play in any team in the world." These words encapsulated Modrić’s unique ability to thrive in congested spaces, his deftness in tight situations, and his capacity to dictate the flow of a game.
The 2010–11 season also marked Tottenham’s debut in the UEFA Champions League, where Modrić played a crucial role. In the opening match against Inter Milan at the San Siro, he was forced off early due to injury, and Spurs were narrowly defeated 4–3 despite a heroic performance from Gareth Bale. However, in the return leg at White Hart Lane, Modrić was given the freedom to orchestrate play, and he seized the opportunity. His ability to control the tempo of the match was evident as he assisted Rafael van der Vaart’s opening goal in a 3–1 victory. Modrić continued to shine in the competition, scoring a crucial goal against Werder Bremen in a 2–0 win. Despite a scoreless draw against AC Milan and a subsequent quarter-final exit at the hands of Real Madrid, Modrić’s performances had already cemented his status as one of Europe’s finest midfielders.
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Domestically, Modrić’s contributions were equally impressive. He played 32 Premier League matches in the 2010–11 season, scoring three goals, providing two assists, and registering the highest average number of passes per match for Spurs—62.5, with an accuracy rate of 87.4%. His ability to retain possession, dictate play, and link up with teammates was unparalleled, and his performances earned him the Tottenham Hotspur Player of the Year award. Even Sir Alex Ferguson, then-manager of Manchester United, acknowledged Modrić’s brilliance, stating that he would have selected the Croatian as his Player of the Year for the season.
As the summer transfer window drew to a close, Modrić’s name continued to be linked with a move to Chelsea, but it was Real Madrid who had been quietly monitoring his progress. Despite the heavy speculation surrounding his potential transfer to Stamford Bridge, Modrić’s brilliance had not gone unnoticed by Florentino Pérez, Real Madrid’s president. The Spanish giants had long been interested in Modrić’s exceptional skill set, and it was clear that they were prepared to make their move when the time was right.
Estadio Santigo Bernabeu
On 27 August 2012, Real Madrid confirmed the completion of Luka Modrić’s transfer from Tottenham Hotspur, securing his services for an approximate £30 million fee. The Croatian midfielder, who had long been admired for his technical finesse and playmaking ability, signed a five-year contract with the Spanish giants. At his unveiling press conference in Madrid, Modrić conveyed a sense of determination and optimism: "I'm ready for everything. I'm going to work hard for the team, and hopefully, my qualities can bring success to the team." He continued, expressing his pride in joining the club, "I am proud and honoured to be here... It's an honour to play for Real Madrid. It's the best and the world's greatest football club."
Modrić’s debut came just two days after the announcement, in the high-stakes environment of the 2012 Supercopa de España final against Barcelona at the Santiago Bernabéu. Replacing Mesut Özil in the 83rd minute, Modrić was part of the squad that secured a 2–1 victory, handing him his first piece of silverware with the club within 36 hours of his arrival. The triumph marked an auspicious start to his Real Madrid career, yet the road ahead would prove to be more challenging.
In the early stages of his time in Madrid, Modrić struggled to find his rhythm under manager José Mourinho. His lack of pre-season training, a result of the protracted nature of his transfer negotiations, meant he was behind his teammates in terms of match fitness. The midfield was already well-stocked with established figures such as Xabi Alonso, Sami Khedira, and Mesut Özil, who frequently occupied the starting positions. Modrić, therefore, found himself relegated to substitute appearances, often playing out of position in a bid to fit into the team’s tactical setup. His debut in the UEFA Champions League came on 18 September 2012, in a thrilling 3–2 victory over Manchester City, but it was clear that he had yet to fully integrate into the squad.
Despite these early struggles, Modrić began to show glimpses of his brilliance as the season progressed. On 3 November 2012, he scored his first goal for Real Madrid in a 4–0 demolition of Real Zaragoza in La Liga, a timely contribution that hinted at his growing confidence. Two weeks later, he produced a stunning 50-meter cross-field pass to assist a Karim Benzema goal, which was eventually credited as an own goal to Athletic Bilbao’s Jon Aurtenetxe. Modrić’s vision and technical prowess were further on display in a 5–1 victory over Bilbao, and in December, he orchestrated two assists in a 4–1 win over Ajax in the Champions League, providing precise passes for Cristiano Ronaldo and José Callejón.
However, despite these flashes of brilliance, Modrić’s early season was marred by criticism. At the end of 2012, he was voted the "worst signing of the season" by the Spanish newspaper Marca, a reflection of the heightened expectations surrounding his high-profile transfer. This harsh judgment underscored the challenges Modrić faced in adapting to the demands of a club as prestigious as Real Madrid, where success is often expected immediately. Yet, this period of scrutiny would soon give way to a deeper understanding of his abilities, as Modrić's true influence on the pitch began to emerge in the following seasons.
But Modric Never Gave Up
In the 2013 El Clásico, Luka Modrić delivered a decisive contribution to Real Madrid’s 2–1 victory over Barcelona, providing the assist from a corner kick that allowed Sergio Ramos to score the winning goal in the 82nd minute. This moment was emblematic of Modrić's growing influence at the club, as he demonstrated the ability to deliver in high-pressure situations.
Later that season, Modrić's role in a pivotal Champions League knockout tie against Manchester United further solidified his place in the team's narrative. With Real Madrid trailing by a goal at Old Trafford, Modrić entered as a second-half substitute and, with a stunning long-range shot from 25 yards, equalized for Madrid. His composed play in the remainder of the match helped propel the team to a 2–1 victory, securing their 3–2 aggregate progression to the quarter-finals. This performance marked a turning point in Modrić’s Real Madrid career, as he began to emerge from the shadows of earlier criticism to become an indispensable figure in the midfield.
Modrić’s consistency continued in the 2012–13 Champions League semi-finals against Borussia Dortmund. In the first leg, he struggled to influence the match as Madrid suffered a 4–1 defeat. However, in the second leg, Modrić played a more prominent role, deployed as a deep-lying playmaker. His passing range and ability to control the tempo of the game were on full display, as he orchestrated several chances and was one of the standout performers in Madrid’s 2–0 victory. This match further underscored Modrić’s growing importance, particularly in orchestrating Madrid’s play from deep positions.
By March 2013, Modrić’s form had reached new heights. His technical mastery in the midfield allowed him to consistently complete the most passes in the team, a testament to his increasing influence on the pitch. As the 2013–14 season began, the arrival of manager Carlo Ancelotti heralded a new chapter for Modrić. Under Ancelotti’s guidance, Modrić became one of the team’s most reliable starters, often partnering with Xabi Alonso to form a midfield duo that balanced defensive stability with attacking creativity. Modrić’s passing accuracy remained exceptional, with an average of 90% in La Liga, while his ability to recover the ball made him a central figure in Madrid’s midfield.
Predrag Mijatović, reflecting on Modrić’s development, remarked, “He’s the head of midfield in a complicated environment. Every day in Madrid, pressure is coming at you from all sides. Modrić not only withstands the pressure but has grown among it to be Madrid's best player, alongside [Cristiano] Ronaldo.” This praise highlighted the maturity Modrić had gained, particularly in the face of the intense scrutiny that comes with playing for one of the world’s most demanding clubs.
Modrić’s influence continued to grow throughout the season. He scored his first goal of the 2013–14 Champions League campaign in a 2–0 win over Copenhagen, marking his fifth goal for the club, all of which had come from outside the penalty area. His first La Liga goal of the season came in a 3–0 victory over Getafe, further demonstrating his ability to contribute both in defensive duties and in attack.
Modrić’s performances were integral to Real Madrid’s triumphs that season. He played a crucial role in the 2013–14 Copa del Rey final, where Madrid defeated Barcelona 2–1. In the Champions League quarter-finals, Modrić’s interception and subsequent assist to Cristiano Ronaldo in the first leg against Borussia Dortmund helped Madrid to a 3–0 victory, a scoreline that proved decisive in their progression despite a 2–0 loss in the second leg.
In his 100th appearance for Real Madrid, Modrić again provided an assist in the second leg of the Champions League semi-final against Bayern Munich, helping Madrid to a 4–0 victory and securing their place in the final for the first time in 12 years. Modrić’s performances were so impactful that he was included in UEFA’s Team of the Week for both legs of the semi-final.
The pinnacle of Modrić’s season came in the 2014 Champions League final, where his assist from a corner kick helped Sergio Ramos score a dramatic 93rd-minute equalizer against Atlético Madrid. Real Madrid went on to win 4–1 in extra time, securing their tenth European Cup title, known as La Décima. Modrić’s contribution to this triumph was pivotal, and his performances throughout the campaign earned him a place in the UEFA Champions League Team of the Season. Furthermore, his excellence in La Liga was recognized with the LFP award for the “Best Midfielder” of the season, cementing his status as one of the world’s finest midfielders and a key figure in Real Madrid’s most successful era.
Becoming The Best in the World
The 2014 World Cup in Brazil proved to be a disappointment for Croatia, as they were eliminated in the group stages, a setback that mirrored the struggles of their talismanic midfielder, Luka Modrić. However, the narrative surrounding Modrić and Real Madrid was far from over, as the club underwent significant changes in the aftermath of their 2014 success. In the 2015–16 season, Carlo Ancelotti was replaced by Rafael Benítez, a managerial shift that was met with scepticism by many. Under Benítez, Real Madrid faltered, yet Modrić's role remained constant. The Spaniard, perhaps recognizing the Croatian's importance, kept Modrić as a central figure in the midfield, ensuring that the team's play continued to revolve around his technical brilliance.
Despite the club's struggles, Modrić maintained his form, providing stability in a team that seemed to be in disarray. Benítez's tenure was short-lived, and Zinedine Zidane’s arrival marked a turning point for both the team and Modrić. Zidane, understanding the intricacies of midfield control, formed a pivotal trio with Modrić, Toni Kroos, and Casemiro, who provided the defensive cover that allowed Modrić and Kroos to dictate the tempo of the game. The Croatian was lauded in the media as the "Master of the game," a “connector” between defence and attack, a player whose vision and intelligence elevated those around him. Under Zidane, Modrić flourished, growing in stature and influence, his passing range and leadership qualities making him one of the most formidable midfielders in world football.
The 2017–18 season marked the peak of Modrić’s career at Real Madrid. Following the departure of James Rodríguez, Modrić inherited the coveted number 10 jersey, a symbolic gesture that reflected his status within the team. His performances were instrumental in Real Madrid’s historic run, winning the Champions League three times in a row, as well as securing the La Liga title in 2017. Modrić's vision, sharpness, and decision-making were pivotal in Madrid's successes, with the Croatian consistently playing a leading role in key moments. In the 2016–17 Champions League final against Juventus, Modrić provided the assist for Cristiano Ronaldo's second goal, further cementing his reputation as a player capable of influencing the biggest matches.
Modrić's individual accolades continued to accumulate. He was named to both the Champions League and La Liga Team of the Season, and for the second time, he received the LFP award for "Best Midfielder" in Spain. His inclusion in the FIFA FIFPro World XI for the second consecutive year underscored his global recognition. Modrić's brilliance was not confined to club football alone; in December 2017, he was awarded the Golden Ball at the FIFA Club World Cup for his performances, further solidifying his place among the elite.
The 2017–18 season also saw Modrić’s influence grow on the international stage. With the departure of Cristiano Ronaldo to Juventus, Modrić's Real Madrid jersey became the most requested by fans, a testament to his rising stature. However, it was the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia where Modrić truly elevated his legacy. Croatia, drawn into a tough group with Argentina, Iceland, and Nigeria, exceeded expectations, with Modrić playing a pivotal role in their success. Croatia's 3–0 victory over Argentina, which saw Modrić score a stunning long-range goal, was a defining moment in the tournament. Modrić’s ability to control the flow of the game, even in the most intense moments, was on full display as Croatia advanced to the final, where they were ultimately defeated by France.
Throughout the tournament, Modrić was at his finest, running tirelessly, making decisive passes, and displaying a level of composure that belied his 33 years. His decision-making, often underappreciated, was exceptional; he seemed to always make the right choice at the right moment. Modrić's ability to break through defensive lines and orchestrate play in the most complex of situations was a hallmark of his performances. His leadership and intelligence were crucial to Croatia’s remarkable World Cup run, and his individual efforts did not go unnoticed. Modrić was awarded the Golden Ball as the best player of the tournament, and later that year, he claimed the UEFA Men's Player of the Year Award and The Best FIFA Men’s Player Award. In December 2018, he made history by winning the Ballon d'Or, the first player other than Lionel Messi or Cristiano Ronaldo to claim the prestigious award since 2007.
Reflecting on Modrić’s career, Gérard Houllier, the former French football manager, praised his work ethic and intelligence, stating, “Not only is he a very hard worker, but he also has a good brain and he provided some calmness and composure to the midfield. His passing was neat and his contribution was outstanding.” Houllier’s assessment encapsulated the essence of Modrić’s impact on the field. He was not just a hard-working midfielder; he was the heartbeat of his teams, making those around him better with his vision and intelligence.
Conclusion
Modrić’s journey has been one of resilience, overcoming setbacks to become one of the finest midfielders in football history. From the early years of criticism and struggle to his triumphant World Cup campaign and continued success at Real Madrid, Modrić has proven time and again that he is a player who refuses to be written off. His performances in the 2018 World Cup and his subsequent individual accolades only solidified his place among the greats of the game.
At 33, Modrić’s career could have been on the decline, but instead, he has defied expectations, proving that age is but a number for a player of his calibre. His ability to continue to influence games at the highest level means that Real Madrid cannot afford to lose him. Modrić is not just a player; he is a symbol of resilience, intelligence, and excellence in modern football. His legacy, already firmly established, continues to grow with each passing season.
Thank You
Faisal Caesar
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