Luka Modrić: Difference between revisions
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{{short description|Croatian footballer (born 1985)}} |
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{{Redirect|Modrić|other uses|Modric (disambiguation){{!}}Modric}} |
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{{pp-pc}} |
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{{use dmy dates|date=February 2013}} |
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{{EngvarB|date=March 2023}} |
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{{Use dmy dates|date=July 2024}} |
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{{Infobox football biography |
{{Infobox football biography |
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| name |
| name = Luka Modrić |
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| image |
| image = Luka Modric Interview 2021 (cropped).jpg |
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| caption |
| caption = Modrić in 2021 |
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| full_name = Luka Modrić<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.fifadata.com/documents/FWC/2018/pdf/FWC_2018_SQUADLISTS.PDF |title=FIFA World Cup Russia 2018: List of Players: Croatia |publisher=FIFA |page=7 |date=15 July 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190611000407/https://www.fifadata.com/documents/FWC/2018/pdf/FWC_2018_SQUADLISTS.PDF |archive-date=11 June 2019}}</ref> |
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| fullname = Luka Modrić<ref name="Hugman2010-11 290">{{Cite book| editor-first = Barry J.| editor-last = Hugman| title = The PFA Footballers' Who's Who 2010–11| year = 2010| publisher = Mainstream Publishing| isbn = 978-1-84596-601-0| page = 290 }}</ref> |
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| birth_date = {{birth date and age|1985|9|9|df=y}}<ref>{{Cite book |editor-first=Barry J. |editor-last=Hugman |title=The PFA Footballers' Who's Who 2010–11 |year=2010 |publisher=Mainstream Publishing |isbn=978-1-84596-601-0 |page=290}}</ref> |
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| birth_date = {{Birth date and age|1985|09|09|df=y}} |
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| birth_place |
| birth_place = [[Zadar]], [[Socialist Republic of Croatia|SR Croatia]], [[Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia|SFR Yugoslavia]] |
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| height |
| height = 1.72 m<ref name="Real Profile">{{cite web |url=http://www.realmadrid.com/en/football/squad/luka-modric |title=Player Profile |publisher=Real Madrid CF |access-date=18 November 2017 |archive-date=24 November 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171124114931/http://www.realmadrid.com/en/football/squad/luka-modric |url-status=live }}</ref> |
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| position |
| position = [[Midfielder]] |
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| currentclub |
| currentclub = [[Real Madrid CF|Real Madrid]] |
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| clubnumber |
| clubnumber = 10 |
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| youthyears1 |
| youthyears1 = 1996–2000 |
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| youthclubs1 = [[NK Zadar|Zadar]] |
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| youthyears2 = 2002–2003 |
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| youthyears2 = 2000–2003 |
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| youthclubs1 = [[NK Zadar|Zadar]] |
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| youthclubs2 |
| youthclubs2 = [[GNK Dinamo Zagreb Academy|Dinamo Zagreb]] |
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| years1 |
| years1 = 2003–2008 |
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| clubs1 |
| clubs1 = [[GNK Dinamo Zagreb|Dinamo Zagreb]] |
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| caps1 |
| caps1 = 94 |
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| goals1 |
| goals1 = 26 |
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| years2 |
| years2 = 2003–2004 |
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| clubs2 |
| clubs2 = → [[HŠK Zrinjski Mostar|Zrinjski Mostar]] (loan) |
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| caps2 |
| caps2 = 25 |
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| goals2 |
| goals2 = 8 |
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| years3 |
| years3 = 2004–2005 |
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| clubs3 |
| clubs3 = → [[NK Inter Zaprešić|Inter Zaprešić]] (loan) |
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| caps3 |
| caps3 = 18 |
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| goals3 |
| goals3 = 4 |
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| years4 |
| years4 = 2008–2012 |
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| clubs4 |
| clubs4 = [[Tottenham Hotspur F.C.|Tottenham Hotspur]] |
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| caps4 |
| caps4 = 127 |
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| goals4 |
| goals4 = 13 |
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| years5 |
| years5 = 2012– |
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| clubs5 |
| clubs5 = [[Real Madrid CF|Real Madrid]] |
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| caps5 |
| caps5 = 359 |
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| goals5 |
| goals5 = 28 |
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| nationalyears1 |
| nationalyears1 = 2001 |
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| nationalyears2 |
| nationalyears2 = 2001 |
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| nationalyears3 |
| nationalyears3 = 2003 |
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| nationalyears4 |
| nationalyears4 = 2003–2004 |
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| nationalyears5 |
| nationalyears5 = 2004–2005 |
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| nationalyears6 |
| nationalyears6 = 2006– |
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| nationalteam1 |
| nationalteam1 = [[Croatia national under-15 football team|Croatia U15]] |
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| nationalteam2 |
| nationalteam2 = [[Croatia national under-17 football team|Croatia U17]] |
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| nationalteam3 |
| nationalteam3 = [[Croatia national under-18 football team|Croatia U18]] |
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| nationalteam4 |
| nationalteam4 = [[Croatia national under-19 football team|Croatia U19]] |
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| nationalteam5 |
| nationalteam5 = [[Croatia national under-21 football team|Croatia U21]] |
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| nationalteam6 |
| nationalteam6 = [[Croatia national football team|Croatia]] |
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| nationalcaps1 |
| nationalcaps1 = 2 |
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| nationalcaps2 |
| nationalcaps2 = 2 |
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| nationalcaps3 |
| nationalcaps3 = 7 |
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| nationalcaps4 |
| nationalcaps4 = 11 |
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| nationalcaps5 |
| nationalcaps5 = 15 |
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| nationalcaps6 |
| nationalcaps6 = 178 |
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| nationalgoals1 |
| nationalgoals1 = 0 |
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| nationalgoals2 |
| nationalgoals2 = 0 |
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| nationalgoals3 |
| nationalgoals3 = 0 |
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| nationalgoals4 |
| nationalgoals4 = 1 |
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| nationalgoals5 |
| nationalgoals5 = 2 |
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| nationalgoals6 |
| nationalgoals6 = 26 |
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| club-update |
| club-update = 20:58, 25 May 2024 (UTC) |
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| nationalteam-update = |
| nationalteam-update = 23:00, 24 June 2024 (UTC) |
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| medaltemplates = {{Medal|Country|{{fb|CRO}}}} |
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{{Medal|Comp|[[FIFA World Cup]]}} |
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{{Medal|RU|[[2018 FIFA World Cup|2018 Russia]]|}} |
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{{Medal|Bronze|[[2022 FIFA World Cup|2022 Qatar]]|}} |
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{{Medal|Comp|[[UEFA Nations League]]}} |
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{{Medal|RU|[[2023 UEFA Nations League Finals|2023 Netherlands]]|}} |
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| module = {{Infobox person|embed=yes |
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| signature = Luka Modrić signature.svg |
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}} |
}} |
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}} |
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'''Luka Modrić''' ({{IPA-sh|ˈluːka ˈmoːdrit͡ɕ|hr}}; born 9 September 1985) is a Croatian [[Association football|footballer]] who plays for [[Real Madrid C.F.|Real Madrid]] and the [[Croatia national football team]]. Modrić plays mainly as a [[central midfielder]], but can also play as an [[attacking midfielder]] and [[winger (association football)|winger]]. After showing promise in hometown club [[NK Zadar|Zadar]]'s youth team, he was signed by Dinamo Zagreb as a teenager in 2002. His professional career began with loan spells at [[NK Zrinjski Mostar|Zrinjski Mostar]] and [[NK Inter Zaprešić|Inter Zaprešić]].<ref name="waryears">{{cite web| url=http://blogs.notw.co.uk/sport/2008/06/modric-war-hell.html|title=Modric War Hell|author=|publisher=''News of the World''|accessdate=2008-08-14}}</ref> |
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'''Luka Modrić''' ({{IPA|hr|lûːka mǒːdritɕ}};<ref>{{cite web|url=http://hjp.znanje.hr/index.php?show=search_by_id&id=e15vWBE%3D|title=Lȗka|quote=Lȗka|website=Hrvatski jezični portal|access-date=17 March 2018|language=sh|archive-date=26 December 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181226035134/http://hjp.znanje.hr/index.php?show=search_by_id&id=e15vWBE%3D|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://hjp.znanje.hr/index.php?show=search_by_id&id=e1lhWBM%3D&keyword=modar|title=mȍdar|quote=Módrić|website=Hrvatski jezični portal|access-date=17 March 2018|language=sh|archive-date=26 December 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181226035136/http://hjp.znanje.hr/index.php?show=search_by_id&id=e1lhWBM%3D&keyword=modar|url-status=live}}</ref> born 9 September 1985) is a Croatian professional [[Association football|footballer]] who plays as a [[midfielder]] and [[Captain (association football)|captains]] both [[La Liga]] club [[Real Madrid CF|Real Madrid]] and the [[Croatia national football team|Croatia national team]].<ref>{{Cite web |date=23 June 2024 |title=Real Madrid's next captain revealed as Nacho Fernandez closes in on Saudi Arabia transfer {{!}} Goal.com |url=https://www.goal.com/en/lists/real-madrid-s-next-captain-revealed-as-nacho-fernandez-closes-in-on-saudi-arabia-transfer/blt861c0c6fa78dd42f |access-date=25 June 2024 |website=www.goal.com |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=24 June 2024 |title=Real Madrid decide new captain as Nacho nears exit – report |url=https://sports.yahoo.com/real-madrid-decide-captain-nacho-180000851.html |access-date=25 June 2024 |website=Yahoo Sports |language=en-US}}</ref> He is regarded as one of the greatest midfielders of all time,<ref>{{Cite web |date=24 June 2024 |title=Luka Modric: How Croatia idol defied the odds to become one of football's greatest players |url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/articles/cekklk4p2v7o |access-date=25 June 2024 |website=BBC Sport |language=en-GB}}</ref>{{#tag:ref| |
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*Tweedale, Alistair (17 September 2014). "[https://www.whoscored.com/Articles/mjk1X3mqIkuZEsOXI7Pp-Q/Show/Player-Focus-Modest-Modric-Madrids-Superstar-in-the-Shadows Modest Modric Madrid's Superstar in the Shadows]". WhoScored.Com. Retrieved 16 June 2018. "It is fair to say with [[Xavi (footballer, born 1980)|Xavi]]'s decline Modric is now ahead of him in the pecking order, and he, [[Toni Kroos|Kroos]], [[Cesc Fàbregas]] and [[Andrea Pirlo]] are now arguably the best technical central midfielders on the planet at present, and some might even say that Modric is, or could soon be, leading the pack." |
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*Maw, James (2 December 2014). "[https://www.fourfourtwo.com/features/ice-cold-luka-modric-now-real-madrids-second-most-important-galactico 'Ice cold' Luka Modric now Real Madrid's second most important Galactico]. [[FourFourTwo]]. Retrieved 15 December 2021. |
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*Balseiro, Jesús (29 May 2016). "[https://en.as.com/en/2016/05/29/football/1464526060_073093.html Madrid season player review]". [[Diario AS]]. Retrieved 14 July 2017. |
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*[[Gabriele Marcotti|Marcotti, Gabriele]] (14 November 2016). "[http://www.espn.com/soccer/blog/espn-fc-united-blog/68/post/2986441/espn-fc-100-real-madrid-star-luka-modric-is-ranked-as-the-best-central-midfielder?src=com Real Madrid star Luka Modric is ranked as the best central midfielder]". [[ESPN FC]]. Retrieved 16 June 2018. |
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*Bidwell, Nick (11 March 2017). "[http://www.worldsoccer.com/features/europes-best-midfielder-luka-modric-biography-396393 Europe's best midfielder? Luka Modric biography]". [[World Soccer (magazine)|World Soccer]]. Retrieved 16 June 2018. |
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*Ronay, Barney (12 May 2017). "[https://www.theguardian.com/football/blog/2017/may/12/luka-modric-real-madrid-barney-ronay All hail Luka Modric, the maestro who makes Real Madrid's superstars tick]". [[The Guardian]]. Retrieved 16 June 2018. |
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*Madu, Zito (3 June 2017). "[https://www.sbnation.com/soccer/2017/6/3/15735510/luka-modric-2017-uefa-champions-league-final-real-madrid-juventus Luka Modrić was the most important player in Real Madrid's run to back-to-back Champions League titles]". [[SB Nation]]. Retrieved 16 June 2018. |
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*Kalvapalle, Rahul (4 June 2017). "[http://www.marca.com/en/football/real-madrid/2017/06/04/593443dde5fdea5a0c8b45a2.html Magisterial Modric leaves Juventus chasing shadows]". [[Marca (newspaper)|Marca]]. Retrieved 15 July 2017. |
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*Burton, Chris. (6 October 2017). "[http://www.goal.com/en-us/news/modric-one-of-the-best-midfielders-ever-madrid-star-saluted/9coo5xrnymcj1edespp8xdrhq Luka Modric one of the best midfielder ever]". Goal.com. Retrieved 16 June 2018. "Croatian playmaker Modric is yet to earn similar acclaim, amid a Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi duopoly of top individual awards, but his undoubted quality is not lost on those in Madrid and around the world." |
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*Sherman, Justin. (19 October 2017) "[https://thesefootballtimes.co/2017/10/09/the-making-of-luka-modric-from-war-torn-croatia-to-the-worlds-best-midfielder/ The making of Luka Modric from war-torn Croatia to the world's best midfielder]". The Football Times. Retrieved 16 June 2018 |
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*Buskulic, Ante; Tironi, Hrvoje Tironi. (18 November 2017). "[http://www.goal.com/en-us/news/how-modric-went-from-rejected-kid-to-the-best-midfielder-in/nbq39is4lpj91cewr005c6kof How Luka Modric went from rejected youth player to the best midfielder in the world]". [[Goal.com]]. Retrieved 16 June 2018. |
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*Cartlidge, David. (15 December 2017). "[https://www.fourfourtwo.com/features/fourfourtwos-100-best-football-players-world-2017-no6-luka-modric FourFourTwo's 100 Best Football Players in the World 2017: No.6, Luka Modric]". FourFourTwo. Retrieved 15 December 2021. |
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*Brown, Euan (22 June 2018). "[https://uk.blastingnews.com/sport/2018/06/luka-modric-its-time-to-give-him-a-seat-at-the-elite-table-002630887.html Luka Modric: It's time to give him a seat at the elite table]". UK Blasting News. Retrieved 1 July 2018. "It's about time [Luka Modric] was recognised as one of the game's all-time greats". |
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*Nakrani, Sachin. (30 June 2018). "[https://www.theguardian.com/football/2018/jun/30/luka-modric-world-cup-croatia-unassuming-genius Luka Modric: the unassuming genius driving Croatia’s tilt at the World Cup]". The Observer. Retrieved 1 July 2018 |
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*Lea, Greg (13 June 2019). "[https://www.fourfourtwo.com/gallery/ranked-15-best-central-midfielders-world Ranked! The 15 best central midfielders in the world]". FourFourTwo. Retrieved 13 April 2022. |
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*N/A (26 July 2019). "[https://www.fourfourtwo.com/features/101-greatest-football-players-last-25-years-full-list Ranked! The 101 greatest football players of the last 25 years: full list]". FourFourTwo. Retrieved 13 April 2022. |
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*90min Staff (20 January 2020). "[https://www.90min.com/posts/6540780-luka-modric-the-most-dominant-midfielder-of-his-generation Luka Modric: The Most Dominant Midfielder of His Generation]". 90min.com. Retrieved 13 April 2022. |
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*HS, Shreyas (12 February 2021). "[https://www.sportskeeda.com/football/10-greatest-midfielders-time-pirlo-iniesta-modric 10 greatest midfielders of all time]". Sportskeeda. Retrieved 15 13 April 2022. |
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*Doyle, Mark; Garganese, Carlo (13 November 2021). "[https://www.goal.com/en/lists/modric-xavi-pirlo-and-the-top-20-central-midfielders-in/1ebm4kahfrrtd17w5bdqswh133#csbc3cf78944d3f053 Modric, Xavi, Pirlo and the top 20 central midfielders in history]". Goal.com. Retrieved 13 April 2022. |
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*Mackenzie, Alasdair (8 April 2022). "[https://www.fourfourtwo.com/features/ranked-the-100-best-players-of-the-21st-century#section-25-11 Ranked! The 100 best players of the 21st Century]". FourFourTwo. Retrieved 13 April 2022. |
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*(10 December 2022) "[https://www.fifa.com/fifaplus/en/articles/world-cup-qatar-2022-croatia-sosa-modric-in-top-five-midfielders-of-all-time-brazil-penalties-quarter-final Sosa: Modric in top five midfielders of all time]". [[FIFA]]. Retrieved 27 January 2024. |
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*Pranggon, Hassan Mehedi (13 December 2022) "[https://www.managingmadrid.com/platform/amp/2022/12/13/23504793/luka-modric-in-a-legendary-league-of-his-own Luka Modrić: In a legendary league of his own]". [[SB Nation]]. Retrieved 23 November 2023.|name=xx1}}<ref>{{Cite web |date=19 September 2023 |title='Luka Modric the best player in the world' – are these the top 25 footballers of 2017? {{!}} Goal.com |url=https://www.goal.com/en/news/modric-the-best-player-in-the-world---are-these-the-top-25-footballers-of-2017/11cbcgx7058df10eizjj6jgsey |access-date=25 June 2024 |website=www.goal.com |language=en}}</ref> and as the best Croatian footballer ever.{{#tag:ref| |
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*Grim, David (22 November 2011). "[https://bleacherreport.com/articles/951728-the-10-most-important-croatian-soccer-players-of-all-time#slide1 The 10 Most Important Croatian Soccer Players of All Time]". [[Bleacher Report]]. Retrieved 1 July 2018. |
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*Moallim, Mohamed (29 December 2017). "[http://www.squawka.com/en/news/luka-modric-is-the-best-croatian-player-in-history/1005630#lXkx36uohfMuRZ2B.97 Luka Modric is the best Croatian player in history]". [[Squawk Australia|Squawka]]. Retrieved 1 July 2018. "There is no way of looking at this in which he (Modric) doesn't deserve the title as the best [Croatian] in history". |
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*Douglas, Steve (29 June 2018). "[https://www.fresnobee.com/sports/article214050609.html Modric the best Croatian player ever]". [[The Fresno Bee]]. "Croatia midfielder [[Ivan Rakitić|Ivan Rakitic]] says teammate Luka Modric plays football "from a different planet" and is the best to have ever played for their [[Croatia national football team|national team]]". |
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*Associated Press (29 June 2018). "[https://www.nytimes.com/aponline/2018/06/29/sports/soccer/ap-soc-wcup-croatia-rakitic.html Modric From 'Different Planet', Says Rakitic]". [[The New York Times]]. Retrieved 29 June 2018. "The technically gifted Prosinecki has long been seen as Croatia's all-time best player, but even he has recently said Modric surpasses him... "If [[Robert Prosinecki]] said that, it has to be true because nobody knows about football more than Prosinecki. And I would agree with him completely," Rakitic said. "Not only that Luka is the best player ever, but he is a great person, a leader and we are following him". |
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*Delač, Hrvoje (11 July 2018). "[https://www.vecernji.hr/sport/mijatovic-otkrio-da-se-svaki-dan-cuje-s-modricem-on-je-najbolji-u-povijest-balkana-1257805 The Real Madrid legend talks to Modrić every day: He is the best in the history of the Balkans"]" (in Croatian). [[Večernji list]]. Retrieved 24 December 2022. |
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*(13 July 2018). "[https://en.as.com/en/2018/07/13/soccer/1531501811_756097.html Didulica hails Luka Modric as Croatia's greatest player: "He's like your little kid brother"]". [[Diario AS]]. Retrieved 13 April 2022. |
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*Cvijanović, Marko (24 August 2018). "[https://www.zadarskilist.hr/clanci/24082018/suker-luka-modric-je-najveci-hrvatski-nogometas-svih-vremena Šuker: Luka Modrić is the greatest Croatian footballer of all time!]" (in Croatian). [[Zadarski list]]. Retrieved 2 September 2018. |
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*Pranggon, Hassan Mehedi (13 December 2022) "[https://www.managingmadrid.com/platform/amp/2022/12/13/23504793/luka-modric-in-a-legendary-league-of-his-own Luka Modrić: In a legendary league of his own]". [[SB Nation]]. Retrieved 23 November 2023.|name=xx2}} He plays mainly as a [[Midfielder#Central midfielder|central midfielder]], but can also play as an [[Midfielder#Attacking midfielder|attacking midfielder]] or as a [[Midfielder#Defensive midfielder|defensive midfielder]]. |
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Modrić began his professional career with Croatian club [[GNK Dinamo Zagreb|Dinamo Zagreb]] in 2003 before spells on loan to Bosnian side [[HŠK Zrinjski Mostar|Zrinjski Mostar]] and Croatian side [[NK Inter Zaprešić|Inter Zaprešić]]. He made his debut for Dinamo in 2005 and his performances earned him a move to [[Premier League]] club [[Tottenham Hotspur F.C.|Tottenham Hotspur]] in 2008, where he led them to [[UEFA Champions League]] qualification in 2010, their first in almost 50 years. In the summer of 2012, Modrić joined Real Madrid for a £30 million transfer fee. In his second season, he won the [[2013–14 UEFA Champions League|2013–14 Champions League]] title, being selected for that season's [[2013–14 UEFA Champions League#Squad of the season|squad of the season]]. After [[Zinedine Zidane]] took over Madrid in 2016, Modrić was a key member of the club's three consecutive Champions League titles from [[2015–16 UEFA Champions League|2015–16]] to [[2017–18 UEFA Champions League|2017–18]], each time being voted into the squad of the season. In total, he has won 26 major trophies at Madrid, including six [[UEFA Champions League]] titles, four La Liga titles, and two [[Copa del Rey]] titles, making him the most decorated footballer in the club's history.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Staunton |first=Peter |date=11 May 2024 |title=Modric agent reveals CRUCIAL date for Madrid contract showdown |url=https://www.footballtransfers.com/en/transfer-news/es-la-liga/2024/05/real-madrid-transfer-news-agent-says-modric-contract-talks-set-for-next-week |access-date=12 May 2024 |website=www.footballtransfers.com |language=en |archive-date=12 May 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240512182222/https://www.footballtransfers.com/en/transfer-news/es-la-liga/2024/05/real-madrid-transfer-news-agent-says-modric-contract-talks-set-for-next-week |url-status=live }}</ref> |
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While he was playing for [[NK Dinamo Zagreb|GNK Dinamo Zagreb]], they won three consecutive league titles and several domestic cups,<ref>{{cite web| url=http://www.rsssf.com/tablesk/kroachamp.html| title=Croatia – List of Champions| author=Bojan Puric, Boris Herceg and Igor Kramarsic| date= | publisher=''Rec.Sport.Soccer Statistics Foundation''| accessdate=2008-08-12}}</ref> with Modrić named [[Prva HNL]] "Player of the Year" in 2007.<ref>{{cite web| url=http://www.javno.com/en/sports/clanak.php?id=108728| title=Modric HNL’s Footballer of the Year|date=2007-12-21| publisher=''Javno''| accessdate=2008-07-23}}</ref> In 2008, he moved to [[Tottenham Hotspur F.C.|Tottenham Hotspur]] in England's [[Premier League]], before moving to Real Madrid in the summer of 2012. |
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Modrić has won numerous individual awards, including the [[Ballon d'Or]] in 2018, making him the first player other than [[Messi–Ronaldo rivalry|Lionel Messi or Cristiano Ronaldo]] to win the award since 2007, [[the Best FIFA Men's Player]], and the [[UEFA Men's Player of the Year Award]], also being named the [[IFFHS World's Best Playmaker#The World's Best Playmaker|IFFHS World's Best Playmaker]] in 2018. He has also been named in the [[FIFPRO#FIFA FIFPRO Men's World 11|FIFPRO World 11]] six times and the [[UEFA Team of the Year]] three times. In 2019, he was awarded the [[Golden Foot]] award for career results and personality. |
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Modrić is a Croatian international and made his debut against [[Argentina national football team|Argentina]] in March 2006. He has since participated in three major tournaments; [[2006 FIFA World Cup]], and UEFA [[UEFA Euro 2008|Euro 2008]] and [[UEFA Euro 2012|2012]]. He scored his first international goal in the friendly match against [[Italy national football team|Italy]], and at the Euro 2008 was included in the UEFA "Team of the Tournament", becoming only the second Croatian to ever achieve this honour. |
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Modrić made his international debut for Croatia against [[Argentina national football team|Argentina]] in March 2006, and scored his first international goal in a friendly match against [[Italy national football team|Italy]]. Modrić has anchored Croatia's "[[Croatia national football team#Dalić period (since 2017)|second Golden Generation]]", participating in every major tournament Croatia has qualified for, including [[UEFA Euro 2008]] to [[UEFA Euro 2024|2024]], as well as the [[2006 FIFA World Cup]] to [[2022 FIFA World Cup|2022]]. At Euro 2008, he was selected for the [[UEFA Euro 2008#UEFA Team of the Tournament|Team of the Tournament]]. Modrić led Croatia to the [[2018 FIFA World Cup final|2018 World Cup final]], winning the [[FIFA World Cup Golden Ball|Golden Ball]] in process. At the 2022 World Cup, he led the team to a [[2022 FIFA World Cup knockout stage#Third place play-off|third-place finish]], winning the [[FIFA World Cup Bronze Ball|Bronze Ball]] in process. In March 2021, he went on to become the country's [[List of Croatia international footballers|most capped player]] in history. Furthermore, he has been named [[Croatian Footballer of the Year]] a record twelve times between 2007 and 2023. |
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==Early life== |
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[[File:Zadar (20069585463).jpg|thumb|Modrić was born in [[Zadar]], Croatia, where he began his youth career at [[NK Zadar]].]] |
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Luka Modrić was born on 9 September 1985 in Zadar and was raised in the hamlet of Modrići, which is a part of [[Zaton Obrovački]],{{sfn|Azpitarte|Puertas|2016|p=20}}{{sfn|Čop|2014|p=15}} a village situated on the southern slopes of the mountain [[Velebit]], north of the city of [[Zadar]] in [[Socialist Republic of Croatia|SR Croatia]], then a republic within [[Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia|SFR Yugoslavia]].<ref name="Stvaran">{{cite web |url=http://www.nogometni-magazin.com/hrv-5022d.shtml |title=Kako je stvaran Luka Modrić |trans-title=Development of Luka Modrić |date=30 December 2007 |publisher=Nogometni-magazin |access-date=20 January 2016 |language=hr |archive-date=18 September 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180918144402/http://www.nogometni-magazin.com/hrv-5022d.shtml |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.jutarnji.hr/filmska-prica-put-od-zatona-obrovackog-do-europskog-trona----modric-je-dokaz-da-je-u-zivotu-sve-moguce/1194068/ |title=Filmska Priča Put od Zatona Obrovačkog do europskog trona... Modrić je dokaz da je sve moguće |trans-title=Film story path from Zaton Obrovački to the European throne... Modrić is proof that anything is possible |first=Alen |last=Orlić |date=26 May 2014 |publisher=[[Jutarnji list]] |access-date=1 September 2014 |language=hr |archive-date=3 September 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140903105417/http://www.jutarnji.hr/filmska-prica-put-od-zatona-obrovackog-do-europskog-trona----modric-je-dokaz-da-je-u-zivotu-sve-moguce/1194068/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="Holiga2012">{{cite news|first=Aleksandar|last=Holiga|url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/blog/2012/oct/04/real-madrid-luka-modric-spurs-bernabeu|title=Real Madrid's Luka Modric: from Balkan warzone to the Bernabéu|date=4 October 2012|work=[[The Guardian]]|access-date=14 July 2017|archive-date=27 March 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190327091804/https://www.theguardian.com/football/blog/2012/oct/04/real-madrid-luka-modric-spurs-bernabeu|url-status=live}}</ref> He is the oldest child of Stipe Modrić from Modrići and Radojka Dopuđ from [[Kruševo, Zadar County|Kruševo]] near [[Obrovac, Croatia|Obrovac]], both of whom initially worked in a knitwear factory.{{sfn|Azpitarte|Puertas|2016|p=17, 20, 22}}<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.jutarnji.hr/otac-luke-modrica-serviser-zrakoplova-hrz-a/231503/ |title=Otac Luke Modrića serviser zrakoplova HRZ-a |trans-title=Father of Luka Modrić service aircraft of the Croatian Air Force |date=14 August 2007 |publisher=Jutarnji list |access-date=30 March 2013 |language=hr |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130923060022/http://www.jutarnji.hr/otac-luke-modrica-serviser-zrakoplova-hrz-a/231503/ |archive-date=23 September 2013}}</ref><ref name=Nacional>{{cite web |url=http://arhiva.nacional.hr/clanak/27001/nogometna-zvijezda-iz-obitelji-prognanika |title=Nogometna zvijezda iz obitelji prognanika |trans-title=Football star from family of exiles |first=Dean |last=Sinovčić |date=14 August 2006 |work=Nacional |access-date=30 March 2013 |language=hr |archive-date=23 October 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181023235238/http://arhiva.nacional.hr/clanak/27001/nogometna-zvijezda-iz-obitelji-prognanika |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.vecernji.hr/premium/luka-modric-odrastanje-i-karijera-521273 |title=Luka Modrić, odrastanje i karijera |trans-title=Luka Modrić, rising up and career |first=Ivica |last=Radoš |date=9 March 2013 |work=Večernji list |access-date=23 June 2018 |language=hr |archive-date=23 June 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180623221845/https://www.vecernji.hr/premium/luka-modric-odrastanje-i-karijera-521273 |url-status=live }}</ref> Modrić mostly spent his early years in the stone house where usually lived his paternal grandfather after whom he was named,{{sfn|Azpitarte|Puertas|2016|p=20}}{{sfn|Čop|2014|p=16}} located on the road above the hamlet of Modrići (this "upper house" was not owned by the family),{{sfn|Modrić|Matteoni|2020|p=5–6|ps=:Kvartirić, Croatia. A small stone house by the side of the road, the last one before the rocky slopes of the Velebit mountains. Six and a half kilometres from my parents' home in Zaton Obrovački. This house was the centre of my little world until 1991, when we had to run away. This is where my father's parents lived: Grandpa Luka and Grandma Jela. My grandfather was a road mender, who maintained the old state road that connected Dalmatia and Lika, the coast and the mountains of Croatia. My grandmother was a housekeeper, a hardworking and modest woman. The house they lived in was owned by the road maintenance company, but back then I knew it only as my grandparents' home. We called it the 'upper house'. I never met my other grandfather, Petar, my mothers's father. He died before I was born. His wife, Grandma Manda, still lives in Obrovac. My parents worked at Trio Clothes Factory in Obrovac, four kilometres from our house. That's where they met.}}<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2020/sep/09/luka-modric-things-that-arent-nice-happen-in-war-but-i-dont-have-hate-croatia-real-madrid-child|title=Luka Modric: 'Things that aren't nice happen in war but I don't have hate'|first=Sid|last=Lowe|date=9 September 2020|work=[[The Guardian]]|access-date=10 December 2020|archive-date=5 October 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201005045741/https://www.theguardian.com/football/2020/sep/09/luka-modric-things-that-arent-nice-happen-in-war-but-i-dont-have-hate-croatia-real-madrid-child|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.metropolitan.si/sportno/luka-modric-to-bi-moral-biti-najsrecnejsi-trenutek-v-moji-karieri-a-ni-bil/|title=Luka Modrić: "To bi moral biti najsrečnejši trenutek v moji karieri, a ni bil."|first=N.|last=Z.|date=26 January 2020|work=Metropolitan|location=Ljubljana, Slovenia|language=sl|access-date=10 December 2020|archive-date=19 September 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200919132654/https://www.metropolitan.si/sportno/luka-modric-to-bi-moral-biti-najsrecnejsi-trenutek-v-moji-karieri-a-ni-bil/|url-status=live}}</ref> and was shepherding goats as a five-year-old.<ref name="ElvirUEFA">{{cite web|author=Elvir Islamović|url=https://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/news/newsid=2570379.html|title=How brilliant is Madrid and Croatia's Luka Modrić?|date=18 September 2018|work=UEFA|access-date=24 September 2018|quote=Ahead of the 2018 World Cup final, video footage emerged of the five-year-old Modrić shepherding goats in Croatia's Velebit mountains.|archive-date=24 September 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180924070459/https://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/news/newsid=2570379.html|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.marca.com/en/football/international-football/2018/09/24/5ba94a2b22601d2e6d8b456a.html|title=Luka Modric: Miracle of the shepherd boy who rose to the top of the world|author=Hugo Cerezo|date=24 September 2018|work=Marca|location=Spain|access-date=24 September 2018|archive-date=25 September 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180925010053/http://www.marca.com/en/football/international-football/2018/09/24/5ba94a2b22601d2e6d8b456a.html|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|author=Mark Taylor|url=https://www.thesportsman.com/articles/incredible-footage-emerges-of-croatia-star-luka-modric-as-a-six-year-old-herding-goats-with-a-stick|title=Incredible Footage Emerges Of Croatia Star Luka Modric As A Six Year Old Herding Goats With A Stick|date=14 July 2018|work=[[The Scotsman]]|access-date=24 September 2018|archive-date=24 September 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180924033808/https://www.thesportsman.com/articles/incredible-footage-emerges-of-croatia-star-luka-modric-as-a-six-year-old-herding-goats-with-a-stick|url-status=live}}</ref> |
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However, his childhood coincided with the [[Croatian War of Independence]]—in 1991, when the war escalated, his family were forced to flee the area.<ref name="Stvaran"/> Modrić's grandfather Luka was executed by [[Log Revolution|Serb rebels]] who were part of the police of [[SAO Krajina]] in December 1991 near his house in Modrići,<ref name="Stvaran"/><ref name="Holiga2012"/><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.vecernji.hr/hrvatska/bivse-milicajce-u-srbiji-ce-ispitati-i-o-likvidaciji-djeda-luke-modrica-305581 |title=Bivše milicajce u Srbiji će ispitati i o likvidaciji djeda Luke Modrića |trans-title=Former policemen in Serbia will be examined for the liquidation of grandfather of the Luka Modrić |author=Ivana Jakelić, Frane Šarić |date=30 June 2014 |publisher=Večernji list |access-date=18 January 2014 |language=hr |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030214040/https://www.vecernji.hr/vijesti/bivse-milicajce-u-srbiji-ce-ispitati-i-o-likvidaciji-djeda-luke-modrica-305581 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="MakingofModric">{{cite news|url=https://thesefootballtimes.co/2017/10/09/the-making-of-luka-modric-from-war-torn-croatia-to-the-worlds-best-midfielder/|title=The making of Luka Modrić from war-torn Croatia to the world's best midfielder|author=Justin Sherman|date=9 October 2017|access-date=20 October 2017|work=These Football Times|archive-date=17 June 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180617015253/https://thesefootballtimes.co/2017/10/09/the-making-of-luka-modric-from-war-torn-croatia-to-the-worlds-best-midfielder/|url-status=live}}</ref> and after the family fled, the house was burned to the ground.{{sfn|Azpitarte|Puertas|2016|p=21–22}}<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.vecernji.hr/sport/cetnici-su-luki-modricu-izresetali-djeda-i-zapalili-kucu-1174084 |title=Četnici su Luki Modriću ubili djeda i zapalili kuću |trans-title=Chetniks killed grandfather of Luka Modrić and burned his house |author=Karlo Ledinski |date=3 June 2017 |publisher=Večernji list |access-date=25 June 2018 |language=hr |archive-date=25 June 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180625213639/https://www.vecernji.hr/sport/cetnici-su-luki-modricu-izresetali-djeda-i-zapalili-kucu-1174084 |url-status=live }}</ref> Modrić became a refugee and lived with his family in the Hotel Kolovare for seven years; he later moved to the Hotel Iž, both in Zadar.<ref name="Stvaran" /><ref name="Boboska">{{cite web |url=http://www.boboska.com/sport/3617-modri-e-nositi-broj-19-donosimo-biografiju-djeaka-iz-obrovca |title=Modrić će nositi broj 19, donosimo biografiju dječaka iz Obrovca |trans-title=Modrić will wear number 19, we bring the biography of a boy from Obrovac |date=28 August 2012 |publisher=Portal Boboska |access-date=30 March 2013 |language=hr |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130925163811/http://www.boboska.com/sport/3617-modri-e-nositi-broj-19-donosimo-biografiju-djeaka-iz-obrovca |archive-date=25 September 2013 |url-status=dead }}</ref><ref name="MarcaBio2017">{{cite news|url=http://www.marca.com/en/football/real-madrid/2017/07/09/596147aa22601df4408b45b1.html|title=Luka Modric's Beverly Hills|first=Hugo|last=Cerezo|date=9 July 2017|work=[[Marca (newspaper)|Marca]]|access-date=14 July 2017|archive-date=4 August 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210804042542/https://www.marca.com/en/football/real-madrid/2017/07/09/596147aa22601df4408b45b1.html|url-status=live}}</ref> His father joined the [[Croatian Army]] as an aeromechanic.<ref name="Stvaran"/>{{sfn|Azpitarte|Puertas|2016|p=22}} In those years, thousands of bombs [[Battle of Zadar|fell on the city]] and football was a way to escape the reality of war.<ref name="Holiga2012" /> He recalls it as a tough time for his family and something which shaped him as a person.<ref name="Nathanson">{{cite news |url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/teams/tottenham-hotspur/3390235/Luka-Modrics-return-to-Dinamo-Zagreb-with-Tottenham-revives-tough-childhood-memories-Football.html |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20220111/https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/teams/tottenham-hotspur/3390235/Luka-Modrics-return-to-Dinamo-Zagreb-with-Tottenham-revives-tough-childhood-memories-Football.html |archive-date=11 January 2022 |url-access=subscription |url-status=live |title=Luka Modric's return to Dinamo Zagreb with Tottenham revives tough childhood memories |first=Patrick |last=Nathanson |date=6 November 2008 |work=The Daily Telegraph |access-date=9 July 2018}}{{cbignore}}</ref><ref name="AlanSmith">{{cite news |url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/leagues/premierleague/tottenham/3853343/Luka-Modric-puts-war-years-behind-him-at-Spurs.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090210114258/http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/leagues/premierleague/tottenham/3853343/Luka-Modric-puts-war-years-behind-him-at-Spurs.html |url-status=dead |archive-date=10 February 2009 |title=Luka Modric puts war years behind him at Spurs |first=Alan |last=Smith |date=19 December 2008 |work=The Daily Telegraph |access-date=11 May 2011}}</ref><ref name="BoyMarca">{{cite news|url=http://www.marca.com/2012/06/29/en/football/real_madrid/1340959296.html|title=The boy with the wooden shin pads|first=Juan|last=Castro|date=29 June 2012|work=Marca|location=Spain|access-date=9 July 2017|archive-date=17 August 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210817161002/https://www.marca.com/2012/06/29/en/football/real_madrid/1340959296.html|url-status=live}}</ref> He also said he was mostly unaware of the war because he befriended many other children and their parents did not let it affect their childhood.<ref name="Nacional" /> |
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In these difficult circumstances, Modrić began playing football, mostly at the hotel parking lot.<ref name="Holiga2012" /> In 1992, he simultaneously entered the primary school and a sporting academy, the latter paid for with the little money the family had, sometimes helped by Modrić's uncle.<ref name="Stvaran" /><ref name="Boboska" /><ref name="Nacional" /> As a boy he was inspired to play football by [[Zvonimir Boban]] and [[Francesco Totti]].<ref name="ready to play">{{cite news|url=http://www.marca.com/2012/08/27/en/football/real_madrid/1346080483.html|title=Modric: "I'm ready to play against Barcelona"|first=Alba|last=Redondo|date=27 August 2012|work=Marca|location=Spain|access-date=13 July 2017|archive-date=13 July 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180713140148/http://www.marca.com/2012/08/27/en/football/real_madrid/1346080483.html|url-status=live}}</ref> |
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==Club career== |
==Club career== |
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===Early years=== |
===Early years=== |
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Supported by his family, Modrić participated in representative camps and trained in [[NK Zadar]].<ref name="Stvaran"/><ref name="Nacional"/> He was under the tutelage of coach Domagoj Bašić and the head of the youth academy, Tomislav Bašić.<ref name="Stvaran"/> Tomislav Bašić, considered by Modrić as his "sporting father",<ref name="MakingofModric"/><ref name="MarcaBio2017"/> said Modrić's father made him wooden shin guards because they had little money.<ref name="Stvaran"/><ref name="Nathanson"/><ref name="BoyMarca"/> However, Modrić later denied the story.<ref name="Holiga2012"/> Due to being considered too young and light, he was not signed by Croatian powerhouse [[HNK Hajduk Split|Hajduk Split]], the most representative football club in the region of [[Dalmatia]].<ref name="Stvaran"/><ref name="Nacional"/><ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.slobodnadalmacija.hr/Nogomet/tabid/84/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/185582/Default.aspx |title=Modrića je u Hajduk doveo Džoni, ali bio im je fizički slabašan |trans-title=Modrić was brought to Hajduk by Džoni, but for them physically weak |first=Dražen |last=Žura |date=28 August 2012 |work=Slobodna Dalmacija |access-date=20 January 2016 |language=hr |archive-date=30 August 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120830230252/http://www.slobodnadalmacija.hr/Nogomet/tabid/84/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/185582/Default.aspx |url-status=live }}</ref> After displaying some talent, including at a youth tournament in Italy,<ref name="MakingofModric"/> Tomislav Bašić arranged Modrić's move to [[GNK Dinamo Zagreb|Dinamo Zagreb]] when Modrić was a 16-year-old in late 2001.<ref name="Stvaran"/><ref name="Holiga2012"/><ref name="BBC Interview2014">{{cite web |url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/26290691 |title=Luka Modric: Real Madrid midfielder outshining the rest |date=21 February 2014 |first=David |last=Ornstein |work=BBC Sport |access-date=20 January 2016 |archive-date=24 September 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150924202231/http://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/26290691 |url-status=live }}</ref> After a season with Dinamo Zagreb's youth side, Modrić was loaned in 2003 to [[HŠK Zrinjski Mostar|Zrinjski Mostar]] in the [[Premier League of Bosnia and Herzegovina|Bosnian Premier League]].<ref name="Stvaran" /><ref name="MakingofModric" /> During this period, he established his versatile style of play and became the Bosnian Premier League Player of the Year at only the age of 18.<ref name="Mid">{{cite web |url=http://theworldgame.sbs.com.au/home/index.php?pid=st&cid=103104 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090112041540/http://theworldgame.sbs.com.au/home/index.php?pid=st&cid=103104 |title=Modric in demand |date=2 January 2008 |archive-date=12 January 2009 |work=The World Game |access-date=23 July 2008}}</ref> Modrić later said, "Someone who can play in the Bosnian Premier League can play anywhere," referring to its physical nature.<ref name="Mid" /> The following year, he was loaned to Croatian side [[NK Inter Zaprešić|Inter Zaprešić]]. He spent one season there, helping the team to achieve second position in the [[2004–05 Croatian First Football League|Prva HNL]]<ref name="MakingofModric" /><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.rsssf.org/tablesk/kroa03.html |title=Croatia – 2002/03 |author=Brunislav Matasovic |website=[[RSSSF]] |access-date=12 August 2008 |archive-date=9 July 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220709063823/https://www.rsssf.org/tablesk/kroa03.html |url-status=live }}</ref> and a place in the preliminary round of the [[2005–06 UEFA Cup|UEFA Cup]]. He also won the [[Croatian Footballer of the Year#Croatian Footballer of the Year (1991–present)|Croatian Football Hope of the Year]] award in 2004.<ref name="Mid" /> He returned to Dinamo Zagreb in 2005.<ref name="Mid" /> |
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Luka Modrić was born in [[Socialist Republic of Croatia|SR Croatia]], then a republic within [[SFR Yugoslavia]]. He is the oldest child of [[aeromechanics|aeromechanic]], Stipe Modrić and Radojka Modrić, a housewife.<ref>{{cite web| url=http://www.jutarnji.hr/otac-luke-modrica-serviser-zrakoplova-hrz-a/231503/| title=Otac Luke Modrića serviser zrakoplova HRZ-a| date=2007-08-14| publisher=Jutarnji list| accessdate=2013-03-30| language=Croatian}}</ref> His childhood coincided with the [[Croatian War of Independence]], and in 1991, when the war escalated, his family was forced to flee the area when he was 6 years old. His father joined the Croatian army, and during the war, Modrić lost his grandfather. At the time of the aggression, Modrić, as refugee, lived in a hotel in Zadar, with his family.<ref name="Boboska">{{cite web| url=http://www.boboska.com/sport/3617-modri-e-nositi-broj-19-donosimo-biografiju-djeaka-iz-obrovca| title=Modrić će nositi broj 19, donosimo biografiju dječaka iz Obrovca| date=2012-08-27| publisher=Portal Boboska| accessdate=2013-03-30| language=Croatian}}</ref> Modrić stated that, most of the time, he wasn't aware of the war because there were many children he befriended, and their parents did not let it affect their childhood.<ref name=Nacional>{{cite web| url=http://www.nacional.hr/clanak/27001/nogometna-zvijezda-iz-obitelji-prognanika| title=Nogometna zvijezda iz obitelji prognanika| author=Dean Sinovčić| date=2006-08-14| work=Nacional| accessdate=2013-03-30| language=Croatian}}</ref> It was in these difficult circumstances that Modrić began playing football. He simultaneously entered the primary school, and with the little money the family had that was earned by his father was enrolled in the local sporting academy.<ref name="Boboska"/><ref name="Nacional"/> Supported by his family, he managed to participate in few representative camps, and train in [[NK Zadar]],<ref name="Nacional"/> and after displaying some talent, Luka signed with [[Dinamo Zagreb]] as a 16-year old in 2002.<ref name="waryears"/> |
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After a season with Dinamo Zagreb's youth side, he was loaned out in 2003 to [[NK Zrinjski Mostar|Zrinjski Mostar]] in the [[Premier League of Bosnia and Herzegovina]]. During this spell, he established his versatile style of play and became the ''Bosnian and Herzegovinian League Player of the Year'' while still only 18 years old.<ref name="Mid">{{cite web| url=http://theworldgame.sbs.com.au/home/index.php?pid=st&cid=103104| title=Modric in demand| date=2 January 2008| publisher=''The World Game''| accessdate=2008-07-23}}</ref> He later claimed that "someone who can play in the Bosnian league can play anywhere", referring to its physical nature.<ref name="Mid"/> The following year, he was again loaned out, this time to [[NK Inter Zaprešić|Inter Zaprešić]] in his home country. He spent one season with them, helping the team to achieve 2nd position in the Croatian first league,<ref>{{cite web| url=http://www.rsssf.com/tablesk/kroa03.html| title=Croatia – 2002/03| author=Brunislav Matasovic| date= | publisher=''Rec.Sport.Soccer Statistics Foundation''| accessdate=2008-08-12}}</ref> and a place in UEFA Cup (now Europa League) preliminary round, as well as being awarded the ''Croatian Football Hope of the Year'' award in 2004.<ref name="modricspursability">{{cite web| title=Modric keen to earn his Spurs| url=http://www.teamtalk.com/football/story/0,16368,1784_3550863,00.html| author=| date=| publisher=''Teamtalk''| accessdate=2008-08-11}}</ref> He returned to Dinamo Zagreb in 2005.<ref name="Mid" /> |
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===Dinamo Zagreb=== |
===Dinamo Zagreb=== |
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In the [[2005–06 Croatian First Football League|2005–06 season]], Modrić signed a ten-year contract (his first long-term contract) with Dinamo Zagreb.<ref name="Mid"/> With the contract's earnings, he bought a flat in Zadar for his family.<ref name="Holiga2012"/><ref name="MakingofModric"/> He secured a place in Dinamo's first team, contributing 7 goals in 31 matches to help win the league.<ref name="NFT">{{NFT player|id=13117|name=Luka Modric |accessdate=14 August 2008}}</ref> In the [[2006–07 NK Dinamo Zagreb season|2006–07 season]], Dinamo again won the league, with Modrić making a similar contribution.<ref name="NFT" /> He was the main provider for striker [[Eduardo da Silva|Eduardo]],<ref name="Mid"/> which helped Modrić win the [[Prva HNL Player of the Year (Tportal)|Prva HNL Player of the Year]] award.<ref name="Real Profile"/> The following season, Modrić as a team captain,<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.jutarnji.hr/arhiva/luka-modric-ostaje-u-dinamu/3860673/ |title=Luka Modrić ostaje u Dinamu! |date=29 December 2007 |publisher=Jutarnji list |access-date=25 November 2019 |language=hr |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030214041/https://www.jutarnji.hr/naslovnica/luka-modric-ostaje-u-dinamu-3860673 |url-status=live }}</ref> led Dinamo's attempt to qualify for the [[2007–08 UEFA Cup]]. In the final play-off stage, Modrić converted a penalty in the second and away fixture against [[AFC Ajax|Ajax]]; the match finished 1–1 after regular time. Dinamo won the match and play-off with a score of 3–2 after [[Overtime (sports)|extra time]] with two goals from teammate [[Mario Mandžukić]].<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.jutarnji.hr/uzivo--ajax---dinamo-2-3/271111/ |title=Live: Ajax – Dinamo 2–3 |date=4 October 2007 |publisher=Jutarnji list |access-date=20 January 2006 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160213135534/http://www.jutarnji.hr/uzivo--ajax---dinamo-2-3/271111/ |archive-date=13 February 2016 }}</ref> However, Dinamo Zagreb failed to advance beyond the group stage. In his last home match with the club at [[Maksimir Stadium]], Modrić was given a standing ovation and fans held up supportive banners.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.javno.com/en/sports/clanak.php?id=104378 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090115202630/http://www.javno.com/en/sports/clanak.php?id=104378 |title=Modric's Last Dance at Maksimir Stadium |date=6 December 2007 |archive-date=15 January 2009 |publisher=Javno |access-date=14 August 2008}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://croatia.worldcupblog.org/croatia/dinamo-dominate-modric-bids-farewell.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131109223602/http://croatia.worldcupblog.org/croatia/dinamo-dominate-modric-bids-farewell.html |title=Dinamo Dominate, Modric Bids Farewell |author=Mario |date=11 May 2008 |archive-date=9 November 2013 |publisher=World Cup blog |access-date=12 August 2008}}</ref> He finished his four-year tenure at Dinamo with a tally of over 31 goals and 29 assists in four league seasons,<ref name="MakingofModric"/><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.1hnl.net/igrac.php?id=682 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120213152953/http://www.1hnl.net/igrac.php?id=682 |title=Luka Modric – statistika |archive-date=13 February 2012 |publisher=Hrvatska Nogometna Liga |language=hr |access-date=12 June 2008}}</ref> contributing most notably in the [[2007–08 NK Dinamo Zagreb season|2007–08 season]] when Dinamo won the second [[2007–08 Croatian Football Cup|Croatian Cup]] and became champions by a 28-point margin.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.ezadar.hr/clanak/rekordni-dinamo-s-28-bodova-razlike-najuvjerljiviji-prvak |title=Rekordni Dinamo: S 28 bodova razlike najuvjerljiviji prvak |trans-title=A record high Dinamo: With 28 points difference most convincing champion |date=19 May 2008 |publisher=ezadar.hr |language=hr |access-date=18 March 2013 |archive-date=9 November 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131109212151/http://www.ezadar.hr/clanak/rekordni-dinamo-s-28-bodova-razlike-najuvjerljiviji-prvak |url-status=live }}</ref> Modrić was courted by [[FC Barcelona|Barcelona]], [[Arsenal F.C.|Arsenal]] and [[Chelsea F.C.|Chelsea]], but opted to wait leaving the club.<ref name="MakingofModric"/><ref name="Wilson2016">{{cite news|url=http://www.eurosport.com/football/champions-league/2015-2016/luka-modric-the-elegant-maestro-dictating-from-deep_sto5611605/story.shtml|title=Luka Modric: The elegant maestro dictating from deep|last=Wilson|first=Jonathan|date=27 May 2016|access-date=15 July 2017|publisher=[[Eurosport]]|author-link=Jonathan Wilson (writer)|archive-date=30 October 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030214039/https://www.eurosport.com/geoblocking.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="Dutch">{{cite web |url=http://www.uefa.com/news/newsid=653642.html |title=Dutch test for the Croatian Cruyff |first=Elvir |last=Islamović |date=7 February 2008 |work=UEFA |access-date=19 January 2015 |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030214039/https://www.uefa.com/uefaeuro/history/news/0254-0d7bc1f7fe32-c786430661fb-1000--dutch-test-for-the-croatian-cruyff/ |url-status=live }}</ref> |
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In 2005, Modrić signed his first long-term contract with Dinamo, for ten years. After a goalless first season, he managed to secure a place in Dinamo's first team, contributing 7 goals in 31 matches to help win the league.<ref name="modricseasonstats">{{NFT player|pid=13117|Luka Modric|accessdate=2008-08-14}}</ref> During this time, Modrić rapidly established his role as [[playmaker]] or designated left winger in the team's 4–2–3–1 formation.{{citation needed|date=February 2013}} |
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In the 2006–07 season, Dinamo again won the league with Modrić making a similar contribution,<ref name = "modricseasonstats" /> acknowledged by the ''Prva HNL Player of the Year'' award. The following season, he led Dinamo's attempt to qualify for the [[UEFA Cup 2007–08|UEFA Cup]]. In the final play-off stage, Modrić converted a penalty in the away fixture against [[AFC Ajax]] in a game that ended 1–1 after regular time. Dinamo then went on to win the game 3–2 in extra time after a brace from teammate [[Mario Mandžukić]] secured their win on away goals.<ref>{{cite news| url=http://www.news.com.au/adelaidenow/story/0,22606,22535165-12428,00.html| title=Ajax cleaned up by Dinamo| author=Stuart Condie| date=2007-10-05| publisher=''AdelaideNow''| accessdate=2008-08-14}}</ref> However, Dinamo Zagreb still failed to advance beyond the group stage. At his last home game with the club at [[Maksimir Stadium]], Modrić was given a standing ovation and fans held up supportive banners.<ref>{{cite web| url=http://www.javno.com/en/sports/clanak.php?id=104378| title=Modric’s Last Dance at Maksimir Stadium| author=| date=2007-12-06| publisher=''Javno''| accessdate=2008-08-14}}</ref><ref>{{cite web| url=http://croatia.worldcupblog.org/croatia/dinamo-dominate-modric-bids-farewell.html| title=Dinamo Dominate, Modric Bids Farewell| author=Mario| date=2008-05-11| publisher=''World Cup blog''| accessdate=2008-08-12}}</ref> He finished his impressive six-year tenure at Dinamo with a tally of 31 goals and 29 assists in four seasons,<ref>{{cite web| url=http://www.1hnl.net/igrac.php?id=682| title=Luka Modric – statistika| author=| date=| publisher=''Hrvatska Nogometna Liga'' | language=Croatian| accessdate=2008-06-12}}</ref> contributing most notably in the 2007–08 season when Dinamo became champions by a 28-point margin and won the Croatian Cup in the same year.<ref>{{cite web| url=http://www.ezadar.hr/clanak/rekordni-dinamo-s-28-bodova-razlike-najuvjerljiviji-prvak| title=Rekordni Dinamo: S 28 bodova razlike najuvjerljiviji prvak| date=2008-05-19| publisher=ezadar.hr| language=Croatian| accessdate=2013-03-18}}</ref> |
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===Tottenham Hotspur=== |
===Tottenham Hotspur=== |
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====2008–10: Struggle and success in England==== |
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[[File:Luka Modrić spurs.jpg|thumb|right|Modrić lining up for [[Tottenham Hotspur F.C.|Tottenham Hotspur]] in August 2008]] |
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Modrić agreed to transfer terms with [[Tottenham Hotspur F.C.|Tottenham Hotspur]] on 26 April 2008. He was the first of many summer signings for manager [[Juande Ramos]], and was also the [[2008–09 Premier League|Premier League]]'s first summer transfer.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/t/tottenham_hotspur/7368463.stm |title=Spurs sign Croatian star Modric |date=26 April 2008 |work=BBC Sport |access-date=26 April 2008 |archive-date=1 May 2008 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080501023335/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/t/tottenham_hotspur/7368463.stm |url-status=live }}</ref> Club chairman [[Daniel Levy (businessman)|Daniel Levy]] promptly flew to [[Zagreb]] when [[Manchester City F.C.|Manchester City]] and [[Newcastle United F.C.|Newcastle United]] became interested,<ref name="Stand">{{cite news|url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/world-cup/2018/06/30/luka-modric-having-stand-out-world-cup-no-surprise-former/ |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20220111/https://www.telegraph.co.uk/world-cup/2018/06/30/luka-modric-having-stand-out-world-cup-no-surprise-former/ |archive-date=11 January 2022 |url-access=subscription |url-status=live|title=Luka Modric is having a stand-out World Cup – but it is no surprise to his former coaches|last=Wilson|first=Jeremy|date=30 June 2018|work=The Daily Telegraph|access-date=3 July 2018}}{{cbignore}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/luka-modric-is-named-best-player-in-the-world-mo-salah-wins-puskas-award-for-everton-goal-slft3t5bb|title=Luka Modric is named best player in the world; Mo Salah wins Puskas award for Everton goal|author=Martyn Ziegler|date=25 September 2018|work=[[The Times]]|access-date=25 September 2018|quote=...ten years after Newcastle United spurned a chance to sign him on the grounds he was "not good enough for the Premier League".|archive-date=25 September 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180925003332/https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/luka-modric-is-named-best-player-in-the-world-mo-salah-wins-puskas-award-for-everton-goal-slft3t5bb|url-status=live}}</ref> and after signing a six-year contract, Tottenham confirmed the transfer fee paid was £16.5 million, equalling the club's record fee set by [[Darren Bent]]'s move in 2007.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/t/tottenham_hotspur/7373163.stm |title=Spurs equal record fee for Modric |date=29 April 2008 |work=BBC Sport |access-date=29 April 2008 |archive-date=2 May 2008 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080502152308/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/t/tottenham_hotspur/7373163.stm |url-status=live }}</ref> He got the [[Squad number (association football)|number 14]] [[Kit (association football)|jersey]], later recalling that he wore it in honour of [[Johan Cruyff]].<ref name="MarcaFFInterview">{{Cite news|url=https://www.marca.com/en/football/real-madrid/2018/12/04/5c065514e2704e2a178b4599.html|title=Modric: I'm happy that somebody normal can win the Ballon d'Or|work=Marca|location=Spain|date=4 December 2018|access-date=4 December 2018|archive-date=4 December 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181204152307/https://www.marca.com/en/football/real-madrid/2018/12/04/5c065514e2704e2a178b4599.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Modrić made his competitive Premier League debut on 16 August in a 2–1 defeat to [[Middlesbrough F.C.|Middlesbrough]] at the [[Riverside Stadium]] in Spurs' first match of the [[2008–09 Tottenham Hotspur F.C. season|2008–09 season]].<ref>{{cite news |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_prem/7551168.stm |title=Middlesbrough 2–1 Tottenham |last=Lyon |first=Sam |date=16 August 2008 |work=BBC Sport |access-date=19 August 2008 |archive-date=29 August 2008 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080829003158/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_prem/7551168.stm |url-status=live }}</ref> |
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====2008–09 season==== |
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Modrić agreed transfer terms with [[Tottenham Hotspur F.C.|Tottenham Hotspur]] on 26 April 2008. He was the first of many summer signings for coach [[Juande Ramos]] and was also the Premier League's first summer transfer.<ref>{{cite news| url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/t/tottenham_hotspur/7368463.stm| title=Spurs sign Croatian star Modric| date=2008-04-26| publisher=''BBC Sport''| accessdate=2008-04-26}}</ref> After signing a six-year contract from summer 2008,<ref>{{cite web| url=http://www.tottenhamhotspur.com/news/articles/playertransferlukamodric290408.html| title=Player Transfer – Luka Modric| author=| date=2008-04-29| publisher=''TottenhamHotspur.com''| accessdate=2008-06-12}}</ref> Tottenham confirmed that the total fee paid was £16.5 million, equalling the club's record fee set by [[Darren Bent]]'s move in 2007.<ref>{{cite news| url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/t/tottenham_hotspur/7373163.stm| title=Spurs equal record fee for Modric| date=2008-04-29| publisher=''BBC Sport''| accessdate=2008-04-29}}</ref> Modrić made his debut for Tottenham on 28 July 2008 in a pre-season friendly against [[Norwich City F.C.|Norwich City]]. He played 45 minutes at [[Carrow Road]] during the 1–5 victory.<ref>{{cite news| url=http://new.edp24.co.uk/content/sport/story.aspx?brand=EDPOnline&category=Sport&tBrand=EDPOnline&tCategory=Sport&itemid=NOED28%20Jul%202008%2019%3A41%3A54%3A060| title=Norwich v Tottenham: Latest| date=2008-07-28| publisher=''EDP24 Sport''| accessdate=2008-07-28}}</ref> Two days later, on 30 July, Modrić scored his first goal for the club in the 1–5 victory against [[Leyton Orient F.C.|Leyton Orient]]. His competitive Premier League's debut was on 16 August in the 2–1 defeat by [[Middlesbrough F.C.|Middlesbrough]] at the [[Riverside Stadium]] in Spurs' first match of the [[Premier League 2008–09|2008–09 season]].<ref>{{cite news| url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_prem/7551168.stm| title=Middlesbrough 2–1 Tottenham| last=Lyon| first=Sam| date=2008-08-16| publisher=BBC Sport| accessdate=2008-08-19}}</ref> |
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Modrić had a slow start at Tottenham. He suffered from a knee injury early in his tenure and was labelled as a light-weight for the Premier League by sections of the media,<ref name="BBC Interview2014"/><ref name="AlanSmith"/> as well as Arsenal manager [[Arsène Wenger]].<ref name="Ice Cold">{{cite news |url=http://www.fourfourtwo.com/features/ice-cold-luka-modric-now-real-madrids-second-most-important-galactico |title='Ice cold' Luka Modric now Real Madrid's second most important Galactico |first=James |last=Maw |date=2 December 2014 |work=FourFourTwo |access-date=20 January 2016 |archive-date=6 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210606104411/https://www.fourfourtwo.com/features/ice-cold-luka-modric-now-real-madrids-second-most-important-galactico |url-status=live }}</ref> Reflecting on that, Modrić said that 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".<ref name="BBC Interview2014"/> This coincided with his poor form, leading to concerns both for himself and Croatia national team head coach [[Slaven Bilić]].<ref name="Ice Cold"/> Modrić spent his early days at the number 10 position, before being shifted to the left wing to play alongside [[Wilson Palacios]].<ref name="Ice Cold"/> Spurs teammate [[Tom Huddlestone]] later said, "[H]is versatility was probably a blessing and a curse, he was that good that he had to play out of position for a bit."<ref name="Ice Cold"/> |
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[[File:Tottenham warmup, Wigan Athletic v Tottenham Hotspur, 21st February 2010.jpg|thumb|right|Modrić warming up before a game against Wigan, in 2010.]] |
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Initially, Spurs used him as a [[deep-lying playmaker]] in central midfield, usually alongside [[Jermaine Jenas]], to utilise his passing range, vision, and creativity to optimum effect. Then-manager Juande Ramos, however, deployed him in an extremely deep defensive midfield role, which his slight frame was not physically suited to. Before joining Tottenham, his greatest success had come in a more advanced, attacking left-sided role; playing him out of position limited his influence. Modrić also suffered from a niggling knee injury early in his Spurs career and he had to endure being labelled as a "light-weight" by sections of the media.<ref>{{cite news| url=http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/leagues/premierleague/tottenham/3853343/Luka-Modric-puts-war-years-behind-him-at-Spurs.html| title=Luka Modric puts war years behind him at Spurs| first=Alan| last=Smith| date=2008-12-19| work=The Daily Telegraph| location=London| accessdate=2010-05-11}}</ref> This coincided with his poor form, knocking his confidence and making him even less effective, leading to concerns both for himself and Croatia manager [[Slaven Bilić]].<ref>{{cite news| url=http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/sport/football/article1792790.ece| title=Modric admits to poor start| date=2008-10-10| work=The Sun| location=London}}</ref> |
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After the appointment of manager [[Harry Redknapp]], Modrić was given a more familiar role as a central or left-sided midfielder, allowing him to have more influence on the team and use his footballing talent more productively, for example in a 4–4 draw with [[North London derby|arch-rivals]] Arsenal on 29 October.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_prem/7684610.stm |title=Arsenal 4–4 Tottenham |first=Phil |last=McNulty |date=29 October 2008 |work=BBC Sport |access-date=11 May 2011 |archive-date=1 November 2008 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081101001205/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_prem/7684610.stm |url-status=live }}</ref> Redknapp recognised Modrić's value to his side and planned to shape his new team around the Croatian playmaker. He scored his first competitive goal at Tottenham in a 2–2 draw against [[FC Spartak Moscow|Spartak Moscow]] during the [[2008-09 UEFA Cup|UEFA Cup]] group stages on 18 December 2008.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/europe/7775427.stm |title=Tottenham 2–2 Spartak Moscow |first=Ian |last=Hughes |date=18 December 2008 |work=BBC Sport |access-date=21 December 2008 |archive-date=19 December 2008 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081219124646/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/europe/7775427.stm |url-status=live }}</ref> He scored his first Premier League goals against [[Newcastle United F.C.|Newcastle United]] in an away defeat on 21 December, a home win in the [[2008–09 FA Cup|third round]] of the [[FA Cup]] against [[Wigan Athletic F.C.|Wigan Athletic]] on 2 January 2009, and in an away defeat against [[Manchester United F.C.|Manchester United]] on 25 April 2009.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_prem/7775574.stm |title=Newcastle 2–1 Tottenham |first=Saj |last=Chowdhury |date=21 December 2008 |work=BBC Sport |access-date=21 December 2008 |archive-date=22 December 2008 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081222013224/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_prem/7775574.stm |url-status=live }}</ref> Using Modrić in his former position from his Dinamo days made him more effective with performances against [[Stoke City F.C.|Stoke City]],<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/spurs-prove-troubles-lie-in-their-minds-not-their-boots-1517975.html|title=Spurs prove troubles lie in their minds not their boots|date=29 January 2009|work=The Independent|access-date=11 July 2018|archive-date=16 July 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180716093303/https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/spurs-prove-troubles-lie-in-their-minds-not-their-boots-1517975.html|url-status=live}}</ref> [[Hull City A.F.C.|Hull City]],<ref>{{cite news |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_prem/7885857.stm |title=Hull 1–2 Tottenham |first=Jamie |last=Lillywhite |date=23 February 2009 |work=BBC Sport |access-date=30 August 2009 |archive-date=26 February 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090226154035/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_prem/7885857.stm |url-status=live }}</ref> and most notably on 21 March when he scored the only goal in a win against Chelsea.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/7937098.stm |title=Tottenham 1–0 Chelsea |first=Sam |last=Lyon |date=21 March 2009 |work=BBC Sport |access-date=30 August 2009 |archive-date=4 July 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180704154241/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/7937098.stm |url-status=live }}</ref> |
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With the appointment of manager [[Harry Redknapp]], Modrić was given a more familiar advanced attacking role as a central or left-sided midfielder, which had been a problem position for Tottenham in the past. In the first few months of the 2008–09 season until the 2009 January transfer window, Modrić assumed a far more advanced role as a [[second striker]] behind one of Tottenham's two recognised first-team strikers, [[Roman Pavlyuchenko]] or Darren Bent. This allowed Modrić to have a far more attacking influence on the team and also utilise his footballing brain more productively, as in the thrilling 4–4 draw with [[North London derby|arch-rivals]] [[Arsenal F.C.|Arsenal]] on 26 October 2008.<ref>{{cite news| url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_prem/7684610.stm| title=Arsenal 4–4 Tottenham| first=Phil| last=McNulty| date=2008-10-29| work=BBC News| accessdate=2010-05-11}}</ref> Modrić's impact in this position was well demonstrated with Tottenham's fourth and equalising goal when he collected the ball on his chest from [[Tom Huddlestone]], and after a few controlled touches, unleashed a long-range half-volley which, courtesy of a deflection, hit the post and set up [[Aaron Lennon]] for a tap-in. Since this performance, his form improved considerably for Spurs, coinciding with his club's vastly improved form in the league. Redknapp recognised Modrić's value to his side, setting out plans to shape his new team around the Croatian playmaker.<ref>{{cite web| url=http://www.metro.co.uk/sport/football/article.html?Ill_build_Spurs_team_around_Modric_and_Palacios,_insists_Redknapp&in_article_id=508217&in_page_id=43| title=I'll build Spurs team around Modrić and Palacios, insists Redknapp| date=2011-01-28| accessdate=2011-02-20}}</ref> |
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Before the [[2009–10 Tottenham Hotspur F.C. season|2009–10 season]], Redknapp said of Modrić, "[He's] a hell of a player and a manager's dream, so I am told. 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. He could get into any team in the top four".<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.squawka.com/en/news/why-croatia-maestro-luka-modric-is-the-most-underrated-star-at-euro-2016/693337#OBpceFd6cC2dDJLR.97 |title=Why Croatia maestro Luka Modric is the most underrated star at Euro 2016 |first=Ashley |last=Hover |date=12 June 2016 |publisher=Squawka |access-date=12 July 2018 |archive-date=12 July 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180712092002/https://www.squawka.com/en/news/why-croatia-maestro-luka-modric-is-the-most-underrated-star-at-euro-2016/693337#OBpceFd6cC2dDJLR.97 |url-status=live }}</ref> On 29 August 2009, during Tottenham's 2–1 win over [[Birmingham City F.C.|Birmingham City]], Modrić was taken off injured with a suspected calf injury.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_prem/8224017.stm |title=Tottenham 2–1 Birmingham |first=Sam |last=Lyon |date=29 August 2009 |work=BBC Sport |access-date=30 August 2009 |archive-date=21 August 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230821193622/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/8224017.stm |url-status=live }}</ref> The following day, it was confirmed Modrić had sustained a fracture to his right [[fibula]] and was expected to be out for six weeks.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/t/tottenham_hotspur/8229223.stm |title=Spurs suffer Modric injury blow. |date=30 August 2009 |work=BBC Sport |access-date=30 August 2009 |archive-date=13 March 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220313002509/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/t/tottenham_hotspur/8229223.stm |url-status=live }}</ref> He returned on 28 December in the [[London derbies|London derby]] against [[West Ham United F.C.|West Ham United]], which Spurs won 2–0 with an 11th-minute goal scored by Modrić using the leg he had broken.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/8429768.stm |title=Tottenham 2–0 West Ham |date=28 December 2009 |first=David |last=Ornstein |work=BBC Sport |access-date=20 January 2016 |archive-date=8 July 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180708105642/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/8429768.stm |url-status=live }}</ref> He again scored in a home win against [[Everton F.C.|Everton]] on 28 February 2010,<ref>{{cite news |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/8530339.stm |title=Tottenham 2–1 Everton |date=28 February 2010 |first=Phil |last=Dawkes |work=BBC Sport |access-date=20 January 2016 |archive-date=8 July 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180708105641/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/8530339.stm |url-status=live }}</ref> and in an away defeat against [[Burnley F.C.|Burnley]] on 9 May.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/8656546.stm |title=Burnley 4–2 Tottenham |date=9 May 2010 |first=Stuart |last=Roach |work=BBC Sport |access-date=20 January 2016 |archive-date=8 July 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180708105042/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/8656546.stm |url-status=live }}</ref> On 30 May 2010, Modrić signed a new six-year contract that ran until 2016. Upon signing, he said, "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 enquiries 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 to at Spurs."<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.tottenhamhotspur.com/news-archive-1/luka-signs-new-six-year-contract/|title=Luka signs new six-year contract|publisher=Tottenham Hotspur F.C.|access-date=11 July 2018|archive-date=12 July 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180712090613/https://www.tottenhamhotspur.com/news-archive-1/luka-signs-new-six-year-contract/|url-status=live}}</ref> |
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During the January 2009 transfer window, Tottenham re-signed strikers [[Jermain Defoe]] and [[Robbie Keane]], allowing Modrić to return to midfield while retaining his advanced attacking role as a roaming left-sided midfielder. Spurs' other major signing, tough-tackling [[Honduras|Honduran]] midfielder [[Wilson Palacios]], bolstered Spurs' central midfield and gave Modrić more freedom in attack, while Palacios operated as a more defensive midfielder. Using him in his former position from Dinamo Zagreb days made him even more effective with inspirational performances against [[Stoke City F.C.|Stoke City]],<ref>{{cite news| url=http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1130086/Tottenham-3-Stoke-1-Magical-Modric-sets-Spurs-vital-victory.html| title=Tottenham 3 Stoke 1: Magical Modric sets Spurs up for vital victory.| author=Neil Ashton| date=2009-01-28| publisher=Daily Mail Online| location=London| accessdate=2009-08-30}}</ref> [[Hull City A.F.C.|Hull City]],<ref>{{cite news| url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_prem/7885857.stm| title=Hull 1–2 Tottenham| author=Jamie Lillywhite|date=2009-02-23| publisher=BBC Sport| accessdate=2009-08-30}}</ref> and most notably on 21 March, when scored the single goal of the game with the match-winning performance against [[Chelsea F.C.|Chelsea]].<ref>{{cite news| url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/7937098.stm| title=Tottenham 1–0 Chelsea| author=Sam Lyon| date=2009-03-21| publisher=BBC Sport| accessdate=2009-08-30}}</ref> He scored his first Premier League goal against [[Newcastle United F.C.|Newcastle United]] in Spurs' away defeat on 21 December 2008, home win in the [[2008–09 FA Cup|third round]] of [[FA Cup]] against [[Wigan Athletic F.C.|Wigan]] on 2 January 2009, and in away defeat against [[Manchester United]] on 25 April 2009.<ref>{{cite news| url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_prem/7775574.stm| title=Newcastle 2–1 Tottenham| author=Saj Chowdhury| date=2008-12-21| publisher=BBC Sport| accessdate=2008-12-21}}</ref> Modrić scored his first Tottenham competitive goal in a 2–2 draw against [[FC Spartak Moscow|Spartak Moscow]] during the [[UEFA Europa League|UEFA Cup]] group stages on 18 December 2008.<ref>{{cite news| url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/europe/7775427.stm| title=Tottenham 2–2 Spartak Moscow| author=Ian Hughes| date=2008-12-18| publisher=BBC Sport| accessdate=2008-12-21}}</ref> |
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====2010–12: Final seasons in England==== |
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[[File:Luka Modrić 2010 2.jpg|right|thumb|upright=0.63|Modrić playing against Arsenal in November 2010]] |
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Ahead of the [[2009–10 Premier League|2009–10]] season, ex-Spurs [[captain (association football)|captain]] [[Jamie Redknapp]] said of Modrić, "[He's] a hell of a player and a manager’s dream, so I am told. 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. He could get into any team in the top four and he’ll be even better this season."<ref>{{cite news| url=http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1205422/Jamie-Redknapps-10-watch-The-players-light-Premier-League-season.html?ITO=1490| title=Jamie Redknapp's 10 to watch: The players who will light up the Premier League this season| author=Jamie Redknapp| date=2009-08-10| publisher=Daily Mail|accessdate=2009-08-30| location=London}}</ref> |
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On 11 September 2010, Modrić scored his first goal of the [[2010–11 Tottenham Hotspur F.C. season|2010–11 season]] in a 1–1 away draw at [[West Bromwich Albion F.C.|West Bromwich Albion]].<ref>{{cite news |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/8983436.stm |title=West Brom 1–1 Tottenham |date=11 September 2010 |first=Jamie |last=Lillywhite |work=BBC Sport |access-date=20 January 2016 |archive-date=21 June 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180621223653/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/8983436.stm |url-status=live }}</ref> On 28 November, in a home match against [[Liverpool F.C.|Liverpool]], Modrić scored a goal that was later credited as an [[own goal]] by [[Martin Škrtel]]. After a draw against Manchester United at [[White Hart Lane]] in January 2011, Redknapp praised Modrić, saying, "He was unbelievable. Magnificent. 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."<ref>{{cite web |url=http://espnfc.com/news/story/_/id/867140/harry-redknapp-praises-%27magnificent%27-luka-modric?cc=5739 |title=Redknapp praises 'magnificent' Modrić |date=17 January 2011 |publisher=ESPN |access-date=31 March 2013 |archive-date=25 December 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211225125828/https://www.espn.com/soccer/?cc=5739 |url-status=live }}</ref> Modrić also scored in Tottenham's 3–2 victory over Stoke City on 9 April,<ref>{{cite news |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/9448905.stm |title=Tottenham 3–2 Stoke |date=9 April 2011 |first=Phil |last=Dawkes |work=BBC Sport |access-date=20 January 2016 |archive-date=21 June 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180621223047/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/9448905.stm |url-status=live }}</ref> and converted a penalty at [[Anfield]] on 15 May in a 2–0 victory over Liverpool.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/9484323.stm |title=Liverpool 0–2 Tottenham |date=15 May 2011 |first=Mandeep |last=Sanghera |work=BBC Sport |access-date=20 January 2016 |archive-date=11 October 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181011171618/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/9484323.stm |url-status=live }}</ref> Modrić helped Tottenham reach their first involvement in the [[2010–11 UEFA Champions League|UEFA Champions League]]. In the first match, against [[Inter Milan]] at the [[San Siro]] on 20 October, he exited the match early due to injury; Spurs lost 4–3, despite the tremendous efforts of [[Gareth Bale]].<ref>{{cite news |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/europe/9102192.stm |title=Inter Milan 4–3 Tottenham |date=20 October 2010 |first=Saj |last=Chowdhury |work=BBC Sport |access-date=20 January 2016 |archive-date=18 June 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180618152840/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/europe/9102192.stm |url-status=live }}</ref> On the return match at home, on 2 November, Modrić was given too much space to move and dictate the tempo of the match. He created and assisted for the first goal by [[Rafael van der Vaart]] in a 3–1 victory.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/europe/9145936.stm |title=Tottenham 3–1 Inter Milan |first=Phil |last=McNulty |date=2 November 2010 |work=BBC Sport |access-date=14 August 2013 |archive-date=2 September 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130902013747/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/europe/9145936.stm |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.zonalmarking.net/2010/11/02/tottenham-3-1-inter-inter-fail-to-deal-with-bale/ |title=Tottenham 3–1 Inter: Inter fail to deal with Bale |date=2 November 2010 |publisher=Zonal Marking |access-date=14 August 2013 |archive-date=21 June 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180621221244/http://www.zonalmarking.net/2010/11/02/tottenham-3-1-inter-inter-fail-to-deal-with-bale/ |url-status=dead }}</ref> In the next match, against [[SV Werder Bremen|Werder Bremen]], Modrić scored the second goal.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/europe/9219545.stm |title=Tottenham 3–0 Werder Bremen |first=Phil |last=McNulty |date=24 November 2010 |work=BBC Sport |access-date=14 August 2013 |archive-date=19 June 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180619064156/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/europe/9219545.stm |url-status=live }}</ref> After a scoreless draw against [[A.C. Milan|Milan]],<ref>{{cite news |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/europe/9417468.stm |title=Tottenham 0–0 AC Milan (agg 1–0) |date=9 March 2011 |first=Phil |last=McNulty |work=BBC Sport |access-date=20 January 2016 |archive-date=21 June 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180621223104/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/europe/9417468.stm |url-status=live }}</ref> Spurs were eliminated from the competition in the quarter-finals by [[Real Madrid CF|Real Madrid]].<ref>{{cite news |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/europe/9454054.stm |title=Tottenham 0–1 Real Madrid (agg 0–5) |date=13 April 2011 |first=Phil |last=McNulty |work=BBC Sport |access-date=20 January 2016 |archive-date=21 June 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180621223729/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/europe/9454054.stm |url-status=live }}</ref> |
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On 29 August 2009, during Tottenham's 2–1 win over [[Birmingham City F.C.|Birmingham City]], Modrić was taken off injured with a suspected calf injury.<ref>{{cite news| url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_prem/8224017.stm| title=Tottenham 2–1 Birmingham| author=Sam Lyon| date=2009-08-29| publisher=BBC Sport| accessdate=2009-08-30}}</ref> |
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The following day, it was confirmed that Modrić had broken his leg, sustaining a fracture to his [[Fibula|right fibula]] and was expected to be out for six weeks.<ref>{{cite news| url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/t/tottenham_hotspur/8229223.stm| title=Spurs suffer Modric injury blow.| date=2009-08-30| publisher=BBC Sport| accessdate=2009-08-30}}</ref> On 31 October 2009, however, Spurs' manager Harry Redknapp announced a delay to Modrić's return.<ref>{{cite news| url=http://www.newsoftheworld.co.uk/sport/575886/LUKA-MODRICrsquoS-long-awaited-Tottenham-return-has-been-delayed-until-later-this-month.html| title=Luka Modric Comeback Snag}}</ref> Modrić finally returned to training after numerous delays on 8 December in a match against [[Grays Athletic F.C.|Grays Athletic]]. He made his first start in the Premier League for four months in the [[London derbies|London derby]] against [[West Ham United F.C.|West Ham United]], which Spurs won 2–0, with Modrić making a telling contribution by scoring with the leg he broke in the 11th minute. He again scored in home win against [[Everton F.C.|Everton]] on 28 February, and away defeat against [[Burnley F.C.|Burnley]] in the last season's game on 9 May 2010. |
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Modrić played 32 Premier League matches in the [[2010–11 Premier League|2010–11 season]], scoring three goals, recording two assists and making the highest average number of passes per match for Spurs with 62.5 and an accuracy rate of 87.4%.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.whoscored.com/Teams/30/Archive/England-Tottenham |title=Tottenham Squad Summary Premier League 2010/11 |publisher=WhoScored |access-date=15 September 2011 |archive-date=26 September 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110926125153/http://www.whoscored.com/Teams/30/Archive/England-Tottenham |url-status=live }}</ref> At the end of the season, Modrić was voted the [[Tottenham Hotspur F.C.#Player of the Year|Tottenham Hotspur Player of the Year]]. Then-Manchester United manager [[Alex Ferguson|Sir Alex Ferguson]] said he would have chosen Modrić as his [[PFA Players' Player of the Year|Player of the Year]] for that season.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.manutd.com/en/News-And-Features/What-The-Papers-Say/2011/Apr/Papers-Modric-is-fergusons-top-man.aspx |title=Papers: Top man Modric |date=29 April 2011 |publisher=Manchester United F.C. |access-date=7 December 2011 |archive-date=4 September 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110904050504/http://www.manutd.com/en/News-And-Features/What-The-Papers-Say/2011/Apr/Papers-Modric-is-fergusons-top-man.aspx |url-status=live }}</ref> |
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On 30 May 2010, Modrić was awarded with a new six-year contract that runs until 2016. Modrić said after the deal, "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 enquiries 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 to at Spurs".<ref>{{cite news| url=http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1282643/Luka-Modric-snubs-Chelsea-Manchester-United-sign-year-Tottenham-Hotspur-deal.html| title=Luka Modric snubs Chelsea and Manchester United to clinch new six-year deal at Tottenham| date=2010-05-30| publisher=Associated Newspapers| work=dailymail.co.uk| accessdate=2013-08-14}}</ref> |
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{{quote box|width=40%|align=left|quote="I spent four great years there with a lot of emotions, with a lot of love from the club and the fans. I enjoyed every moment with Tottenham. But in one moment you feel you need to take a step forward, to go to a higher level. I think it was the right time for me to go, but I will always be thankful to Tottenham for everything they did for me. I became a better player there and they pushed me to this level where I am at the moment." |source=—Luka Modrić reflecting on the negotiations with Chelsea and the move to Real Madrid in February 2014.<ref name="BBC Interview2014"/>}} |
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====2010–11 season==== |
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In mid-2011, Modrić was heavily pursued by Tottenham's [[Chelsea F.C.–Tottenham Hotspur F.C. rivalry|London rivals]] Chelsea, who made a first bid of £22 million, which they increased to £27 million, both of which were rejected by Spurs chairman Daniel Levy.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2011/jun/17/luka-modric-tottenham-chelsea |title=Luka Modric reveals he wants to leave Tottenham for Chelsea |date=18 June 2011 |first=Jamie |last=Jackson |work=The Guardian |access-date=20 January 2016 |archive-date=5 July 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180705175527/https://www.theguardian.com/football/2011/jun/17/luka-modric-tottenham-chelsea |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/14523936 |title=Chelsea cautious over Luka Modric deal |date=14 August 2011 |work=BBC Sport |access-date=20 January 2016 |archive-date=28 January 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140128113439/http://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/14523936 |url-status=live }}</ref> After the failed bids, Modrić announced he would welcome a move across London and that he had a "gentleman's agreement" with Levy the club would entertain offers from a "big club".<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2011/jul/10/luka-modric-tottenham-hotspur-chelsea |title=Luka Modric accuses Tottenham Hotspur of playing dirty in transfer row |date=10 July 2011 |first=Stuart |last=James |work=The Guardian |access-date=20 January 2016 |archive-date=5 July 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180705204048/https://www.theguardian.com/football/2011/jul/10/luka-modric-tottenham-hotspur-chelsea |url-status=live }}</ref> Speculation continued throughout the summer transfer window, culminating in Modrić refusing to play in Tottenham's opening match of the [[2011–12 Tottenham Hotspur F.C. season|2011–12 season]] against Manchester United, which ended in a 3–0 loss.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/14539056 |title=Man Utd 3–0 Tottenham |date=22 August 2011 |first=Phil |last=McNulty |work=BBC Sport |access-date=20 January 2016 |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030214037/https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/14539056 |url-status=live }}</ref> Modrić said his "head was not in the right place" as he continued to force a move to Chelsea.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/14610773 |title=Luka Modric's 'head is not right' to face Man Utd says Harry Redknapp |date=21 August 2011 |work=BBC Sport |access-date=20 January 2016 |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030214038/https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/14610773 |url-status=live }}</ref> On the final day of the transfer window, Chelsea made an offer of £40 million that was again rejected.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/transfers/tottenham-reject-40m-luka-modric-bid-from-chelsea-2347128.html |title=Tottenham reject £40m Luka Modric bid from Chelsea |work=The Independent |access-date=16 August 2012 |date=31 August 2011 |archive-date=5 July 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180705184150/https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/transfers/tottenham-reject-40m-luka-modric-bid-from-chelsea-2347128.html |url-status=live }}</ref> |
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[[File:Luka Modrić 2010 2.jpg|thumb|140px|Modrić playing for Tottenham in 2010.]] |
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On 11 September 2010, Modrić scored his first goal of the [[2010–11 Premier League|2010–11 season]] with a 27th minute strike which put Tottenham 1–0 up away at {{fc|West Bromwich Albion}}. The match finished in a 1–1 draw after [[Chris Brunt]] equalised. During the match, Modrić sustained an injury which was feared to be a repeat of the broken leg injury he sustained in the 2009–10 season. Scans later revealed there to be no damage, however. On 28 November, in a home match against [[Liverpool F.C.|Liverpool]], Modrić scored a solitary goal, but it was later credited as an own-goal goal by Liverpool defender. After the draw against [[Manchester United F.C.|Manchester United]] at [[White Hart Lane]] in January 2011, the manager of Tottenham, [[Harry Redknapp]], praised him, noting he is a special player: "He was unbelievable. Magnificent. 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."<ref>{{cite web| url=http://espnfc.com/news/story/_/id/867140/harry-redknapp-praises-'magnificent'-luka-modric?cc=5739| title=Redknapp praises 'magnificent' Modric| date=2011-01-17| publisher=ESPN Internet Ventures| work=espnfc.com| accessdate=2013-03-31}}</ref><ref>{{cite web| url=http://www.crunchsports.com/category/Soccer/Chelsea-FC-target-Luka-Modric-praised-by-Tottenham-Hotspur-FC-boss-201107240016/| title=Chelsea FC target Luka Modric praised by Tottenham Hotspur FC boss| date=2011-07-24| publisher=Crunchsports| accessdate=2013-03-31}}</ref><ref>{{cite web| url=http://www.tribalfootball.com/articles/redknapp-full-praise-tottenham-s-modric-1521181#.UVeZhRf8KrM| title=Redknapp full of praise for Tottenham's Modric| date=2011-03-21| publisher=tribalfootball.com| accessdate=2013-03-31}}</ref> He also scored in Tottenham's 3–2 victory over [[Stoke City F.C.|Stoke City]] on 9 April 2011, as well as converting a penalty at [[Anfield]] on 15 May 2011 to complete a 2–0 victory over Liverpool. In the [[2010–11 Tottenham Hotspur F.C. season|Champions League]], Modrić participated and helped the club reach its first involment with the competition. On the first game with [[F.C. Internazionale Milano|Inter Milan]] at [[San Siro]] on 20 October 2010, came early out of the game because of injury and they lost 4–3, thanks the tremendous effort of [[Gareth Bale]]. On return match at home, on 2 November, as was given to much space to move and dictate the tempo of the game, he created and assisted for the first goal to [[Rafael van der Vaart|van der Vaart]] in 3–1 victory.<ref>{{cite web| url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/europe/9145936.stm| title=Tottenham 3–1 Inter Milan| author=Phil McNulty| date=2010-11-02| publisher=BBC Sport| accessdate=2013-08-14}}</ref><ref>{{cite web| url=http://www.zonalmarking.net/2010/11/02/tottenham-3-1-inter-inter-fail-to-deal-with-bale/| title=Tottenham 3–1 Inter: Inter fail to deal with Bale| date=2010-11-02| publisher=Zonal Marking| accessdate=2013-08-14}}</ref> In the consecutive game with [[SV Werder Bremen|Werder Bremen]], he scored the second goal after with his left foot calmed the ball received by Crouch, with false shoot deceived defender, and with his right foot hit the undefended part of the goal.<ref>{{cite web| url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/europe/9219545.stm| title=Tottenham 3–0 Werder Bremen| author=Phil McNulty| date=2010-11-24| publisher=BBC Sport| accessdate=2013-08-14}}</ref> Eventually, after [[A.C. Milan]], they were stopped in the quarter finals by [[Real Madrid]]. |
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After failing to secure a transfer, Spurs manager Harry Redknapp told Modrić to focus on his playing and named him as a starter.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/harry-redknapp-urges-luka-modric-to-focus-on-tottenham-2347570.html |title=Harry Redknapp urges Luka Modric to focus on Tottenham |date=1 September 2011 |first=Paul |last=Hirst |work=The Independent |access-date=20 January 2016 |archive-date=8 July 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180708143848/https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/harry-redknapp-urges-luka-modric-to-focus-on-tottenham-2347570.html |url-status=live }}</ref> On 18 September, he scored his first goal of the season for Tottenham with a shot from {{Convert|25|yards|metres|abbr=on}} in a 4–0 home win against Liverpool.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/14869938 |title=Tottenham 4–0 Liverpool |date=18 September 2011 |first=Kerry |last=Wilkinson |work=BBC Sport |access-date=14 April 2013 |archive-date=25 October 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141025173525/http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/14869938 |url-status=live }}</ref> On 14 January 2012, Modrić scored the only goal in a home draw with [[Wolverhampton Wanderers F.C.|Wolverhampton Wanderers]].<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/16453483 |title=Tottenham missed the chance to go level on points with the Premier League leaders as they were held by Wolves |date=14 January 2012 |first=Kevin |last=Darling |work=BBC Sport |access-date=14 August 2013 |archive-date=16 November 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121116025728/http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/16453483 |url-status=live }}</ref> On 31 January in a 3–1 win against Wigan Athletic, he assisted for the first goal with a crossfield pass and scored the second from {{Convert|20|yards|metres|abbr=on}}.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/16695945 |title=Tottenham 3–1 Wigan |date=31 January 2012 |first=Jamie |last=Lillywhite |work=BBC Sport |access-date=14 April 2013 |archive-date=15 April 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130415150318/http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/16695945 |url-status=live }}</ref> For the third time that season, he was included in "Team of the Week".<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.premierleague.com/en-gb/players/ea-sports-ppi-team-of-the-week.html |title=EA Sports PPI Team of the Week |publisher=Premier League |access-date=14 April 2013 |archive-date=20 June 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160620120948/http://www.premierleague.com/en-gb/players/ea-sports-ppi-team-of-the-week.html |url-status=dead }}</ref> Modrić scored his last goal for Tottenham on 2 May in a 1–4 away win against [[Bolton Wanderers F.C.|Bolton Wanderers]] with a powerful volley from {{Convert|25|yards|metres|abbr=on}}.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/17836014 |title=Bolton 1–4 Tottenham |date=2 May 2012 |first=Alistair |last=Magowan |work=BBC Sport |access-date=14 April 2013 |archive-date=17 October 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131017104908/http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/17836014 |url-status=live }}</ref> |
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Modrić played 32 Premier League games in the 2010–11 season, scoring three goals and recording two assists, as well as making the highest average number of passes per game for Spurs, with 62.5, at an accuracy rate of 87.4%.<ref>{{cite web| url=http://www.whoscored.com/Teams/30/Archive/England-Tottenham| title=Tottenham Squad Summary Premier League 2010/11| publisher=WhoScored.com}}</ref> At the end of the season, Modrić was voted the ''[[Tottenham Hotspur F.C.#Club player of the year|Tottenham Hotspur F.C. Player of the Year]]''. The manager of Manchester United, [[Alex Ferguson]], revealed he would have chosen Modrić as his ''Player of the Year'' for that season.<ref>{{cite web| url=http://www.manutd.com/en/News-And-Features/What-The-Papers-Say/2011/Apr/Papers-Modric-is-fergusons-top-man.aspx| title=Papers: Top man Modric| date=2011-04-29| publisher=manutd.com| accessdate=2012-12-07}}</ref> |
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====2011–12 season==== |
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In the summer of 2011, Modrić was heavily pursued by cross-town rivals [[Chelsea F.C.|Chelsea]]. Chelsea initially made a bid of £22 million followed by a bid of £27 million, both of which were rejected. Tottenham President [[Daniel Levy (businessman)|Daniel Levy]] stated that Tottenham would not sell Modrić at any price. After the failed bids, Modrić announced that he would welcome a move across London and that he had a "gentleman's agreement" with Daniel Levy that the club would entertain offers from a "big club." Speculation continued throughout the summer transfer window, eventually culminating in Modrić refusing to play in Tottenham's opening match against [[Manchester United F.C.|Manchester United]], a 3–0 loss, stating that his "head was not in the right place" as he continued to force a move to Chelsea. On the final day of the transfer deadline, Chelsea made an offer of £40 million,<ref>{{cite news| url=http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/transfers/tottenham-reject-40m-luka-modric-bid-from-chelsea-2347128.html| title=Tottenham reject £40m Luka Modric bid from Chelsea| publisher=The Independent Online| accessdate=2012-08-16}}</ref> which was again rejected by Daniel Levy. After failing to secure a transfer, team manager [[Harry Redknapp]] told Luka Modrić to focus on his playing and named him as a starter. On 18 September, he scored his first goal of the season for Tottenham with a wonder shot from 25 yards in a 4–0 home win against [[Liverpool F.C.|Liverpool]].<ref>{{cite web| url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/14869938| title=Tottenham 4 – 0 Liverpool| date=2011-09-18| author=Kerry Wilkinson| publisher=BBC| accessdate=2013-04-14}}</ref> On 14 January 2012, scored the only goal in a home draw with [[Wolverhampton Wanderers F.C.|Wolverhampton]].<ref>{{cite web| url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/16453483| title=Tottenham missed the chance to go level on points with the Premier League leaders as they were held by Wolves| date=2012-01-14| author=Kevin Darling| publisher=BBC Sports| accessdate=2013-08-14}}</ref> On 31 January, Modrić with a crossfield pass assisted for the first goal, and scored the second from 20 yards in a 3–1 win against [[Wigan]],<ref>{{cite web| url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/16695945| title=Tottenham 3 – 1 Wigan| date=2012-01-31| author=Jamie Lillywhite| publisher=BBC| accessdate=2013-04-14}}</ref> to be for the third time included in "Team of the Week" in the season.<ref>{{cite web| url=http://www.premierleague.com/en-gb/players/ea-sports-ppi-team-of-the-week.html| title=EA Sports PPI Team of the Week| publisher=Premier League| accessdate=2013-04-14}}</ref> Luka Modrić scored his last goal for Tottenham on 2 May, in a 1–4 away win against [[Bolton Wanderers F.C.|Bolton]], when from 25 yards with a powerful volley smacked the ball into the top corner.<ref>{{cite web| url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/17836014| title=Bolton 1 – 4 Tottenham| date=2012-05-02| author=Alistair Magowan| publisher=BBC| accessdate=2013-04-14}}</ref> |
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===Real Madrid=== |
===Real Madrid=== |
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====2012–13 |
====2012–13: Becoming a starting eleven player in Real Madrid==== |
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[[File:Luka Modrić against Sevilla.jpg|thumb| |
[[File:Luka Modrić against Sevilla.jpg|right|thumb|upright|Modrić playing against [[Sevilla FC|Sevilla]] in February 2013]] |
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On 27 August 2012, [[Real Madrid C.F.|Real Madrid]] announced that they had agreed a deal with Tottenham for a fee in the region of £33 million. Modrić signed a five-year contract with the Spanish club.<ref>{{cite news| url=http://www.realmadrid.com/cs/Satellite/es/Actualidad_Primer_Equipo/1330114707769/noticia/Noticia/Luka_Modric_firma_su_contrato_con_el_Real_Madrid.htm| title=Luka Modric firma su contrato con el Real Madrid| date=2012-08-27| publisher=Real Madrid official website| accessdate=2012-08-27| language=Spanish}}</ref><ref>{{cite news| url=http://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/news/newsid=1851265.html| title=Modrić completes move to Madrid| date=2012-08-27| publisher=UEFA.com| accessdate=2012-08-27}}</ref><ref>{{cite news| url=http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-2194029/Luka-Modric-signs-Real-Madrid-Tottenham.html| title=Modric finally completes £33m move to Madrid as Tottenham agree 'partnership' with Spanish giants| date=2012-08-27| publisher=Mail Online| accessdate=2012-08-27}}</ref> Two days later, he made his Real Madrid debut against [[FC Barcelona]] in the second leg final of the [[2012 Supercopa de España]] at the [[Santiago Bernabéu Stadium|Estadio Santiago Bernabéu]], replacing [[Mesut Özil]] in the 83rd minute. Madrid eventually won the game, giving Modrić his first trophy with the club just 36 hours after his signing was announced.<ref>{{cite news| url=http://www.realmadrid.com/cs/Satellite/en/Actualidad_Primer_Equipo_en/1330116229721/noticia/Cronica/2-1:_Real_Madrid_wins_its_ninth_Supercup.htm| title=2–1: Real Madrid wins its ninth Supercup| publisher=Real Madrid official website| accessdate=2012-08-30}}</ref> Despite his positive debut, Modrić initially struggled to settle into the team under manager [[José Mourinho]] due to his lack of pre-season training which he missed as a result of his ongoing transfer negotiations. The presence of veteran midfielder, [[Xabi Alonso]], usually kept him out of the starting lineup, limiting him to substitute appearances and mostly playing out of position for the first few months at the club. He played his first [[UEFA Champions League]] game for Real Madrid in a group match against [[Manchester City F.C.|Manchester City]] on 18 September, which Madrid won 3–2. On 3 November, Modrić scored his first goal for Real Madrid in the last minute of their 4–0 victory over [[Real Zaragoza]] in [[2012–13 La Liga|La Liga]].<ref>{{cite news| url=http://www.realmadrid.com/cs/Satellite/en/Actualidad_Primer_Equipo_en/1193041476158/1330126816635/noticia/Noticia/Modric:__Every_match_I_feel_better._I_give_my_all_in_whatever_position_the_coach_puts_me_.htm| title=Modric: "Every match I feel better. I give my all in whatever position the coach puts me"| date=2012-11-03| publisher=Real Madrid official website| accessdate=2013-02-17}}</ref> On November 17, Modrić assisted a [[Karim Benzema]] goal (which was eventually considered an [[own goal]] by Jon Aurtenetxe Borde) with a 50 meter cross-field pass. It was the first goal in a 5–1 victory over [[Athletic Bilbao]].<ref>{{cite web| url=http://www.vecernji.hr/sport/vijesti/video-modric-briljantno-asistirao-benzemi-udaljenosti-50-m-clanak-476597| title=Modrić briljantno asistirao Benzemi s udaljenosti od 50 m!| date=2012-11-17| publisher=Vecernji.hr| accessdate=2013-05-14}}</ref> His most notable game that year was on December 4, when with corssfield passes he assisted for the first two goals of [[Cristiano Ronaldo]] and [[José Callejón]] in a 4–1 victory over [[AFC Ajax|Ajax]] in the group stage of the [[2012–13 UEFA Champions League|Champions League]].<ref>{{cite web| url=http://www.marca.com/eventos/marcador/futbol/2012_13/champions/1a_fase/jornada_6/grupo_d/rma_aja/| title=Real Madrid-Ajax: resumen, goles y resultado| date=2012-12-04| publisher=marca.com| accessdate=2013-05-14}}</ref><ref>{{cite web| url=http://www.marca.com/2012/12/05/futbol/equipos/real_madrid/1354669618.html| title=Modric ya tiene galones| date=2012-12-05| author=Rubén Jiméenez| publisher=marca.com| accessdate=2013-05-14}}</ref><ref>{{cite web| url=http://www.goal.com/en-us/match/91837/real-madrid-vs-ajax/report?ICID=OP| title=Real Madrid vs Ajax Report| date=2012-12-05| author=Stefan Coerts| publisher=goal.com| accessdate=2013-05-14}}</ref><ref>{{cite web| url=http://www.whoscored.com/Matches/667810/Live| title=Real Madrid-Ajax Live| date=2012-12-05| publisher=whoscored.com| accessdate=2013-05-14}}</ref> |
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On 27 August 2012, Real Madrid announced they had agreed on a deal with Tottenham for an approximate £30 million transfer fee.<ref name=BBCRM/> Modrić signed a five-year contract with the Spanish club.<ref name=BBCRM>{{cite news |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/19389191 |title=Luka Modric: Real Madrid sign midfielder from Tottenham |date=27 August 2012 |work=BBC Sport |access-date=27 August 2012 |archive-date=27 August 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120827180035/http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/19389191 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/news/newsid=1851265.html |title=Modrić completes move to Madrid |date=27 August 2012 |work=UEFA |access-date=27 August 2012 |archive-date=9 July 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180709232354/https://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/news/newsid=1851265.html |url-status=live }}</ref> Two days later, he made his Real Madrid debut against Barcelona in the second leg final of the [[2012 Supercopa de España]] at the [[Santiago Bernabéu Stadium]], replacing [[Mesut Özil]] in the 83rd minute. Madrid won the match, giving Modrić his first trophy with the club 36 hours after his signing was announced.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.insidespanishfootball.com/19001/modric-delighted-with-first-madrid-title/ |title=Modric delighted with first Madrid title |publisher=insidespanishfootball.com |access-date=30 August 2012 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141227035226/http://www.insidespanishfootball.com/19001/modric-delighted-with-first-madrid-title/ |archive-date=27 December 2014 }}</ref> Despite his positive debut, Modrić at first struggled to settle into the team under manager [[José Mourinho]] because of his lack of pre-season training, which he missed as a result of his ongoing transfer negotiations.<ref name="BBC Interview2014"/> The presence of veteran midfielders [[Xabi Alonso]] and [[Sami Khedira]] in defensive midfield, and Özil in offensive midfield, usually kept Modrić out of the starting line-up, limiting him to substitute appearances. He mostly played out-of-position for his first few months at the club. He played his first [[2012–13 UEFA Champions League|UEFA Champions League]] match for Real Madrid in the group stage against [[Manchester City F.C.|Manchester City]] on 18 September, which Madrid won 3–2. On 3 November, Modrić scored his first goal for Real Madrid in the last minute of their 4–0 victory over [[Real Zaragoza]] in [[2012–13 La Liga|La Liga]].<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.tribalfootball.com/articles/modric-thrilled-score-first-real-madrid-goal-3618081 |title=Modric thrilled to score first Real Madrid goal |date=3 November 2012 |publisher=tribalfootball.com |access-date=17 February 2013 |archive-date=22 October 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201022012732/https://www.tribalfootball.com/articles/modric-thrilled-score-first-real-madrid-goal-3618081 |url-status=live }}</ref> His most notable match that year was on 4 December, when he assisted for the first two goals of [[Cristiano Ronaldo]] and [[José Callejón]] with cross-field passes in a 4–1 victory over Ajax in the group stage of the Champions League.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.marca.com/eventos/marcador/futbol/2012_13/champions/1a_fase/jornada_6/grupo_d/rma_aja/ |title=Real Madrid-Ajax: resumen, goles y resultado |date=4 December 2012 |work=Marca |location=Spain |access-date=14 May 2013 |archive-date=20 May 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130520024901/http://www.marca.com/eventos/marcador/futbol/2012_13/champions/1a_fase/jornada_6/grupo_d/rma_aja/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.marca.com/2012/12/05/futbol/equipos/real_madrid/1354669618.html |title=Modric ya tiene galones |date=5 December 2012 |first=Rubén |last=Jiméenez |work=Marca |location=Spain |access-date=14 May 2013 |language=es |archive-date=3 May 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130503163504/http://www.marca.com/2012/12/05/futbol/equipos/real_madrid/1354669618.html |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.whoscored.com/Matches/667810/Live |title=Real Madrid-Ajax Live |date=5 December 2012 |publisher=WhoScored |access-date=14 May 2013 |archive-date=7 December 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121207083822/http://www.whoscored.com/Matches/667810/Live |url-status=live }}</ref> At the end of the year he was voted as the worst signing of the season by Spanish newspaper ''[[Marca (newspaper)|Marca]]''.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.independent.ie/sport/soccer/world-cup-2018/modric-set-to-receive-the-recognition-he-deserves-37067539.html |title=Modric set to receive the recognition he deserves |date=1 July 2018 |author=Sachin Nakrani |work=[[Irish Independent]] |access-date=4 December 2018 |archive-date=4 December 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181204103516/https://www.independent.ie/sport/soccer/world-cup-2018/modric-set-to-receive-the-recognition-he-deserves-37067539.html |url-status=live }}</ref> |
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Modrić started in Real Madrid's home match against rivals Barcelona on 2 March 2013. From a corner kick, he assisted [[Sergio Ramos]] to score the winning goal in the 82nd minute, giving Real a victory in ''[[El Clásico]]''. On 5 March, Modrić came on as a second-half substitute during the decisive Champions League knockout leg against ten-man Manchester United at [[Old Trafford]]. With Madrid behind by a goal, Modrić equalised with a long-range shot from {{Convert|25|yards|metres|abbr=on}} out and played a key role in the rest of the match, which Real Madrid won 2–1, advancing them to the quarter-finals 3–2 on aggregate.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.fifa.com/worldfootball/clubfootball/news/newsid=2025338.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130309013211/http://www.fifa.com/worldfootball/clubfootball/news/newsid=2025338.html |url-status=dead |archive-date=9 March 2013 |title=Mourinho: Modric made the difference |date=6 March 2013 |publisher=FIFA |access-date=18 March 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/competitions/champions-league/9910683/Manchester-United-v-Real-Madrid-five-things-we-learnt-from-the-Champions-League-tie-at-Old-Trafford.html |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20220111/https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/competitions/champions-league/9910683/Manchester-United-v-Real-Madrid-five-things-we-learnt-from-the-Champions-League-tie-at-Old-Trafford.html |archive-date=11 January 2022 |url-access=subscription |url-status=live |title=Manchester United v Real Madrid: five things we learnt from the Champions League tie at Old Trafford |last=Burt |first=Jason |date=5 March 2013 |work=The Daily Telegraph |access-date=18 March 2013}}{{cbignore}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.marca.com/2013/03/05/futbol/manchester-madrid/1362520335.html |title=Luka Modric ya no tiene precio |date=6 March 2013 |author=J. I. García-Ochoa |work=Marca |location=Spain |access-date=14 May 2013 |archive-date=4 May 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130504064251/http://www.marca.com/2013/03/05/futbol/manchester-madrid/1362520335.html? |url-status=live }}</ref> This match is often seen as the turning point in Modrić's career in Real Madrid.<ref name="BBC Interview2014"/> On 16 March, he replicated this performance against [[RCD Mallorca|Mallorca]], giving Real Madrid the lead with a long-range volley from {{Convert|30|yards|metres|abbr=on}}; Real Madrid won the match 5–2.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2013/mar/17/real-madrid-real-mallorca-la-liga |title=Real Madrid recover against Real Mallorca with Luka Modric screamer |date=17 March 2013 |work=The Guardian |access-date=18 March 2013 |archive-date=5 December 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201205025619/https://www.theguardian.com/football/2013/mar/17/real-madrid-real-mallorca-la-liga |url-status=live }}</ref> Modrić played as a starter in both Champions League semi-final matches against [[Borussia Dortmund]]. In the first leg on 24 April, he played in the attacking midfield position where he did not influence the match and the team lost 4–1. On 30 April, in the second leg 2–0 victory, Modrić played as the deep-lying playmaker, making passes to the attackers and creating several chances; he was among the best-rated players that night.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2013/apr/30/real-madrid-dortmund-tactical-analysis |title=How Mourinho's subs helped Real score two and almost scrape through |last=Cox |first=Michael |date=1 May 2013 |work=The Guardian |access-date=14 May 2013 |archive-date=30 September 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130930145029/http://www.theguardian.com/football/2013/apr/30/real-madrid-dortmund-tactical-analysis |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.marca.com/debate/2013/04/3458/pinta-votaciones3458.html |title=El uno a uno del Real Madrid |date=1 May 2013 |work=Marca |location=Spain |access-date=14 May 2013 |archive-date=3 May 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130503025558/http://www.marca.com/debate/2013/04/3458/pinta-votaciones3458.html |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.whoscored.com/Matches/709898/Live/Europe-UEFA-Champions-League-2012-2013-Real-Madrid-Borussia-Dortmund |title=Real Madrid-Borussia Dortmund Live |date=1 May 2013 |publisher=WhoScored |access-date=14 May 2013 |archive-date=3 May 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130503023453/http://www.whoscored.com/Matches/709898/Live/Europe-UEFA-Champions-League-2012-2013-Real-Madrid-Borussia-Dortmund |url-status=live }}</ref> From March 2013, Modrić's form and influence in the midfield continued to improve, distinguishing himself as a player with most passes completed in his team. On 8 May, he assisted from the corner for the first goal and scored the fourth goal in a 6–2 victory over [[Málaga CF|Málaga]].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.realmadrid.com/cs/Satellite/en/Actualidad_Primer_Equipo_en/1330147212128/noticia/Noticia/Real_Madrid_surpassed_5,500_goals_in_La_Liga_against_Malaga.htm |title=Real Madrid surpassed 5,500 goals in La Liga against Malaga |last=Jabalquinto |first=Diego |date=9 May 2013 |publisher=Real Madrid CF |access-date=14 May 2013 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130607023502/http://www.realmadrid.com/cs/Satellite/en/Actualidad_Primer_Equipo_en/1330147212128/noticia/Noticia/Real_Madrid_surpassed_5,500_goals_in_La_Liga_against_Malaga.htm |archive-date=7 June 2013}}</ref> |
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====2013–15: Best midfielder in Spain and ''La Décima''==== |
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{{quote box|width=40%|align=left|quote="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, with [[Cristiano Ronaldo|[Cristiano] Ronaldo]]." |source=—[[Predrag Mijatović]] praises Modrić's rising performance and significance for the team in January 2014.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.football-espana.net/39690/modric-%E2%80%98-important-ronaldo%E2%80%99 |title=Modric 'as important as Ronaldo' |date=30 January 2014 |publisher=Football-Espana |access-date=20 January 2016 |archive-date=2 May 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140502050350/http://www.football-espana.net/39690/modric-%E2%80%98-important-ronaldo%E2%80%99 |url-status=live }}</ref>}} |
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With the arrival of new manager [[Carlo Ancelotti]], Modrić became one of the most frequent starters in the team, being partnered in midfield with Xabi Alonso to provide a balance of defence and attack.<ref name="WhoScored2013">{{cite web |url=http://www.whoscored.com/News/eohrzvy9ge-h-tjvqjdrbg/Show/Player-Focus-How-Luka-Modric-Won-Over-The-Real-Madrid-Fans |title=Player Focus: How Luka Modrić Won Over The Real Madrid Fans |last=McAleer |first=Ben |date=24 September 2013 |website=WhoScored |access-date=20 January 2016 |archive-date=16 October 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151016210010/http://www.whoscored.com/News/eohrzvy9ge-h-tjvqjdrbg/Show/Player-Focus-How-Luka-Modric-Won-Over-The-Real-Madrid-Fans |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.marca.com/2013/12/12/en/football/real_madrid/1386840555.html |title=Modric is Carlo's fifth most used player |last=Cerezo |first=H. |date=12 December 2013 |work=Marca |location=Spain |access-date=21 December 2013 |archive-date=22 December 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131222003151/http://www.marca.com/2013/12/12/en/football/real_madrid/1386840555.html |url-status=live }}</ref> He was consistently the team's most efficient passer, averaging 90% accuracy in [[2013–14 La Liga|La Liga]], and also having the most ball recoveries among the squad.<ref name="BBC Interview2014"/><ref name="Ice Cold"/><ref name="WhoScored2013"/> He scored his first goal of the [[2013–14 Real Madrid CF season|2013–14 season]] in the last [[2013–14 UEFA Champions League|Champions League]] group match against [[F.C. Copenhagen|Copenhagen]], making it his fifth goal for the club, all five of which were scored from the outside the penalty area.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.marca.com/2013/12/11/en/football/real_madrid/1386751516.html |title=Modric: Shades of Old Trafford |date=11 December 2013 |work=Marca |location=Spain |access-date=21 December 2013 |archive-date=21 April 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210421212219/https://www.marca.com/2013/12/11/en/football/real_madrid/1386751516.html |url-status=live }}</ref> Modrić scored his first goal of the Liga season in a 3–0 away win against [[Getafe CF|Getafe]], his sixth goal outside the penalty area.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.marca.com/2014/02/16/en/football/real_madrid/1392565819.html |title=Real keep firing against Getafe |date=16 February 2014 |work=Marca |location=Spain |access-date=17 February 2014 |archive-date=22 February 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140222004735/http://www.marca.com/2014/02/16/en/football/real_madrid/1392565819.html |url-status=live }}</ref> Modrić was on the pitch when Real Madrid won the [[2013–14 Copa del Rey]] after defeating Barcelona 2–1 in the [[2014 Copa del Rey Final|final]].<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2731305-10-games-which-proved-why-luka-modric-is-the-midfield-maestro|title=10 Games That Proved Why Luka Modric Is the Midfield Maestro|last=Matchett|first=Karl|work=Bleacher Report|access-date=11 July 2018|archive-date=8 July 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180708015511/http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2731305-10-games-which-proved-why-luka-modric-is-the-midfield-maestro|url-status=live}}</ref> |
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In the first leg of the Champions League quarter-finals, Modrić intercepted the ball and assisted Cristiano Ronaldo for the third goal in Real Madrid's 3–0 home victory against Borussia Dortmund. The goal was ultimately decisive because Real went on to lose 2–0 in the second leg, but progressed with a marginal aggregate score of 3–2. In his 100th appearance for the club,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.tribalfootball.com/articles/tottenham-ace-modric-happy-mark-100-games-amazing-win-2130531 |title=Tottenham ace Modric happy to mark 100 games with "amazing" win |date=29 April 2014 |work=tribalfootball.com |access-date=29 April 2014 |archive-date=27 December 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141227030528/http://www.tribalfootball.com/articles/tottenham-ace-modric-happy-mark-100-games-amazing-win-2130531 |url-status=live }}</ref> Modrić assisted for the first goal in the second leg 4–0 victory over [[FC Bayern Munich|Bayern Munich]] in the Champions League semi-final, helping Real Madrid reach the final for the first time in 12 years.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/27193338 |title=Bayern Munich 0–4 Real Madrid |date=29 April 2014 |work=BBC Sport |access-date=29 April 2014 |archive-date=9 January 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160109001807/http://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/27193338 |url-status=live }}</ref> He was included in UEFA's Team of the Week for both legs of the semi-final.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://en.uclratings.uefa.com/Player/TeamOfWeek/11 |title=Team of the week – Matchday 11 |work=UEFA |access-date=2 May 2014 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140427104033/http://en.uclratings.uefa.com/Player/TeamOfWeek/11 |archive-date=27 April 2014 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://en.uclratings.uefa.com/Player/TeamOfWeek/12 |title=Team of the week – Matchday 12 |work=UEFA |access-date=2 May 2014 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140502051410/http://en.uclratings.uefa.com/Player/TeamOfWeek/12 |archive-date=2 May 2014 }}</ref> On 24 May in the [[2014 UEFA Champions League Final|final]], Modrić again assisted from a corner for teammate Sergio Ramos, who scored a 93rd-minute equaliser against [[Madrid Derby|local rivals]] [[Atlético Madrid]]. Real won 4–1 in extra time, marking the club's tenth Champions League title, locally known as ''La Décima'' ({{literally|the Tenth}}).<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/season=2014/matches/live/index.html?day=13&session=1&match=2011883 |title=Real Madrid 4–1 Atletico Madrid |work=UEFA |access-date=24 May 2014 |archive-date=25 May 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140525201212/http://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/season=2014/matches/live/index.html?day=13&session=1&match=2011883 |url-status=live }}</ref> He was included in the UEFA Champions League Team of the Season<ref name="CLTeam20134">{{cite web |url=http://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/news/newsid=2111959.html |title=UEFA Champions League squad of the season |date=2 June 2014 |work=UEFA |access-date=2 June 2014 |archive-date=29 November 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191129005527/https://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/news/newsid=2111959.html |url-status=live }}</ref> and received the [[LFP Awards|LFP award]] for the "Best Midfielder" of the Spanish first division for that season.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.lfp.es/en/news/luka-modric-best-midfielder-in-the-2013-14-liga-bbva |title=Luka Modrić, 'Best Midfielder in the 2013–14 Liga BBVA' |date=27 December 2014 |publisher=[[Liga de Fútbol Profesional]] |access-date=31 October 2014 |archive-date=10 May 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150510024626/http://www.lfp.es/en/news/luka-modric-best-midfielder-in-the-2013-14-liga-bbva |url-status=live }}</ref> |
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In August 2014, Modrić signed a new contract to stay at Real Madrid until 2018.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/28866670|title=Luka Modric signs Real Madrid deal until 2018|date=20 August 2014|work=BBC Sport|access-date=27 November 2014|archive-date=24 September 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150924211416/http://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/28866670|url-status=live}}</ref> With the departure of Alonso he was partnered with newly arrived [[Toni Kroos]].<ref name="Tweedale2014">{{cite news|url=https://www.whoscored.com/Articles/mjk1X3mqIkuZEsOXI7Pp-Q/Show/Player-Focus-Modest-Modric-Madrids-Superstar-in-the-Shadows|title=Player Focus: Modest Modric Madrid's Superstar in the Shadows|first=Alistair|last=Tweedale|date=17 September 2014|publisher=WhoScored.com|access-date=14 July 2017|quote=It is fair to say with Xavi's decline Modric is now ahead of him in the pecking order, and he, Kroos, Cesc Fàbregas and Andrea Pirlo are now arguably the best technical central midfielders on the planet at present, and some might even say that Modric is, or could soon be, leading the pack.|archive-date=14 September 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170914173343/https://www.whoscored.com/Articles/mjk1X3mqIkuZEsOXI7Pp-Q/Show/Player-Focus-Modest-Modric-Madrids-Superstar-in-the-Shadows|url-status=live}}</ref> Real Madrid began the [[2014–15 Real Madrid CF season|2014–15 season]] by winning the [[2014 UEFA Super Cup|UEFA Super Cup]] over [[Sevilla FC|Sevilla]]<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/28741099 |title=Super Cup: Cristiano Ronaldo scores twice in Real Madrid win |first=Rob |last=Phillips |date=12 August 2014 |work=BBC Sport |access-date=28 September 2014 |archive-date=25 November 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151125073940/http://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/28741099 |url-status=live }}</ref> Modrić assisted twice for Bale, first against [[Real Sociedad]] in [[2014–15 La Liga|La Liga]],<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2014/aug/31/real-sociedad-real-madrid-la-liga-match-report |title=Real Sociedad's David Zurutuza scores twice to defeat Real Madrid |date=31 August 2014 |work=The Guardian |access-date=28 September 2014 |archive-date=19 March 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170319114148/https://www.theguardian.com/football/2014/aug/31/real-sociedad-real-madrid-la-liga-match-report |url-status=live }}</ref> and second against [[FC Basel|Basel]] in the [[2014–15 UEFA Champions League|Champions League]].<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2014/sep/16/real-madrid-basel-champions-league |title=Gareth Bale on the mark as Basel suffer Champions League blitz at Real Madrid |date=16 September 2014 |work=The Guardian |access-date=28 September 2014 |archive-date=10 July 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180710010318/https://www.theguardian.com/football/2014/sep/16/real-madrid-basel-champions-league |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/season=2015/matches/round=2000548/match=2014318/postmatch/report/index.html |title=Rampant Madrid ease Basel aside |first=Joseph |last=Walker |date=16 September 2014 |work=UEFA |access-date=28 September 2014 |archive-date=19 September 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140919011711/http://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/season=2015/matches/round=2000548/match=2014318/postmatch/report/index.html |url-status=live }}</ref> In the 2–0 away win against [[Villarreal CF|Villarreal]], Modrić scored his seventh goal from outside of the box.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/29311925 |title=First-half goals from Luka Modric and Cristiano Ronaldo helped Real Madrid continue their La Liga resurgence with a hard-fought victory over Villarreal |date=27 September 2014 |work=BBC Sport |access-date=28 September 2014 |archive-date=28 September 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140928005527/http://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/29311925 |url-status=live }}</ref> |
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In late November, Modrić sustained a thigh injury during an international match against [[Italy national football team|Italy]], because of which he did not play for three months.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/30102676 |title=Luka Modric: Real Madrid star ruled out for over three months |date=18 November 2014 |work=BBC Sport |access-date=27 November 2014 |archive-date=2 December 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141202031258/http://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/30102676 |url-status=live }}</ref> He returned in early March 2015, starting in seven matches and proving his form.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.realmadrid.com/en/news/2015/04/modric-the-midfielder-with-most-passes-since-his-return |title=Modric, the midfielder with most passes since his return |date=3 April 2015 |publisher=Real Madrid CF |access-date=19 January 2016 |archive-date=27 January 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160127234124/http://www.realmadrid.com/en/news/2015/04/modric-the-midfielder-with-most-passes-since-his-return |url-status=live }}</ref> On 21 April, in the 3–1 home win against Málaga, he strained ligaments in his right knee, because of which he did not play until May.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2308173-luka-modric-injury-updates-on-real-madrid-stars-knee-and-return |title=Luka Modric Injury: Updates on Real Madrid Star's Knee and Return |date=19 April 2015 |publisher=Bleacher Report |access-date=19 January 2016 |archive-date=25 January 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160125050143/http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2308173-luka-modric-injury-updates-on-real-madrid-stars-knee-and-return |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.espnfc.com/real-madrid/story/2410488/luka-modric-hopes-to-play-for-real-madrid-again-this-season |title=Luka Modric hopes to play for Real Madrid again this season |date=21 April 2015 |publisher=ESPN |access-date=19 January 2016 |archive-date=26 January 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160126182500/http://www.espnfc.com/real-madrid/story/2410488/luka-modric-hopes-to-play-for-real-madrid-again-this-season |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.espnfc.com/real-madrid/story/2424186/no-row-with-real-madrid-over-luka-modric-says-croatia-coach |title=No row with Real Madrid over Luka Modric, says Croatia coach Kovac |date=29 April 2015 |publisher=ESPN |access-date=19 January 2016 |archive-date=26 January 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160126210623/http://www.espnfc.com/real-madrid/story/2424186/no-row-with-real-madrid-over-luka-modric-says-croatia-coach |url-status=live }}</ref> With his injury, Real Madrid's 22-match winning run in the season came to an end. His absence and the lack of a quality substitute were seen as the main cause of Real Madrid's failure to win matches in La Liga and the Champions League.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.marca.com/en/2015/09/09/en/football/real_madrid/1441814099.html |title=Modric – Real Madrid's image of maturity |date=9 September 2015 |work=Marca |location=Spain |access-date=19 January 2016 |archive-date=14 February 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210214193426/https://www.marca.com/en/2015/09/09/en/football/real_madrid/1441814099.html |url-status=live }}</ref> Ancelotti said, "Modrić has missed most of the year and this has hurt us."<ref name="CollinsTim">{{Cite news|url=http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2511732-why-luka-modric-is-absolutely-vital-to-real-madrids-midfield-fluency|title=Why Luka Modric Is Absolutely Vital to Real Madrid's Midfield Fluency|last=Collins|first=Tim|date=2 July 2015|work=Bleacher Report|access-date=6 July 2018|archive-date=7 July 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180707231243/http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2511732-why-luka-modric-is-absolutely-vital-to-real-madrids-midfield-fluency|url-status=live}}</ref> Modrić's influence was recognised and he was selected by professional players in the [[FIFPro#FIFA FIFPRO Men's World 11|FIFA FIFPro World XI]].<ref name="FIFPro">{{cite web|url=https://www.fifa.com/the-best-fifa-football-awards/news/y=2016/m=1/news=2015-fifa-fifpro-world-xi-revealed-2754606.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161111190222/http://www.fifa.com/the-best-fifa-football-awards/news/y=2016/m=1/news=2015-fifa-fifpro-world-xi-revealed-2754606.html|url-status=dead|archive-date=11 November 2016|title=2015 FIFA FIFPro World XI revealed|date=11 January 2016|publisher=FIFA|access-date=10 January 2017}}</ref> |
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====2015–17: Among the world's best players and ''La Undécima'' and ''Duodécima''==== |
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[[File:Shahter-Reak M 2015 (10).jpg|thumb|upright|Modrić playing against [[FC Shakhtar Donetsk|Shakhtar Donetsk]] during their [[2015–16 UEFA Champions League group stage#Group A|group stage match]] in the UEFA Champions League in November 2015]] |
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For the [[2015–16 Real Madrid CF season|2015–16 season]], Carlo Ancelotti was replaced by [[Rafael Benítez]] under whom Modrić continued to be a key midfield player.<ref name="Master"/><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.marca.com/en/2015/07/16/en/football/real_madrid/1437034618.html |title=Super Luka |date=16 July 2015 |first=Pablo |last=Polo |work=Marca |location=Spain |access-date=7 February 2016 |archive-date=5 April 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160405155426/http://www.marca.com/en/2015/07/16/en/football/real_madrid/1437034618.html |url-status=live }}</ref> He sustained a muscular groin injury during an international match against [[Bulgaria national football team|Bulgaria]] in October, initially suggesting an absence of two-to-three weeks.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.marca.com/en/2015/10/14/en/football/real_madrid/1444845062.html |title=Modric out for 2–3 weeks |date=14 October 2015 |work=Marca |location=Spain |access-date=20 January 2016 |archive-date=2 February 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160202103459/http://www.marca.com/en/2015/10/14/en/football/real_madrid/1444845062.html |url-status=live }}</ref> However, by 20 October, he had recovered in time for the match against [[Paris Saint-Germain F.C.|Paris Saint-Germain]].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.marca.com/en/2015/10/20/en/football/real_madrid/1445338755.html |title=Ramos and Modric make the trip to PSG |date=20 October 2015 |work=Marca |location=Spain |access-date=20 January 2016 |archive-date=22 November 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151122131921/http://www.marca.com/en/2015/10/20/en/football/real_madrid/1445338755.html |url-status=live }}</ref> |
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With the arrival of new manager [[Zinedine Zidane]] in January 2016,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.skysports.com/football/news/11835/10125444/real-madrid-right-to-replace-rafa-benitez-with-zinedine-zidane-says-luka-modric |title=Luka Modric backs new Real Madrid boss Zinedine Zidane |date=10 January 2016 |publisher=Sky Sports |access-date=20 January 2016 |archive-date=2 July 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180702011104/http://www.skysports.com/football/news/11835/10125444/real-madrid-right-to-replace-rafa-benitez-with-zinedine-zidane-says-luka-modric |url-status=live }}</ref> the relationship between them was noted in the media, with Modrić described as "master of the game",<ref name="Master">{{cite web |url=http://www.marca.com/en/football/real-madrid/2016/01/18/569c1dd1ca474148498b45e1.html |title=Modric now master of the game |date=18 January 2016 |work=Marca |location=Spain |access-date=20 January 2016 |archive-date=2 July 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180702011316/http://www.marca.com/en/football/real-madrid/2016/01/18/569c1dd1ca474148498b45e1.html |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.marca.com/futbol/real-madrid/2016/01/13/56967a11268e3ea32e8b4604.html |title=Luka y Zidane, conexión total |date=13 January 2016 |first=Hugo |last=Cerezo |work=Marca |location=Spain |access-date=20 January 2016 |language=es |archive-date=2 July 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180702011304/http://www.marca.com/futbol/real-madrid/2016/01/13/56967a11268e3ea32e8b4604.html |url-status=live }}</ref> and the crucial "connector" of the defence and attack.<ref name="Connector">{{cite web |url=http://www.sportsnet.ca/soccer/real-madrid-la-liga-champions-league-zinedine-zidane-luka-modric-croatian-spain/ |title=Modric flourishing under Zidane at Real Madrid |date=18 January 2016 |first=Jerrad |last=Peters |work=SportsNet |access-date=20 January 2016 |archive-date=2 July 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180702035633/https://www.sportsnet.ca/soccer/real-madrid-la-liga-champions-league-zinedine-zidane-luka-modric-croatian-spain/ |url-status=live }}</ref> It was seen in the first three matches, wins against [[Deportivo de La Coruña|Deportivo La Coruña]] and [[Sporting de Gijón|Sporting Gijón]] and a draw against [[Real Betis]], in which Modrić was praised for creating chances, his positioning and overall performance and influence.<ref name="Master"/><ref name="Connector"/><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.marca.com/futbol/real-madrid/2016/01/26/56a73405268e3e744d8b45dc.html |title=Modric de 10 |date=26 January 2016 |first=David G. |last=Medina |work=Marca |location=Spain |access-date=7 February 2016 |language=es |archive-date=28 January 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160128235640/http://www.marca.com/futbol/real-madrid/2016/01/26/56a73405268e3e744d8b45dc.html |url-status=live }}</ref> On 7 February, Modrić scored a winning goal from outside the box in a 1–2 away win against [[Granada CF|Granada]].<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/35452578 |title=Modric earns Real Madrid late win |date=7 February 2016 |work=BBC Sport |access-date=7 February 2016 |archive-date=7 February 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160207224525/http://www.bbc.com/sport/football/35452578 |url-status=live }}</ref> Modrić was a regular in the starting line-up when the team won the [[2015–16 UEFA Champions League|2015–16 Champions League]] in the [[2016 UEFA Champions League Final|final]] against Atlético.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/season=2016/matches/round=2000638/match=2015789/postmatch/report/index.html|title=Spot-on Real Madrid defeat Atlético in final again|date=28 May 2016|work=UEFA|access-date=29 May 2016|archive-date=10 January 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180110225552/http://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/season=2016/matches/round=2000638/match=2015789/postmatch/report/index.html|url-status=live}}</ref> He was included in both Champions League,<ref name="CL 2015/16 Team">{{cite web|url=http://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/news/newsid=2369627.html|title=UEFA Champions League Squad of the Season|date=30 May 2016|work=UEFA|access-date=7 June 2016|archive-date=30 July 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190730171112/https://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/news/newsid=2369627.html|url-status=live}}</ref> and La Liga's team of the season.<ref name="La Liga 2015/16 Team">{{cite web |title=The Liga BBVA 2015/16 Team of the Season |publisher=Liga de Fútbol Profesional |date=1 June 2016 |url=http://www.laliga.es/en/news/the-liga-bbva-201516-team-of-the-season |access-date=4 June 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181118134749/http://www.laliga.es/en/news/the-liga-bbva-201516-team-of-the-season |archive-date=18 November 2018 |url-status=dead }}</ref> For the second time, he also received the [[LFP Awards|LFP award]] for the "Best Midfielder" of the Spanish first league.<ref name="LFPAward2">{{cite web |url=http://www.laliga.es/en/news/luka-modric-named-best-midfielder-of-laliga-santander-201516 |title=Luka Modric named Best Midfielder of LaLiga Santander 2015/16 |date=24 October 2016 |publisher=[[Liga de Fútbol Profesional|LFP]] |access-date=24 October 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180707040701/http://www.laliga.es/en/news/luka-modric-named-best-midfielder-of-laliga-santander-201516 |archive-date=7 July 2018 |url-status=dead }}</ref> He was for the second time included in the [[FIFPro#FIFA FIFPRO Men's World 11|FIFA FIFPro World XI]].<ref name="FIFPro2">{{cite web |url=https://www.fifa.com/the-best-fifa-football-awards/news/y=2017/m=1/news=the-best-named-at-fifa-football-awards-2862916.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170109225806/http://www.fifa.com/the-best-fifa-football-awards/news/y=2017/m=1/news=the-best-named-at-fifa-football-awards-2862916.html|url-status=dead|archive-date=9 January 2017|title=The Best named at FIFA Football Awards|date=9 January 2017|publisher=FIFA|access-date=9 January 2016}}</ref> |
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On 18 October 2016, Modrić signed a new contract with Real Madrid, keeping him at the club until 2020.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.realmadrid.com/en/news/2016/10/official-announcement-modric|title=Official Announcement: Modric|date=18 October 2016|access-date=18 October 2016|publisher=Real Madrid CF|archive-date=21 October 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161021202518/http://www.realmadrid.com/en/news/2016/10/official-announcement-modric?|url-status=live}}</ref> Due to injury of a left knee sustained in mid-September, he missed eight matches, returning early November.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.espnfc.com/spanish-primera-division/story/2991466/real-madrids-luka-modric-happy-to-be-back-after-injury-layoff|title=Real Madrid's Luka Modric 'happy' to be back after injury layoff|first=Dermot|last=Corrigan|date=7 November 2016|publisher=[[ESPN FC]]|access-date=15 July 2017|archive-date=24 June 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170624123449/http://www.espnfc.com/spanish-primera-division/story/2991466/real-madrids-luka-modric-happy-to-be-back-after-injury-layoff|url-status=live}}</ref> On 18 December, he won the [[2016 FIFA Club World Cup]] with Real Madrid, receiving the [[FIFA Club World Cup awards#Golden Ball|Silver Ball]] for his performances during the tournament.<ref name="Awards">{{cite web|url=https://www.fifa.com/clubworldcup/awards/index.html |title=2016 FIFA Club World Cup awards |work=[[FIFA]] |access-date=18 December 2016 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160112045127/http://www.fifa.com/clubworldcup/awards/index.html |archive-date=12 January 2016}}</ref> In January 2017, for the first time was included in the [[UEFA Team of the Year]] (2016).<ref name="UEFATOTY">{{cite web|url=http://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/news/newsid=2432743.html|title=Team of the Year 2016|date=5 January 2017|work=UEFA|access-date=10 January 2017|archive-date=6 January 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170106154910/http://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/news/newsid=2432743.html|url-status=live}}</ref> On 12 March 2017, in a 2–1 win over Real Betis, Modrić played his 200th match for Real Madrid.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.realmadrid.com/en/news/2017/03/florentino-perez-presented-modric-with-a-shirt-for-his-200-matches|title=Florentino Pérez presented Modric with a shirt for his 200 matches|date=12 March 2017|publisher=Real Madrid CF|access-date=13 March 2017|archive-date=13 March 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170313050159/http://www.realmadrid.com/en/news/2017/03/florentino-perez-presented-modric-with-a-shirt-for-his-200-matches|url-status=live}}</ref> |
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Modrić was a regular starter when Real Madrid won the [[2016–17 La Liga]],<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.laliga.es/noticias/real-madrid-campeon-de-laliga-santander-2016-17|title=El Real Madrid, campeón de LaLiga Santander 2016/17|date=21 May 2017|work=laliga.es|access-date=22 May 2017|archive-date=12 July 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190712180825/http://www.laliga.es/noticias/real-madrid-campeon-de-laliga-santander-2016-17|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/39926301|title=Real Madrid win La Liga title with victory at Malaga|date=21 May 2017|work=BBC Sport|access-date=11 February 2018|archive-date=26 December 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181226192537/https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/39926301|url-status=live}}</ref> as well as the [[2016–17 UEFA Champions League]], where he provided the assist for Cristiano Ronaldo's second goal in the [[2017 UEFA Champions League Final|final]] against [[Juventus FC|Juventus]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/season=2017/matches/round=2000787/match=2019641/postmatch/report/index.html|title=Majestic Real Madrid win Champions League in Cardiff|date=3 June 2017|work=UEFA|access-date=4 June 2017|archive-date=31 March 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190331042605/https://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/season=2017/matches/round=2000787/match=2019641/postmatch/report/index.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Modrić was included in Champions League team of the season<ref name="CL 2016/17 Team">{{cite web|url=http://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/news/newsid=2476068.html|title=UEFA Champions League Squad of the Season|date=5 June 2017|work=UEFA|access-date=9 June 2017|archive-date=29 July 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190729071410/https://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/news/newsid=2476068.html|url-status=live}}</ref> and became the first Croatian to win the Champions League three times.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://uk.reuters.com/article/uk-tennis-wimbledon-federer-idUKKBN19Z22G|title=Majestic Modric the key to Madrid's Champions League final turnaround|first=Rik|last=Sharma|date=4 June 2017|work=[[Reuters]]|access-date=15 July 2017|archive-date=15 July 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170715010924/http://uk.reuters.com/article/uk-tennis-wimbledon-federer-idUKKBN19Z22G|url-status=live}}</ref> He also received the [[UEFA Club Football Awards|UEFA Club Football award]] for Best Midfielder of the Champions League season.<ref name="CLMid2016-2017">{{cite news|title=Luka Modrić named #UCL midfielder of the season|url=http://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/news/newsid=2493356.html|date=24 August 2017|work=UEFA|access-date=24 August 2017|archive-date=27 August 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170827104005/http://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/news/newsid=2493356.html|url-status=live}}</ref> In the competition for the [[UEFA Men's Player of the Year Award]], he came fourth,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://hns-cff.hr/en/news/16696/luka-modric-the-best-midfielder-of-201617-champions-league/|title=Luka Modrić, the best midfielder of 2016/17 Champions League|date=24 October 2017|publisher=[[Croatian Football Federation]]|access-date=16 December 2017|archive-date=17 December 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171217015850/http://hns-cff.hr/en/news/16696/luka-modric-the-best-midfielder-of-201617-champions-league/|url-status=live}}</ref> while for [[2017 Ballon d'Or]], fifth.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.francefootball.fr/news/Luka-modric-est-dans-le-top-5-du-ballon-d-or-france-football-2017/857373|title=Luka Modric est dans le top 5 du Ballon d'Or France Football 2017|date=7 December 2017|work=[[France Football]]|access-date=16 December 2017|archive-date=7 July 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180707035619/https://www.francefootball.fr/news/Luka-modric-est-dans-le-top-5-du-ballon-d-or-france-football-2017/857373|url-status=live}}</ref> For the third time, he was also included in the [[FIFPro#FIFA FIFPRO Men's World 11|FIFA FIFPro World XI]].<ref name="FIFPro3">{{cite web|url=https://www.fifa.com/the-best-fifa-football-awards/news/y=2017/m=10/news=cristiano-ronaldo-and-lieke-martens-cap-dream-season-at-the-best-fifa--2916955.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171024043659/http://www.fifa.com/the-best-fifa-football-awards/news/y=2017/m=10/news=cristiano-ronaldo-and-lieke-martens-cap-dream-season-at-the-best-fifa--2916955.html|url-status=dead|archive-date=24 October 2017|title=Cristiano Ronaldo and Lieke Martens cap dream season at The Best FIFA Football Awards|date=23 October 2017|publisher=FIFA|access-date=23 October 2017}}</ref> |
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====2017–18: Ballon d'Or and third consecutive Champions League title==== |
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[[File:Liver-RM (2).jpg|thumb|left|Modrić (left) with [[Gareth Bale]] during the [[2018 UEFA Champions League Final|2018 Champions League Final]]|250x250px]] |
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With the departure of [[James Rodríguez]] to Bayern Munich, Modrić inherited the team's coveted [[Squad number (association football)|number 10]] [[Kit (association football)|jersey]] for the new [[2017–18 Real Madrid CF season|2017–18 season]], replacing his previous number 19 jersey.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.goal.com/en/news/8/main/2017/07/22/37244792/modric-takes-no10-shirt-at-real-madrid-following-james-rodriguez-|title=Modric takes No.10 shirt at Real Madrid following James Rodriguez departure|date=22 July 2017|access-date=22 July 2017|publisher=Goal.com|archive-date=25 July 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170725050918/http://www.goal.com/en/news/8/main/2017/07/22/37244792/modric-takes-no10-shirt-at-real-madrid-following-james-rodriguez-|url-status=live}}</ref> In December, he won the [[2017 FIFA Club World Cup]] with Real Madrid and received the [[FIFA Club World Cup awards#Golden Ball|Golden Ball]] award as the best player of the competition for his performance.<ref name="MarcaGolden">{{cite news|author=Juan Ignacio García-Ochoa|url=http://www.marca.com/en/football/real-madrid/2017/12/16/5a35795a46163f85378b4600.html|title=Modric claims 2017 Club World Cup golden ball|date=16 December 2017|work=Marca|location=Spain|access-date=16 December 2017|archive-date=4 July 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180704005853/http://www.marca.com/en/football/real-madrid/2017/12/16/5a35795a46163f85378b4600.html|url-status=live}}</ref> His first goal of the season came in a 7–1 win over Deportivo de La Coruña on 21 January 2018.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/42762972|title=Real Madrid 7–1 Deportivo La Coruna|year=2018|work=BBC Sport|access-date=6 July 2018|archive-date=18 July 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180718073129/https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/42762972|url-status=live}}</ref> In the same month was for the second time included in the [[UEFA Team of the Year]] (2017).<ref name="UEFATOTY17">{{cite web|url=http://www.uefa.com/insideuefa/news/t-uefa/news/newsid=2529238.html|title=UEFA.com Fans' Team of the Year 2017 announced|work=UEFA|date=11 January 2018|access-date=11 January 2018|archive-date=26 March 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200326013142/https://www.uefa.com/insideuefa/news/t-uefa/news/newsid=2529238.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Modrić was a regular starter when Real Madrid won the [[2017–18 UEFA Champions League]], starting in the [[2018 UEFA Champions League Final|final]] victory against Liverpool which saw Madrid win their third consecutive title.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/season=2018/matches/round=2000885/match=2021711/postmatch/report/index.html|title=Madrid beat Liverpool to complete hat-trick|date=26 May 2018|work=UEFA|access-date=27 May 2018|archive-date=27 May 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180527203029/http://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/season=2018/matches/round=2000885/match=2021711/postmatch/report/index.html|url-status=live}}</ref> For his performances throughout the campaign, Modrić was included in Champions League team of the season for the third consecutive time.<ref name="CL 2017/18 Team">{{cite web|url=http://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/news/newsid=2560100.html|title=UEFA Champions League Squad of the Season|date=27 May 2018|work=UEFA|access-date=27 May 2018|archive-date=4 August 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190804085815/https://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/news/newsid=2560100.html|url-status=live}}</ref> He later received the [[UEFA Club Football Awards#Best Midfielder|UEFA Club Football Award]] for Best Midfielder of the Champions League season for the second consecutive time.<ref name="CLMid2017-2018">{{cite web|url=https://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/news/newsid=2567663.html|title=Luka Modrić: Champions League Midfielder of the Season|work=UEFA|date=30 August 2018|access-date=30 August 2018|archive-date=13 October 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191013184906/https://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/news/newsid=2567663.html|url-status=live}}</ref> |
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Due to his club, and national team performance at the [[2018 FIFA World Cup]], where also received the [[FIFA World Cup awards#Golden Ball|Golden Ball]],<ref name="FIFAGolden"/> in August and September Modrić won the [[UEFA Men's Player of the Year Award]] and [[The Best FIFA Football Awards 2018|The Best FIFA Men's Player Award]],<ref name="UEFAMPYA">{{cite web|url=https://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/news/newsid=2567658.html|title=Luka Modrić wins UEFA Men's Player of the Year award|date=30 August 2018|work=UEFAs|access-date=30 August 2018|archive-date=23 October 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181023130912/https://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/news/newsid=2567658.html|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="FIFAPYA">{{cite web|url=https://www.fifa.com/the-best-fifa-football-awards/best-fifa-mens-player/|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161107113413/http://www.fifa.com/the-best-fifa-football-awards/best-fifa-mens-player/|url-status=dead|archive-date=7 November 2016|title=The Best FIFA Men's Player|date=24 September 2018|publisher=FIFA|access-date=24 September 2018}}</ref> while in December, he added the [[2018 Ballon d'Or|Ballon d'Or]] to his personal tally,<ref name="BBCBallon">{{Cite news|url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/46432933|title=Ballon d'Or: Luka Modric ends dominance of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo|work=BBC Sport|date=3 December 2018|access-date=3 December 2018|archive-date=3 December 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181203230951/https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/46432933|url-status=live}}</ref> marking the first time since 2007 that the award was not won by [[Lionel Messi]] or Cristiano Ronaldo. <ref name="BBCBallon"/><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://apnews.com/5504488c0bfa4ff689820d71de32b882/Modric-wins-world-player-of-year,-ends-Ronaldo-Messi-duology|title=Modric wins world player of year, ends Ronaldo-Messi duopoly|author=Rob Harris|work=AP News|access-date=24 September 2018|archive-date=11 September 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200911024100/https://apnews.com/5504488c0bfa4ff689820d71de32b882/Modric-wins-world-player-of-year,-ends-Ronaldo-Messi-duology|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.footballparadise.com/looking-back-modric-ballon-dor/|title=When Everything's Right: Looking Back on Luka Modric's Ballon D'or Victory|last=Kilpeläinen|first=Juuso|work=[[Football Paradise]]|date=29 August 2020|access-date=15 December 2020|archive-date=25 October 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201025160024/https://www.footballparadise.com/looking-back-modric-ballon-dor/|url-status=live}}</ref> Furthermore, besides becoming the first Croatian player to win these awards,<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://global.espn.com/football/real-madrid/story/3645199/luka-modric-wins-fifa-the-best-award-ends-ronaldo-messi-duopoly?src=com|title=Luka Modric wins FIFA The Best award, ends Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi duopoly|publisher=ESPN|date=24 September 2018|access-date=25 September 2018|archive-date=25 September 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180925180446/http://global.espn.com/football/real-madrid/story/3645199/luka-modric-wins-fifa-the-best-award-ends-ronaldo-messi-duopoly?src=com|url-status=live}}</ref> Modrić was the first player to win both the World Cup Golden Ball and the UEFA Men's Player of the Year Award in the same year since [[Ronaldo (Brazilian footballer)|Ronaldo]] in 1998,<ref>{{cite news|url=https://net.hr/sport/nogomet/modric-poput-pravog-ronalda-ne-cristiana-na-momcadskoj-razini-nize-trofeje-na-osobnoj-priznanja-a-to-nije-videno-20-godina/|title=Modrić Poput Pravog Ronalda, Ne Cristiana: Na momčadskoj razini niže trofeje, na osobnoj priznanja, ovo nije viđeno 20 godina|trans-title=Modrić Like Real Ronaldo, Not Cristiano: At the team level run trophies, on a personal recognition, this has not been seen 20 years|date=31 August 2018|publisher=Net.hr|language=hr|access-date=25 September 2018|archive-date=25 October 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201025160116/https://net.hr/sport/nogomet/modric-poput-pravog-ronalda-ne-cristiana-na-momcadskoj-razini-nize-trofeje-na-osobnoj-priznanja-a-to-nije-videno-20-godina/|url-status=live}}</ref> and the World Cup Golden Ball and the Best FIFA Men's Player of the Year Award after [[Romário]] in 1994.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://net.hr/sport/nogomet/modric-napravio-ono-sto-nije-videno-24-godine-samo-je-jedan-velikan-prije-luke-uspio-u-ovome/|title=Modrić Napravio Ono Što Nije Viđeno 24 Godine: Samo je jedan velikan prije Luke uspio u ovome|trans-title=Modrić did what has not been seen for 24 years: Just one giant before Luka succeeded in this|date=24 September 2018|publisher=Net.hr|language=hr|access-date=25 September 2018|archive-date=3 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200803130628/https://net.hr/sport/nogomet/modric-napravio-ono-sto-nije-videno-24-godine-samo-je-jedan-velikan-prije-luke-uspio-u-ovome/|url-status=live}}</ref> Additionally, he is the first player to win the awards from the [[former Yugoslavia]] territory, the first footballer from [[Eastern Europe]] to win a [[Ballon d'Or]] after [[Andriy Shevchenko]] in 2004,<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/live/2018/dec/03/ballon-dor-2018-modric-messi-ronaldo-award-live|title=Ballon d'Or 2018: Luka Modric and Ada Hegerberg win awards – as it happened|author1=Jacob Steinberg|author2=Niall McVeigh|work=The Guardian|date=3 December 2018|access-date=3 December 2018|quote=...He's the first Croatian to win, the first man from what was once Yugoslavia to win, and the first from Eastern Europe since Andriy Shevchenko in 2004.|archive-date=3 December 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181203204146/https://www.theguardian.com/football/live/2018/dec/03/ballon-dor-2018-modric-messi-ronaldo-award-live|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2018/12/03/sports/luka-modric-ballon-dor.html|title=Luka Modric Wins Ballon d'Or, Ending Decade of Ronaldo and Messi Triumphs|author=Andrew Das|work=[[The New York Times]]|date=3 December 2018|access-date=3 December 2018|archive-date=4 December 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181204053852/https://www.nytimes.com/2018/12/03/sports/luka-modric-ballon-dor.html|url-status=live}}</ref> and the tenth player from Real Madrid to capture the trophy.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.realmadrid.com/en/news/2018/12/real-madrids-ballon-dor-winners|title=Real Madrid's Ballon d'Or winners|publisher=Real Madrid CF|date=3 December 2018|access-date=3 December 2018|archive-date=25 October 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201025160219/https://www.realmadrid.com/en/news/2018/12/real-madrids-ballon-dor-winners|url-status=live}}</ref> Furthermore, winning the trophy triggered a clause in his contract, ensuring his stay at the club until 2021.<ref>{{Cite web|date=23 May 2019|title=Modric will be the next to sign ... thanks to the Ballon D'Or|url=https://www.besoccer.com/new/modric-will-be-the-next-to-sign-thanks-to-the-ballon-d-or-639221|access-date=1 September 2020|website=BeSoccer|archive-date=25 October 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201025155655/https://www.besoccer.com/new/modric-will-be-the-next-to-sign-thanks-to-the-ballon-d-or-639221|url-status=live}}</ref> He was also included in the [[FIFPro#FIFA FIFPRO Men's World 11|FIFA FIFPro World XI]] for the fourth time,<ref name="FIFPro4">{{cite web|url=https://www.fifa.com/the-best-fifa-football-awards/fifa-fifpro-world11/|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170112174410/http://www.fifa.com/the-best-fifa-football-awards/fifa-fifpro-world11/|url-status=dead|archive-date=12 January 2017|title=FIFA FIFPro World11|date=24 September 2018|publisher=FIFA|access-date=24 September 2018}}</ref> and won the [[International Federation of Football History & Statistics#The World's Best Playmaker|IFFHS World's Best Playmaker]] award.<ref name="IFFHSPlay">{{cite web|url=https://iffhs.de/iffhs-awards-2018-the-worlds-best-playmaker-2018-luka-modric-on-the-top/|title=IFFHS AWARDS – THE WORLD'S BEST PLAYMAKER 2018 : LUKA MODRIC ON THE TOP !|publisher=iffhs.de|date=29 November 2018|access-date=29 November 2018|archive-date=24 October 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191024002858/https://iffhs.de/iffhs-awards-2018-the-worlds-best-playmaker-2018-luka-modric-on-the-top/|url-status=live}}</ref> |
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After receiving the FIFA Men's Player of the Year Award, Modrić stated it "shows that we all can become the best with hard work, dedication, and belief, all dreams can come true".<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/luka-modric-fifa-best-player-2018-how-real-madrid-star-broke-the-cristiano-ronaldo-and-lionel-messi-a3944686.html|title=Luka Modric, Fifa Best Player 2018: How Real Madrid star broke the Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi duopoly|author=Ben Hayward|date=25 September 2018|work=[[London Evening Standard]]|access-date=4 December 2018|archive-date=4 December 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181204103459/https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/luka-modric-fifa-best-player-2018-how-real-madrid-star-broke-the-cristiano-ronaldo-and-lionel-messi-a3944686.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Modrić dedicated the Ballon d'Or to "all the players who probably deserved to win it and didn't" in the past decade, including [[Xavi (footballer, born 1980)|Xavi]], [[Andrés Iniesta]], and [[Wesley Sneijder]] among others.<ref name="BBCBallon"/> |
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====2018–21: Two-time champion of Spain==== |
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The arrival of new manager [[Julen Lopetegui]] in August 2018 saw Modrić given a steady return to the first team as a substitute due to his lack of pre-season training after the 2018 World Cup.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.marca.com/en/football/real-madrid/2018/08/26/5b82fd4a22601d43148b45be.html|title=Modric: Three matches and he has started all on the bench|date=26 August 2018|work=Marca|location=Spain|access-date=2 September 2018|archive-date=29 September 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180929052646/http://www.marca.com/en/football/real-madrid/2018/08/26/5b82fd4a22601d43148b45be.html|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|author=Arch Bell|url=http://www.skysports.com/football/news/11835/11483363/real-madrid-boss-julen-lopetegui-praises-team-mentality-after-girona-win|title=Real Madrid boss Julen Lopetegui praises team mentality after Girona win|date=27 August 2018|publisher=[[Sky Sports]]|access-date=2 September 2018|archive-date=11 September 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200911124342/https://www.skysports.com/football/news/11835/11483363/real-madrid-boss-julen-lopetegui-praises-team-mentality-after-girona-win|url-status=live}}</ref> This included a substitute appearance in his team's 2–4 loss after extra time against Atlético Madrid in the [[2018 UEFA Super Cup|UEFA Super Cup]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/45188611|title=Real Madrid 2–4 Atlético Madrid|work=[[BBC Sport]]|author=Emma Sanders|date=15 August 2018|access-date=16 August 2018|archive-date=20 April 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190420202901/https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/45188611|url-status=live}}</ref> His first start of the season came on 1 September in a 4–1 home win against [[CD Leganés|Leganés]], in which he assisted his side's third goal, scored by [[Karim Benzema]].<ref>{{cite news|author=Arch Bell|url=http://www.marca.com/en/football/real-madrid/2018/09/01/5b8afb20e2704e1cbf8b4586.html|title=Real Madrid rocket past Leganes|date=1 September 2018|work=Marca|location=Spain|access-date=2 September 2018|archive-date=9 October 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181009054455/http://www.marca.com/en/football/real-madrid/2018/09/01/5b8afb20e2704e1cbf8b4586.html|url-status=live}}</ref> His 100th appearance in the UEFA club competition came on 19 September in a 3–0 home win against [[A.S. Roma|Roma]],<ref name="ElvirUEFA"/> in which he assisted the second goal, scored by Gareth Bale.<ref>{{cite news|author=José Félix Díaz|url=http://www.marca.com/en/football/real-madrid/2018/09/20/5ba36ad5268e3eaf108b4654.html|title=Modric justifies the entrance fee and gives meaning to football|date=20 September 2018|work=Marca|location=Spain|access-date=24 September 2018|archive-date=24 September 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180924043214/http://www.marca.com/en/football/real-madrid/2018/09/20/5ba36ad5268e3eaf108b4654.html|url-status=live}}</ref> On 22 December, Modrić won his third [[2018 FIFA Club World Cup|FIFA Club World Cup]], scoring the first goal and assisting for the third in the [[2018 FIFA Club World Cup Final|final]] against [[Al Ain FC|Al Ain]].<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/46651517|title=Real Madrid 4–1 Al Ain: Spanish giants win Club World Cup again|date=22 December 2018|work=BBC Sport|access-date=22 December 2018|archive-date=7 April 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190407141944/https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/46651517|url-status=live}}</ref> On 13 and 19 January 2019, Modrić for the first time scored in two consecutive league games for Real Madrid, in a 1–2 away win against Real Betis and 2–0 home win against Sevilla.<ref>{{cite news|author=J. L. Calderón|url=https://www.marca.com/en/football/real-madrid/2019/01/20/5c43a3ad46163fefb08b45b1.html|title=The midfielders carry the goalscoring burden at Real Madrid|date=20 January 2019|work=Marca|location=Spain|access-date=20 January 2019|archive-date=3 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200803124217/https://www.marca.com/en/football/real-madrid/2019/01/20/5c43a3ad46163fefb08b45b1.html|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|author=Margarita Khaymina|url=https://tribuna.com/en/realmadrid/news/3288567/|title=Modric has never scored in two consecutive La Liga games before|date=20 January 2019|work=Tribuna.com|access-date=20 January 2019|archive-date=18 April 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190418130748/https://tribuna.com/en/realmadrid/news/3288567/|url-status=dead}}</ref> In the same month was included in the [[UEFA Team of the Year]] (2018) for the third time in his career.<ref name="UEFATOTY18">{{cite web|url=https://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/news/newsid=2589223.html|title=UEFA.com fans' Team of the Year 2018 revealed|work=UEFA|date=11 January 2019|access-date=11 January 2019|archive-date=13 July 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190713090104/https://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/news/newsid=2589223.html|url-status=live}}</ref> From 27 February to 5 March, Modrić went through what he described as "the most difficult week of his football life,"<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.marca.com/en/football/real-madrid/2019/03/07/5c817bb8468aebc3228b45b9.html|title=Modric:This has been the most difficult week of my career|website=Marca|location=Spain|last=Whelan|first=Padraig|date=7 March 2019|access-date=17 July 2020|archive-date=8 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200808042328/https://www.marca.com/en/football/real-madrid/2019/03/07/5c817bb8468aebc3228b45b9.html|url-status=live}}</ref> with Real Madrid losing to Barcelona twice and Ajax and crashing out of [[2018–19 Copa del Rey|Copa del Rey]], [[2018–19 La Liga|title]] race and the [[2018–19 UEFA Champions League|Champions League]], respectively.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/real-madrid-0-barcelona-3-luis-suarez-el-clasico-copa-del-rey-final-spot-a4078521.html|title=Real Madrid 0 Barcelona 3: Luis Suarez humiliates El Clasico rivals to seal Copa del Rey final spot|last=Hayward|first=Ben|website=London Evening Standard|date=17 February 2019|access-date=17 July 2020|archive-date=27 February 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200227220351/https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/real-madrid-0-barcelona-3-luis-suarez-el-clasico-copa-del-rey-final-spot-a4078521.html|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=Real Madrid 0–1 Barcelona: Rakitic sends Barca 10 points clear in La Liga|date=2 March 2019|access-date=2 March 2020|website=BBC Sport|url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/47417260|archive-date=17 April 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190417042236/https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/47417260|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/47442879|title=Real Madrid 1–4 Ajax: Brilliant visitors knock out Champions League holders|website=BBC Sport|last=Poole|first=Harry|date=5 March 2019|access-date=17 July 2020|archive-date=19 June 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190619202257/https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/47442879|url-status=live}}</ref> Despite having had an underwhelming [[2018–19 Real Madrid CF season|season]],<ref name="Siguero10919">{{cite news|author=Santi Siguero|url=https://www.marca.com/en/football/real-madrid/2019/09/01/5d6baefc268e3ec9218b45f3.html|title=Modric returns, Zidane's midfield metronome|date=1 September 2019|work=Marca|location=Spain|access-date=25 November 2019|archive-date=3 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200803124052/https://www.marca.com/en/football/real-madrid/2019/09/01/5d6baefc268e3ec9218b45f3.html|url-status=live}}</ref> for the fifth consecutive time he was included in the [[FIFPro#FIFA FIFPRO Men's World 11|FIFA FIFPro World XI]].<ref name="FIFPro5">{{cite web|url=https://fifpro.org/news/fifa-fifpro-men-s-world-11-2018-2019/en/|title=VAN DIJK AMONG FOUR DEBUTANTS IN MEN'S WORLD 11|website=FIFPro World Players' Union|date=23 September 2019|access-date=24 September 2019|archive-date=24 September 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190924000410/https://fifpro.org/news/fifa-fifpro-men-s-world-11-2018-2019/en/|url-status=live}}</ref> |
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On 27 August 2019 was the seventh anniversary of Modrić's signing with the club.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.marca.com/en/football/real-madrid/2019/08/27/5d658d3a268e3eba0a8b45b2.html|title=Real Madrid and Modric celebrate seven years together: It's been an incredible trip with the best club in the world|date=27 September 2019|work=Marca|location=Spain|access-date=25 November 2019|archive-date=4 August 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210804043520/https://www.marca.com/en/football/real-madrid/2019/08/27/5d658d3a268e3eba0a8b45b2.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Although raising doubts due to age of 34 and decision to continue playing with the national team which makes him prone to injuries,<ref>{{cite news|author=José Félix Díaz|url=https://www.marca.com/en/football/real-madrid/opinion/2019/11/02/5dbd7d03268e3e036d8b45da.html|title=Doubts over Modric and footballing ignorance|date=2 November 2019|work=Marca|location=Spain|access-date=25 November 2019|archive-date=3 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200803124310/https://www.marca.com/en/football/real-madrid/opinion/2019/11/02/5dbd7d03268e3e036d8b45da.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Modrić stated that wants to "recapture his best form this [[2019–20 Real Madrid CF season|season]]".<ref name="Siguero10919"/> His first goal of the season came on 5 October in a 4–2 home victory against Granada.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.marca.com/en/football/real-madrid/2019/10/05/5d98c7bd268e3e644a8b4653.html|title=Modric nets his first goal since Zidane's return... and does so in style|date=5 October 2019|work=Marca|location=Spain|access-date=25 November 2019|archive-date=3 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200803130545/https://www.marca.com/en/football/real-madrid/2019/10/05/5d98c7bd268e3e644a8b4653.html|url-status=live}}</ref> On 12 November was awarded with a [[Golden Foot]] award.<ref name="MarcaGoldenFoot">{{cite web|url=https://www.marca.com/en/football/real-madrid/2019/11/12/5dcb214b46163fa4788b45d8.html|title=Modric wins the 2019 Golden Foot award|work=Marca|location=Spain|date=12 November 2019|access-date=12 November 2019|archive-date=3 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200803123517/https://www.marca.com/en/football/real-madrid/2019/11/12/5dcb214b46163fa4788b45d8.html|url-status=live}}</ref> On 23 November he made two assists and scored a goal in a 3–1 home victory against Real Sociedad.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.marca.com/en/football/real-madrid/2019/11/23/5dd9b82ee2704ef4218b458c.html|title=Those who wanted Modric's exit will have to wait|date=23 November 2019|work=Marca|location=Spain|access-date=25 November 2019|archive-date=3 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200803124337/https://www.marca.com/en/football/real-madrid/2019/11/23/5dd9b82ee2704ef4218b458c.html|url-status=live}}</ref> On 8 January 2020, Modrić with ''[[Curl (association football)|trivela]]'' scored his fifth goal of the season and 100th career goal in a 3–1 victory against [[Valencia CF|Valencia]] in the semi-finals of [[2019–20 Supercopa de España]].<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.marca.com/en/football/real-madrid/2020/01/08/5e165c3fca4741ef1a8b460b.html|title=Modric scores his 100th career goal in style|date=8 January 2020|work=Marca|location=Spain|access-date=9 January 2020|archive-date=3 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200803131032/https://www.marca.com/en/football/real-madrid/2020/01/08/5e165c3fca4741ef1a8b460b.html|url-status=live}}</ref> On 12 January he successfully converted a penalty in a [[Penalty shootout|shootout]] as Real Madrid beat Atlético 4–1 on penalties in the [[2019–20 Supercopa de España Final|final]].<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.espn.com/soccer/report?gameId=559662|title=Real Madrid need penalties to beat Atletico, win Spanish Supercopa|date=12 January 2020|publisher=ESPN|access-date=24 June 2020|archive-date=18 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200818202218/https://www.espn.com/soccer/report?gameId=559662|url-status=live}}</ref> Following the continuation of [[2019–20 La Liga|La Liga]] after a three-month suspension due to [[COVID-19 pandemic in Spain|COVID-19 pandemic]], Modrić was praised for being one of Real Madrid's best players despite his age, resulting in numerous media outlets wondering about prolongation of his contract with the club.<ref>*{{Cite web|last=Hina|date=15 July 2020|title=Zidane usporedio sebe i Modrića i dao veliki kompliment Hrvatu: 'Pa ja sam se sa 34 ostavio nogometa!'|url=https://sportske.jutarnji.hr/sn/nogomet/primera/zidane-usporedio-sebe-i-modrica-i-dao-veliki-kompliment-hrvatu-pa-ja-sam-se-sa-34-ostavio-nogometa-15008371|access-date=16 July 2020|website=Sportske novosti|language=hr-hr|archive-date=4 September 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200904224449/https://www.marca.com/en/football/real-madrid/2020/07/14/5f0ce35922601da70d8b4579.html|url-status=live}} |
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*{{Cite web|date=15 July 2020|title=Marca opet hvali Modrića koji vuče Real do titule: 'Zidane mu je vjerovao i kad je igrao loše'|url=https://sportske.jutarnji.hr/sn/nogomet/primera/marca-opet-hvali-modrica-koji-vuce-real-do-titule-zidane-mu-je-vjerovao-i-kad-je-igrao-lose-15008436|access-date=16 July 2020|website=Sportske novosti|language=hr-hr|archive-date=4 September 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200904224449/https://www.marca.com/en/football/real-madrid/2020/07/14/5f0ce35922601da70d8b4579.html|url-status=live}} |
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*{{Cite web|last1=Lara|first1=Miguel Ángel|last2=Clancy|first2=Conor|date=13 July 2020|title=Modric imposes himself again|url=https://www.marca.com/en/football/real-madrid/2020/07/13/5f0c905fe2704e622c8b45f6.html|access-date=16 July 2020|website=Marca|location=Spain|archive-date=4 September 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200904224449/https://www.marca.com/en/football/real-madrid/2020/07/14/5f0ce35922601da70d8b4579.html|url-status=live}} |
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*{{Cite web|last1=Siguero|first1=Santiago|last2=Munday|first2=Billy|date=20 June 2020|title=Modric keeps his word|url=https://www.marca.com/en/football/real-madrid/2020/06/20/5eedd839ca4741d3048b45c4.html|access-date=16 July 2020|website=Marca|location=Spain|archive-date=4 September 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200904224449/https://www.marca.com/en/football/real-madrid/2020/07/14/5f0ce35922601da70d8b4579.html|url-status=live}} |
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*{{Cite web|last1=García-Ochoa|first1=Juan Ignacio|last2=Munday|first2=Billy|date=13 July 2020|title=Someone needs to get Modric a new contract... and fast|url=https://www.marca.com/en/football/real-madrid/2020/07/14/5f0ce35922601da70d8b4579.html|access-date=16 July 2020|website=Marca|location=Spain|archive-date=4 September 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200904224449/https://www.marca.com/en/football/real-madrid/2020/07/14/5f0ce35922601da70d8b4579.html|url-status=live}} |
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*{{Cite web|last=Cortegana|first=Mario|date=15 July 2020|title=Modric rejuvenece|url=https://as.com/futbol/2020/07/15/primera/1594802622_104207.html|access-date=16 July 2020|website=AS.com|language=es|archive-date=4 September 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200904224449/https://www.marca.com/en/football/real-madrid/2020/07/14/5f0ce35922601da70d8b4579.html|url-status=live}} |
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*{{Cite web|last=Villar|first=Álvaro Benito|date=14 July 2020|title=La enésima juventud de Modric|url=https://as.com/opinion/2020/07/14/portada/1594677710_210488.html|access-date=16 July 2020|website=AS.com|language=es|archive-date=4 September 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200904224449/https://www.marca.com/en/football/real-madrid/2020/07/14/5f0ce35922601da70d8b4579.html|url-status=live}} |
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*{{Cite news|last=Džindo|first=Edi|date=18 July 2020|title=AS: Realov komandos, dirigent, najzaslužniji je za naslov! Ćorluka: Ma igraj do 40!|language=hr|work=Večernji list|url=https://www.vecernji.hr/amp/sport/as-realov-komandos-dirigent-najzasluzniji-je-za-naslov-corluka-ma-igraj-do-40-1418002|access-date=19 July 2020|archive-date=9 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201109053849/https://www.vecernji.hr/amp/sport/as-realov-komandos-dirigent-najzasluzniji-je-za-naslov-corluka-ma-igraj-do-40-1418002|url-status=live}}</ref> On 16 July, he assisted Benzema's opening goal in a 2–1 victory over Villarreal, as Real Madrid secured the league title.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://gol.dnevnik.hr/clanak/rubrika/nogomet/real-madrid-je-novi-prvak-spanjolske---613382.html|title=Real je prvak Španjolske: Sjajni Modrić asistirao, Barcelona izgubila!|website=Gol.hr|language=hr|date=16 July 2020|access-date=16 July 2020|archive-date=16 July 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200716212815/https://gol.dnevnik.hr/clanak/rubrika/nogomet/real-madrid-je-novi-prvak-spanjolske---613382.html|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|last=Santos|first=Sergio|date=16 July 2020|title=1x1 del Real Madrid: nuevo recital de Modric y Benzema|url=https://as.com/futbol/2020/07/16/primera/1594933780_310551.html|website=AS.com|language=es|access-date=16 July 2020|archive-date=18 July 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200718144630/https://as.com/futbol/2020/07/16/primera/1594933780_310551.html|url-status=live}}</ref> |
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On 21 October 2020, he scored his first goal of the [[2020–21 Real Madrid CF season|2020–21 season]] in a [[2020–21 UEFA Champions League|Champions League]] 3–2 defeat to Shakhtar Donetsk.<ref>{{Cite web|date=21 October 2020|title=Video: Pogledajte čudesnu golčinu Modrića! Real je bio na rubu ponora, a onda se ukazao hrvatski Maestro|url=https://sportske.jutarnji.hr/sn/nogomet/liga-prvaka/video-pogledajte-cudesnu-golcinu-modrica-real-je-bio-na-rubu-ponora-a-onda-se-ukazao-hrvatski-maestro-15026944|website=[[Sportske novosti]]|language=hr-hr|access-date=21 October 2020|archive-date=25 October 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201025162841/https://sportske.jutarnji.hr/sn/nogomet/liga-prvaka/video-pogledajte-cudesnu-golcinu-modrica-real-je-bio-na-rubu-ponora-a-onda-se-ukazao-hrvatski-maestro-15026944|url-status=live}}</ref> The goal made him the fourth player in the history of the club to score in the competition aged 35 or more, alongside [[Alfredo Di Stéfano]], [[Ferenc Puskás]] and [[Francisco Gento]].<ref>{{Cite web|last=Hina|date=21 October 2020|title=Blamaža Reala i senzacija u Madridu! Novi poraz Kraljeva, Modrić zabio jedan od najljepših golova godine!|url=https://sportske.jutarnji.hr/sn/nogomet/liga-prvaka/blamaza-reala-i-senzacija-u-madridu-novi-poraz-kraljeva-modric-zabio-jedan-od-najljepsih-golova-godine-15026914|website=[[Sportske novosti]]|language=hr-hr|access-date=21 October 2020|archive-date=25 October 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201025155928/https://sportske.jutarnji.hr/sn/nogomet/liga-prvaka/blamaza-reala-i-senzacija-u-madridu-novi-poraz-kraljeva-modric-zabio-jedan-od-najljepsih-golova-godine-15026914|url-status=live}}</ref> It was named the Goal of the Week by UEFA.<ref>{{Cite web|date=23 October 2020|title=Video: UEFA je proglasila Modrićev gol najljepšim, pogledajte majstoriju kapetana još jednom|url=https://sportske.jutarnji.hr/sn/nogomet/liga-prvaka/video-uefa-je-proglasila-modricev-gol-najljepsim-pogledajte-majstoriju-kapetana-jos-jednom-15027411|website=[[Sportske novosti]]|language=hr-hr|access-date=23 October 2020|archive-date=23 October 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201023191835/https://sportske.jutarnji.hr/sn/nogomet/liga-prvaka/video-uefa-je-proglasila-modricev-gol-najljepsim-pogledajte-majstoriju-kapetana-jos-jednom-15027411|url-status=live}}</ref> Three days later, he came off the bench to score with ''trivela'' his first ever ''Clásico'' goal, as Real Madrid defeated Barcelona 3–1.<ref>{{cite news|author=Arch Bell|url=https://www.marca.com/en/football/spanish-football/barcelona-vs-r-madrid/cronica/2020/10/24/5f9452b1ca474171108b459b.html|title=Real Madrid rise up in Clasico|date=24 October 2020|work=Marca|location=Spain|access-date=24 October 2020|archive-date=25 October 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201025155938/https://www.marca.com/en/football/spanish-football/barcelona-vs-r-madrid/cronica/2020/10/24/5f9452b1ca474171108b459b.html|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|date=24 October 2020|title=Modrić prvi po ocjenama protiv Barcelone! 'Njegova uloga i važnost u ovoj momčadi je neupitna!'|url=https://sportske.jutarnji.hr/sn/nogomet/primera/modric-prvi-po-ocjenama-protiv-barcelone-njegova-uloga-i-vaznost-u-ovoj-momcadi-je-neupitna-15027643|website=Sportske novosti|language=hr-hr|access-date=24 October 2020|archive-date=25 October 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201025162332/https://sportske.jutarnji.hr/sn/nogomet/primera/modric-prvi-po-ocjenama-protiv-barcelone-njegova-uloga-i-vaznost-u-ovoj-momcadi-je-neupitna-15027643|url-status=live}}</ref> On 25 May 2021, he extended his contract with Real Madrid until 2022.<ref>{{Cite web|date=25 May 2021|title=Official Announcement: Luka Modrić|url=https://www.realmadrid.com/en/news/2021/05/25/official-announcement-luka-modri%C4%87|access-date=25 May 2021|website=Real Madrid CF|archive-date=15 January 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220115140622/https://www.realmadrid.com/en/news/2021/05/25/official-announcement-luka-modri%C4%87|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|date=25 May 2021|title=Modrić: "There's nothing better than playing for Real Madrid"|url=https://www.realmadrid.com/en/news/2021/05/25/modri%C4%87-theres-nothing-better-than-playing-for-real-madrid|access-date=13 April 2022|website=Real Madrid CF|archive-date=13 April 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220413033114/https://www.realmadrid.com/en/news/2021/05/25/modri%C4%87-theres-nothing-better-than-playing-for-real-madrid|url-status=live}}</ref> |
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====2021–present: Fourth La Liga, sixth Champions League and second Copa del Rey title==== |
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[[File:Ofrenda de la Liga y la Champions-56-L.Millán (52109788795).jpg|left|thumb|Modrić in a trophy presentation ceremony in front of [[Virgin of Almudena]] in May 2022|249x249px]] |
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On 24 October 2021 of [[2021–22 Real Madrid CF season|2021–22 season]], Modrić played his 400th game for Real Madrid in a 2–1 ''Clásico'' victory.<ref>{{Cite web|date=26 October 2021|title=Luka proslavio veliki jubilej u Madridu protiv najljućeg rivala: "Zahvalan sam Realu na svemu, ali još nismo gotovi"|url=https://gol.dnevnik.hr/clanak/rubrika/nogomet/luka-proslavio-veliki-jubilej-u-madridu-protiv-najljuceg-rivala-zahvalan-sam-realu-na-svemu-ali-jos-nismo-gotovi---681334.html|access-date=26 October 2021|website=Gol.hr|language=hr|archive-date=26 October 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211026103711/https://gol.dnevnik.hr/clanak/rubrika/nogomet/luka-proslavio-veliki-jubilej-u-madridu-protiv-najljuceg-rivala-zahvalan-sam-realu-na-svemu-ali-jos-nismo-gotovi---681334.html|url-status=live}}</ref> On 30 October, Modrić captained Real Madrid for the first time and assisted for the winning goal, after [[Marcelo (footballer, born 1988)|Marcelo]] had given him the armband upon being substituted off in the 2–1 victory over [[Elche CF|Elche]].<ref>{{Cite web|last=Zobec|first=Petar|date=30 October 2021|title=Video: Ma to može samo maestro Luka! Pogledajte nestvarnu asistenciju kapetana za pobjedu Reala|url=https://sportske.jutarnji.hr/sn/nogomet/primera/video-ma-to-moze-samo-maestro-luka-pogledajte-nestvarnu-asistenciju-kapetana-za-pobjedu-reala-15114616|access-date=30 October 2021|website=Sportske novosti|language=hr|archive-date=12 November 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211112214707/https://sportske.jutarnji.hr/sn/nogomet/primera/video-ma-to-moze-samo-maestro-luka-pogledajte-nestvarnu-asistenciju-kapetana-za-pobjedu-reala-15114616|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|date=30 October 2021|title=Luka Modrić prvi put u karijeri bio je kapetan Real Madrida, iako su mnogi tvrdili da to nikad neće uspjeti|url=https://net.hr/sport/nogomet/luka-modric-danas-je-prvi-put-u-karijeri-bio-kapetan-real-madrida-542572f4-3989-11ec-bf4d-56192db521b7|access-date=30 October 2021|website=Net.hr|language=hr|archive-date=4 November 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211104063538/https://net.hr/sport/nogomet/luka-modric-danas-je-prvi-put-u-karijeri-bio-kapetan-real-madrida-542572f4-3989-11ec-bf4d-56192db521b7|url-status=live}}</ref> On 7 December 2021, he played his 100th Champions League game and was named Man of the Match in a 2–0 victory over Inter Milan.<ref>{{Cite web|date=7 December 2021|title=Modrić claims Man-of-the-Match award on 100th Champions League appearance|url=https://www.realmadrid.com/en/news/2021/12/07/modri%C4%87-claims-man-of-the-match-award-on-100th-champions-league-appearance|access-date=13 April 2022|website=Real Madrid CF|archive-date=14 December 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211214061021/https://www.realmadrid.com/en/news/2021/12/07/modri%C4%87-claims-man-of-the-match-award-on-100th-champions-league-appearance|url-status=live}}</ref> On 16 January 2022, he scored the first goal in the [[2022 Supercopa de España Final]] and was named Man of the Match, as Real Madrid defeated Athletic Bilbao 2–0.<ref>{{Cite web|date=16 January 2022|title=Modrić named man of the match in the Spanish Super Cup final|url=https://www.realmadrid.com/en/news/2022/01/16/modri%C4%87-named-man-of-the-match-in-the-spanish-super-cup-final|access-date=13 April 2022|website=Real Madrid CF|archive-date=19 January 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220119031602/https://www.realmadrid.com/en/news/2022/01/16/modri%C4%87-named-man-of-the-match-in-the-spanish-super-cup-final|url-status=live}}</ref> The goal made him the oldest goalscorer in the history of [[Supercopa de España|the competition]].<ref>{{Cite web|date=16 January 2022|title=Real je pobijedio Bilbao i osvojio Superkup, a Modrić je golčinom okrunio sjajnu utakmicu|url=https://telesport.telegram.hr/na-prvu/real-je-pobijedio-bilbao-i-osvojio-superkup-a-modric-je-golcinom-okrunio-sjajnu-utakmicu/|access-date=16 January 2022|website=Telesport|language=hr|archive-date=18 January 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220118204623/https://telesport.telegram.hr/na-prvu/real-je-pobijedio-bilbao-i-osvojio-superkup-a-modric-je-golcinom-okrunio-sjajnu-utakmicu/|url-status=live}}</ref> On 5 March, Modrić assisted and scored from outside of the box in a 4–1 victory over Real Socidedad.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Hincks|first=Michael|date=9 March 2022|title=Champions League: All eyes on Luka Modric, Real Madrid's vital cog for PSG clash amid suspensions and injuries|url=https://www.eurosport.com/football/champions-league/2021-2022/champions-league-all-eyes-on-luka-modric-real-madrids-vital-cog-for-psg-clash-amid-suspensions-and-i_sto8834274/story.shtml|website=Eurosport|access-date=13 April 2022|archive-date=30 October 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030214040/https://www.eurosport.com/geoblocking.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref> On 6 and 12 April, Modrić assisted in both legs of Champions League [[2021–22 UEFA Champions League knockout phase#Quarter-finals|quarter-finals]] 5–4 aggregate victory against Chelsea. Praised for attacking and defensive performances in both games,<ref>{{Cite web|last=Steinberg|first=Jacob|date=6 April 2022|title=Karim Benzema hat-trick for Real Madrid puts Chelsea on brink of exit|url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2022/apr/06/chelsea-real-madrid-champions-league-quarter-final-first-leg-match-report|website=[[The Guardian]]|access-date=13 April 2022|archive-date=13 April 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220413172522/https://www.theguardian.com/football/2022/apr/06/chelsea-real-madrid-champions-league-quarter-final-first-leg-match-report|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|last=May|first=Sam|date=12 April 2022|title=Assist King: Luka Modric provides outrageous assist with outside of the boot as Real Madrid man celebrates 100th Champions League appearance|url=https://talksport.com/football/1085060/real-madrid-midfielder-modric-provides-outrageous-assist/|website=[[Talksport]]|access-date=13 April 2022|archive-date=12 April 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220412221548/https://talksport.com/football/1085060/real-madrid-midfielder-modric-provides-outrageous-assist/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=13 April 2022 |title=Modrić je zaludio svijet, govore mu da je najbolji u povijesti, a on poslao kratku, ali jaku poruku |url=https://gol.dnevnik.hr/clanak/rubrika/nogomet/luka-modric-zaludio-svijet-nakon-utakmice-u-ligi-prvaka---719471.html |access-date=13 April 2022 |website=[[Nova TV (Croatia)|Gol.hr]] |language=hr |archive-date=13 April 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220413123026/https://gol.dnevnik.hr/clanak/rubrika/nogomet/luka-modric-zaludio-svijet-nakon-utakmice-u-ligi-prvaka---719471.html |url-status=live }}</ref> because of a long-range ''trivela'' assist for [[Rodrygo]] in the crucial moment of the second leg was named Man of the Match as well as voted Player of the Week by UEFA.<ref>{{Cite web|date=12 April 2022|title=Real Madrid 2–3 Chelsea, aet (agg 5–4): Benzema takes hosts through after holders mount stunning comeback|url=https://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/news/0274-14e4d0f0f820-0ebe4b5ae427-1000--real-madrid-2-3-chelsea-aet-agg-5-4-benzema-takes-hosts-through/|website=[[UEFA]]|access-date=13 April 2022|archive-date=17 April 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220417134302/https://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/news/0274-14e4d0f0f820-0ebe4b5ae427-1000--real-madrid-2-3-chelsea-aet-agg-5-4-benzema-takes-hosts-through/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|date=14 April 2022|title=Modrić voted Champions League player of the week|url=https://www.realmadrid.com/en/news/2022/04/14/modri%C4%87-voted-champions-league-player-of-the-week|website=realmadrid.com|access-date=11 May 2022|archive-date=11 May 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220511172443/https://www.realmadrid.com/en/news/2022/04/14/modri%C4%87-voted-champions-league-player-of-the-week|url-status=live}}</ref> His assist to Rodrygo has been called the "pass of the decade" by [[Ally McCoist]],<ref>{{Cite web |last=May |first=Sam |date=13 April 2022 |title='Pass of the decade' – Modric assist hailed and Maddison points out his 'king' claim |url=https://talksport.com/football/1085060/luka-modric-assist-chelsea-champions-league-stats-real-madrid/ |access-date=21 November 2023 |website=talkSPORT |archive-date=21 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231121004240/https://talksport.com/football/1085060/luka-modric-assist-chelsea-champions-league-stats-real-madrid/ |url-status=live }}</ref> and as "absolutely perfect, and it was just gorgeous to watch" by [[Thierry Henry]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Gonzalez |first=Roger |date=12 April 2022 |title=Thierry Henry: Luka Modric Champions League assist for Real Madrid against Chelsea 'absolutely perfect' |url=https://www.cbssports.com/soccer/news/thierry-henry-luka-modric-champions-league-assist-for-real-madrid-against-chelsea-absolutely-perfect/amp/ |access-date=21 November 2023 |website=www.cbssports.com |archive-date=21 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231121004238/https://www.cbssports.com/soccer/news/thierry-henry-luka-modric-champions-league-assist-for-real-madrid-against-chelsea-absolutely-perfect/amp/ |url-status=live }}</ref> He was a regular starter on 30 April when Real Madrid won their 35th and his 3rd Spanish title,<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/61284264 |title=Real Madrid 4–0 Espanyol |website=BBC Sport |date=30 April 2022 |access-date=11 May 2022 |archive-date=4 May 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220504095803/https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/61284264 |url-status=live }}</ref> on 4 May when Real Madrid won in extra time in the second leg against Manchester City, and on 28 May when he won his 5th title in the [[2022 UEFA Champions League Final|final of Champions League]].<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2022/may/04/real-madrid-manchester-city-champions-league-semi-final-second-leg-match-report |title=Real Madrid in final after Rodrygo and Karim Benzema stun Manchester City |website=The Guardian |date=4 May 2022 |access-date=11 May 2022 |archive-date=11 May 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220511213517/https://www.theguardian.com/football/2022/may/04/real-madrid-manchester-city-champions-league-semi-final-second-leg-match-report |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/61609200 |title=Champions League agony for Liverpool as Real win |website=BBC |date=28 May 2022 |access-date=28 May 2022 |archive-date=10 June 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230610201012/https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/61609200 |url-status=live }}</ref> For the sixth time in his career, he was included in the UEFA Champions League Squad of the Season.<ref name="CL 2021/22 Team"/> On 8 June 2022, he renewed his contract until 2023.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Official Announcement: Modrić|url=https://www.realmadrid.com/en/news/2022/06/08/official-announcement-modri%C4%87|access-date=8 June 2022|publisher=Real Madrid CF|archive-date=28 June 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220628084841/https://www.realmadrid.com/en/news/2022/06/08/official-announcement-modri%C4%87|url-status=live}}</ref> |
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On 20 August 2022, Modrić landed his first goal and assist of the [[2022–23 Real Madrid CF season|season]] in a 4–1 away victory over Celta Vigo in a [[La Liga]] fixture.<ref>{{Cite news|author=Mario Cortegana|title=Modric: The eternal legend|url=https://www.marca.com/en/football/real-madrid/2022/08/21/630249a6ca4741007b8b4568.html|date=21 August 2022|work=Marca|access-date=13 September 2022|archive-date=12 September 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220912231817/https://www.marca.com/en/football/real-madrid/2022/08/21/630249a6ca4741007b8b4568.html|url-status=live}}</ref> On 6 September he scored in his first [[2022–23 UEFA Champions League group stage#Celtic v Real Madrid|Champions League game of the season]] in a 3–0 away victory against [[Celtic F.C.|Celtic]], becoming the eighth Real Madrid player with 100 appearances in the competition.<ref>{{Cite news|author=S. Siguero|date=5 September 2022|title=Modric, centenario y el espejo de Gento|url=https://www.marca.com/futbol/real-madrid/2022/09/05/6314e64aca474128688b4571.html|work=Marca|access-date=13 September 2022|language=es|archive-date=12 September 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220912231814/https://www.marca.com/futbol/real-madrid/2022/09/05/6314e64aca474128688b4571.html|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|date=6 September 2022|title=Real Madrid sink Celtic with dominant second-half display|url=https://www.marca.com/en/football/champions-league/2022/09/06/6317b47122601d47758b4590.html|work=Marca|access-date=13 September 2022|archive-date=12 September 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220912231822/https://www.marca.com/en/football/champions-league/2022/09/06/6317b47122601d47758b4590.html|url-status=live}}</ref> On 11 September, he became the third Real Madrid player after Puskás and [[Francisco Buyo]] to play 100 games while over 35 years of age.<ref>{{Cite news|author=J. L. Calderón|date=11 September 2022|title=El centenario más increíble de Modric|url=https://www.marca.com/futbol/real-madrid/2022/09/11/631b7dfc268e3e45758b4593.html|work=Marca|language=es|access-date=13 September 2022|archive-date=12 September 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220912231813/https://www.marca.com/futbol/real-madrid/2022/09/11/631b7dfc268e3e45758b4593.html|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|date=11 September 2022|title=Real Madrid come from behind against Mallorca to make it five wins on the trot|url=https://www.marca.com/en/football/spanish-football/2022/09/11/631e015722601dbd698b45c5.html|work=Marca|access-date=13 September 2022|archive-date=13 September 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220913003048/https://www.marca.com/en/football/spanish-football/2022/09/11/631e015722601dbd698b45c5.html|url-status=live}}</ref> In February 2023, Modrić was included for the sixth time in the [[The Best FIFA Football Awards 2022#FIFA FIFPRO Men's World 11|FIFA FIFPro World XI]].<ref name="FIFPro6">{{cite web|url=https://www.fifa.com/fifaplus/en/articles/fifpro-mens-world-11-2022-benzema-cancelo-casemiro-courtois-de-bruyne-haaland-hakimi-mbappe-messi-modric-van-dijk|title=Messi makes World 11 history as Benzema earns maiden inclusion|website=FIFA.com|publisher=Fédération Internationale de Football Association|date=27 February 2023|access-date=27 February 2023|archive-date=27 February 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230227214011/https://www.fifa.com/fifaplus/en/articles/fifpro-mens-world-11-2022-benzema-cancelo-casemiro-courtois-de-bruyne-haaland-hakimi-mbappe-messi-modric-van-dijk|url-status=live}}</ref> On 6 May, he played as a second-half substitute in a 2–1 win over [[CA Osasuna|Osasuna]] in the [[2023 Copa del Rey final|Copa del Rey final]], to achieve his second trophy in that tournament.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.realmadrid.com/en/news/2023/05/21/the-twentieth-copa-del-rey#igalleryPop |title=The twentieth Copa del Rey |publisher=Real Madrid |date=6 May 2023 |access-date=28 October 2023 |archive-date=21 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231021223757/https://www.realmadrid.com/en/news/2023/05/21/the-twentieth-copa-del-rey#igalleryPop |url-status=live }}</ref> In June, he extended his contract until 2024.<ref>{{cite news|title=Official Announcement: Modrić|url=https://www.realmadrid.com/en/news/2023/06/26/official-announcement-modric|publisher=Real Madrid CF|date=26 June 2023|access-date=26 June 2023|archive-date=26 June 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230626104414/https://www.realmadrid.com/en/news/2023/06/26/official-announcement-modric|url-status=live}}</ref> |
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During the [[2023–24 Real Madrid CF season|2023–24 season]], with the departure of Benzema, Modrić became vice-captain of the team,<ref>{{Cite news|date=28 June 2023|title=The new Real Madrid captains: Nacho, Modric, Carvajal and Kroos|url=https://www.marca.com/en/football/real-madrid/2023/06/28/649c902ee2704e2ab58b45af.html|work=Marca|access-date=7 May 2024|archive-date=7 May 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240507175104/https://www.marca.com/en/football/real-madrid/2023/06/28/649c902ee2704e2ab58b45af.html|url-status=live}}</ref> but also started to receive less playing time in the starting eleven due to change in formation and competition with younger players like [[Federico Valverde]], [[Jude Bellingham]], [[Eduardo Camavinga]], [[Aurélien Tchouaméni]] and [[Dani Ceballos]].<ref>{{Cite news|date=27 August 2023|title=Ancelotti's talk with Kroos and Modric is about respect and clarity|url=https://www.marca.com/en/football/real-madrid/2023/08/27/64eb86a5ca47414c698b4576.html|work=Marca|access-date=7 May 2024|archive-date=7 May 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240507175105/https://www.marca.com/en/football/real-madrid/2023/08/27/64eb86a5ca47414c698b4576.html|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|last=Hunter|first=Graham|date=10 October 2023|title=Why Luka Modric's new Real Madrid role may be a masterstroke|url=https://www.espn.com/soccer/story/_/id/38615540/luka-modric-real-madrid-role-masterstroke|work=ESPN|access-date=7 May 2024|archive-date=19 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240619170923/https://www.espn.com/soccer/story/_/id/38615540/luka-modric-real-madrid-role-masterstroke|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|date=26 February 2024|title=Real boss Ancelotti understands Modric's frustration over lack of playing time|url=https://www.reuters.com/sports/soccer/real-boss-ancelotti-understands-modrics-frustration-over-lack-playing-time-2024-02-26/|work=Reuters|access-date=7 May 2024}}</ref> On 28 October, Modrić came on as a second-half substitute and made his 500th appearance for Real Madrid in all competitions in a 2–1 away win against Barcelona, to which he contributed with an assist to the last-minute winning goal by Bellingham.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.realmadrid.com/en/news/2023/10/28/modric-500-real-madrid-appearances-im-very-proud-to-reach-this-number-at-the-biggest-club-in-history |title=Modrić: 500 Real Madrid appearances: "I'm very proud to reach this number at the biggest club in history" |publisher=Real Madrid |date=28 October 2023 |access-date=28 October 2023 |archive-date=28 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231028183853/https://www.realmadrid.com/en/news/2023/10/28/modric-500-real-madrid-appearances-im-very-proud-to-reach-this-number-at-the-biggest-club-in-history |url-status=live }}</ref> On 27 November, in a 3–0 away win against [[Cádiz CF|Cádiz]], Modrić set the record for most club appearances after 35 years old, with 161 appearances, breaking the previous record he held with [[Francisco Buyo|Paco Buyo]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Magomedova |first=Marina |date=27 November 2023 |title=Luka Modric Sets Real Madrid Record For Matches Played After 35 |url=https://www.telecomasia.net/news/football/luka-modric-sets-real-madrid-record-for-matches-played-after-35/ |access-date=27 January 2024 |website=www.telecomasia.net |language=en |archive-date=27 January 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240127050946/https://www.telecomasia.net/news/football/luka-modric-sets-real-madrid-record-for-matches-played-after-35/ |url-status=live }}</ref> On 30 April 2024, Modrić came on as a late substitute in the first match of the Champions League semi-final against Bayern Munich and, at the age of 38 years and 234 days, broke the record for the oldest Real Madrid player to make an appearance in the tournament, beating Puskás by five days.<ref>{{Cite web |date=30 April 2024 |title=Luka Modric Breaks Another Record with Real Madrid |url=https://www.beinsports.com/en-us/soccer/uefa-champions-league/articles-video/luka-modric-breaks-another-record-with-real-madrid-2024-04-30 |access-date=30 April 2024 |publisher=beIN SPORTS |language=en |archive-date=1 May 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240501000101/https://www.beinsports.com/en-us/soccer/uefa-champions-league/articles-video/luka-modric-breaks-another-record-with-real-madrid-2024-04-30 |url-status=live }}</ref> A few days later, on 4 May, he became the oldest player to feature in La Liga for Real Madrid, at the age of 38 years and 238 days, breaking another record of Puskás, in a 3–0 win against Cádiz.<ref>{{Cite web |date=4 May 2024 |title=Modric Becomes the Oldest Player to Play in La Liga for Real Madrid |url=https://www.beinsports.com/en-us/soccer/articles-video/modric-becomes-the-oldest-player-to-play-in-la-liga-for-real-madrid-2024-05-04 |access-date=4 May 2024 |publisher=beIN SPORTS |language=en |archive-date=12 June 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240612175244/https://www.beinsports.com/en-us/soccer/articles-video/modric-becomes-the-oldest-player-to-play-in-la-liga-for-real-madrid-2024-05-04 |url-status=live }}</ref> Furthermore, he clinched his fourth [[2023–24 La Liga|La Liga]] title with Real Madrid following that victory, thus matching Marcelo, Karim Benzema and [[Nacho (footballer, born 1990)|Nacho]]'s record as the club's most decorated player with 25 trophies.<ref>{{cite web |date=4 May 2024 |title=Nacho and Modrić both have 25 titles with Real Madrid |url=https://www.realmadrid.com/en-US/news/football/first-team/latest-news/nacho-y-modric-25-titulos-con-el-real-madrid-04-05-2024 |access-date=4 May 2024 |publisher=Real Madrid CF |archive-date=7 May 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240507164131/https://www.realmadrid.com/en-US/news/football/first-team/latest-news/nacho-y-modric-25-titulos-con-el-real-madrid-04-05-2024 |url-status=live }}</ref> He extended his record with his 26th trophy in the [[2024 UEFA Champions League final|Champions League final]], following a 2–0 victory against Borussia Dortmund, same as for Nacho.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.realmadrid.com/en-US/news/football/first-team/latest-news/nacho-y-modric-25-titulos-con-el-real-madrid-04-05-2024 |title=Nacho and Modrić, 26 trophies with Real Madrid |publisher=Real Madrid CF |date=1 June 2024 |access-date=7 May 2024 |archive-date=7 May 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240507164131/https://www.realmadrid.com/en-US/news/football/first-team/latest-news/nacho-y-modric-25-titulos-con-el-real-madrid-04-05-2024 |url-status=live }}</ref> He also became the first player to win six finals in the competition, along with [[Dani Carvajal]].<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/news/0252-0e98c715bb79-dea77f56e2bd-1000--champions-league-final-records-and-statistics/ |title=Champions League final records and statistics |publisher=UEFA |date=1 June 2024 |access-date=1 June 2024 |archive-date=29 March 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240329010357/https://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/news/0252-0e98c715bb79-dea77f56e2bd-1000--champions-league-final-records-and-statistics/ |url-status=live }}</ref> |
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On 17 July 2024, Modrić extended his contract until 2025 and becoming captain of the team following the departure of Nacho.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Millar|first=Colin|title=Luka Modric signs new one-year Real Madrid contract|url=https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5243327/2024/07/17/luka-modric-real-madrid-contract-new/|publisher=The Athletic|date=17 July 2024|access-date=17 July 2024}}</ref> |
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Modrić started in Real Madrid's home game against their league rivals, Barcelona, on 2 March 2013. He assisted teammate, [[Sergio Ramos]], from a corner kick to score the winning goal in the 82nd minute, giving Real victory in the [[El Clásico]] derby. Three days later, on 5 March, Modrić came on as a second half substitute during the decisive Champions League knockout leg against 10 men [[Manchester United F.C.|Manchester United]] at [[Old Trafford]]. With Madrid behind by a goal, he levelled the game with a long-range shot 25-yards out and went on to play a key role in the rest of the game which Real Madrid won 2–1, advancing them to the quarter-finals 3–2 on aggregate.<ref>{{cite web| url=http://www.fifa.com/worldfootball/clubfootball/news/newsid=2025338.html| title=Mourinho: Modric made the difference| date=2013-03-06| publisher=fifa.com| accessdate=2013-03-18}}</ref><ref>{{cite web| url=http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/competitions/champions-league/9910683/Manchester-United-v-Real-Madrid-five-things-we-learnt-from-the-Champions-League-tie-at-Old-Trafford.html| title=Manchester United v Real Madrid: five things we learnt from the Champions League tie at Old Trafford| last=Burt| first=Jason| date=2013-03-05| work=The Telegraph| accessdate=2013-03-18}}</ref><ref>{{cite web| url=http://www.marca.com/2013/03/05/futbol/manchester-madrid/1362520335.html| title=Luka Modric ya no tiene precio| date=2013-03-06| author=J. I. García-Ochoa| publisher=marca.com| accessdate=2013-05-14}}</ref> On 16 March, he replicated this performance against [[Real Mallorca]], giving Real Madrid the lead with a long range volley from 30 yards in a game which his team went on to win 5–2.<ref>{{cite news| url=http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/2013/mar/17/real-madrid-real-mallorca-la-liga| title=Real Madrid recover against Real Mallorca with Luka Modric screamer| agency=Associated Press| date=2013-03-17| work=The Guardian| accessdate=2013-03-18}}</ref><ref>{{cite web| url=http://www.goal.com/en-us/match/85503/real-madrid-vs-mallorca/report| title=Real Madrid 5–2 Mallorca: Modric rocket highlight of Blancos' comeback victory| last=Sinanan| first=Keeghann| date=2013-03-17| publisher=goal.com| accessdate=2013-03-18}}</ref> Modrić played as a starter in both Champions League semi-final games against [[Borussia Dortmund]]. In the first leg on April 24, he played in the attacking midfield position where he didn't manage to influence the game and eventually, the team lost 4–1, while on the April 30, in the second leg 2–0 victory, he played as the deep-lying playmaker providing passes for the attackers and creating several opportunities, being among the best rated players that night.<ref>{{cite web| url=http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/2013/apr/30/real-madrid-dortmund-tactical-analysis| title=How Mourinho's subs helped Real score two and almost scrape through| last=Cox| first=Michael| date=2013-05-01| work=guardian.co.uk| accessdate=2013-05-14}}</ref><ref>{{cite web| url=http://www.marca.com/debate/2013/04/3458/pinta-votaciones3458.html| title=El uno a uno del Real Madrid| date=2013-05-01| publisher=marca.com| accessdate=2013-05-14}}</ref><ref>{{cite web| url=http://www.goal.com/en-us/match/106423/real-madrid-vs-borussia-dortmund/player-ratings| title=Player Ratings: Real Madrid 2–0 Borussia Dortmund (Agg 3–4)| date=2013-05-01| publisher=goal.com| accessdate=2013-05-14}}</ref><ref>{{cite web| url=http://www.whoscored.com/Matches/709898/Live/Europe-UEFA-Champions-League-2012-2013-Real-Madrid-Borussia-Dortmund| title=Real Madrid-Borussia Dortmund Live| date=2013-05-01| publisher=whoscored.com| accessdate=2013-05-14}}</ref> From March 2013, Modrić's form and influence in the midfield continued to grow, distinguishing himself as a player with most passes completed on his team.<ref>{{cite web| url=http://bleacherreport.com/articles/1628957-luka-modric-is-beginning-to-look-like-a-real-madrid-player-after-difficult-year| title=Luka Modric Is Beginning to Look Like a Real Madrid Player After Difficult Year| last=Mardsen| first=Samuel| date=2013-05-04| work=bleacherreport| accessdate=2013-05-14}}</ref> On May 8, he assisted from the corner for the first goal, and scored the fourth goal in a 6–2 victory over [[CD Málaga]].<ref>{{cite web| url=http://bleacherreport.com/articles/1633654-real-madrid-6-2-malaga-what-we-learned-from-los-blancos-big-win/page/2| title=Real Madrid 6–2 Malaga: What We Learned from Los Blancos' Big Win| last=Atkinson| first=Tre'| date=2013-05-08| work=bleacherreport| accessdate=2013-05-14}}</ref><ref>{{cite web| url=http://bleacherreport.com/articles/1634046-rating-the-real-madrid-players-in-their-6-2-win-against-malaga/page/3| title=Rating the Real Madrid Players in Their 6–2 Win Against Malaga| last=Pettigrove| first=Jason| date=2013-05-09| work=bleacherreport| accessdate=2013-05-14}}</ref><ref>{{cite web| url=http://www.realmadrid.com/cs/Satellite/en/Actualidad_Primer_Equipo_en/1330147212128/noticia/Noticia/Real_Madrid_surpassed_5,500_goals_in_La_Liga_against_Malaga.htm| title=Real Madrid surpassed 5,500 goals in La Liga against Malaga| last=Jabalquinto| first=Diego| date=2013-05-09| work=realmadrid.com| accessdate=2013-05-14}}</ref> |
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==International career== |
==International career== |
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Modrić |
Modrić began his international career at youth level, playing for the Croatian [[Croatia national under-15 football team|under-15]], [[Croatia national under-17 football team|under-17]], [[Croatia national under-18 football team|under-18]], [[Croatia national under-19 football team|under-19]] and [[Croatia national under-21 football team|under-21]] teams.<ref name="Mid" /> He debuted in March 2001 for the under-15 team coached by [[Martin Novoselac]], but nevertheless his talent and psychological maturity, he did not become a regular starter and leading player until physically strengthened and debuted for under-18. Novoselac considers him as a model for all young players because is a result of a gradual and continuous work and effort, as well as talent.{{sfn|Azpitarte|Puertas|2016|p=44–45}} Modrić made his full international debut for [[Croatia national football team|Croatia]] on 1 March 2006 in a friendly match against [[Argentina national football team|Argentina]] in [[Basel]], which Croatia won 3–2.<ref name="Mid" /> |
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===2006–2008: First major tournaments=== |
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===2006 World Cup=== |
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Modrić made two appearances at the [[2006 FIFA World Cup]] finals as a substitute in the group fixtures against [[Japan national football team|Japan]]<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.nogometni-magazin.com/sp2006-281d.shtml |title=Japan 0–0 Hrvatska: Neiskorišteni penal Srne i manjak sreće u završnici |trans-title=Japan 0–0 Croatia: Unconverted penalty by Srna and lack of luck in the final |last=Miladin |first=Neven |date=18 June 2006 |publisher=Nogometni-magazin |access-date=20 January 2016 |language=hr |archive-date=22 October 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181022140256/http://www.nogometni-magazin.com/sp2006-281d.shtml |url-status=live }}</ref> and [[Australia men's national soccer team|Australia]].<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.nogometni-magazin.com/sp2006-342d.shtml |title=Hrvatska 2–2 Australija: Dvaput vodili i ispali sa SP-a |trans-title=Croatia 2–2 Australia: Twice led and dropped from the World Cup |last=Miladin |first=Neven |date=22 June 2006 |publisher=Nogometni-magazin |access-date=20 January 2016 |language=hr |archive-date=4 October 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181004152624/http://www.nogometni-magazin.com/sp2006-342d.shtml |url-status=live }}</ref> With the appointment of new manager Slaven Bilić, Modrić earned greater recognition at international level; he scored his first goal in Croatia's 2–0 friendly win over [[2006 FIFA World Cup Final|world champions]] Italy on 16 August 2006 in [[Livorno]].<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.jutarnji.hr/italija---hrvatska-0-2--slaven-bilic-startao-pobjedom/151222/ |title=Italija – Hrvatska 0–2: Slaven Bilić startao pobjedom |trans-title=Italy – Croatia 0–2: Slaven Bilic started with win |date=16 August 2006 |publisher=Jutarnji list |access-date=20 January 2016 |language=hr |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160222204206/http://www.jutarnji.hr/italija---hrvatska-0-2--slaven-bilic-startao-pobjedom/151222/ |archive-date=22 February 2016 }}</ref> |
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At the [[2006 FIFA World Cup]] finals, he made two appearances as a substitute in the group fixtures against [[Japan national football team|Japan]] and [[Australia national football team|Australia]]. With the appointment of new manager [[Slaven Bilić]], Modrić earned greater recognition at international level, scoring his first goal in Croatia's 2–0 friendly win over [[Italy national football team|Italy]] on 16 August 2006 in [[Livorno]]. His performances ensured a regular place in the international side, and he gave an impressive showing in Croatia's successful [[UEFA Euro 2008 qualifying|Euro 2008 qualifying campaign]], which recorded home and away victories against [[England national football team|England]]. |
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Modrić's performances ensured a regular place in the international side and he gave a successful showing in Croatia's [[UEFA Euro 2008 qualifying Group E|UEFA Euro 2008 qualifying campaign]], which included home and away victories against [[England national football team|England]].<ref>{{cite news |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/internationals/6035559.stm |title=Croatia 2–0 England |last=McNulty |first=Phil |date=11 October 2006 |work=BBC Sport |access-date=20 January 2016 |archive-date=23 June 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180623171542/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/internationals/6035559.stm |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/internationals/7103110.stm |title=England 2–3 Croatia |last=Stevenson |first=Jonathan |date=21 November 2007 |work=BBC Sport |access-date=20 January 2016 |archive-date=12 June 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180612224702/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/internationals/7103110.stm |url-status=live }}</ref> As a young midfielder, much was expected of Modrić; he was often dubbed "the Croatian Cruyff".<ref name="Dutch"/><ref name="CruyffMarca">{{Cite news|url=http://www.marca.com/en/football/real-madrid/2016/04/01/56fe4a6746163f73688b45bb.html|title=Modric aiming to emulate Barcelona legend Cruyff|last=Cerezo|first=Hugo|date=1 April 2016|work=MARCA English|access-date=6 July 2018|archive-date=8 July 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180708015612/http://www.marca.com/en/football/real-madrid/2016/04/01/56fe4a6746163f73688b45bb.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Modrić scored Croatia's first goal of [[UEFA Euro 2008|Euro 2008]], converting a penalty in the fourth minute of their 1–0 victory against hosts [[Austria national football team|Austria]] on 8 June 2008 and becoming the team's youngest ever goalscorer at the [[UEFA European Championship|European Championships]] (aged 22 years and 273 days).<ref>{{cite news |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/euro_2008/7363048.stm |title=Austria 0–1 Croatia |last=Ian |first=Hughes |date=8 June 2008 |work=BBC Sport |access-date=8 June 2008 |archive-date=30 May 2008 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080530173449/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/euro_2008/7363048.stm |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name=":1" /> It was also the fastest penalty ever awarded and scored in the European Championships history.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.euro2008.uefa.com/tournament/matches/match=300684/index.html |title=Modrić penalty undoes gutsy Austria |first=Trevor |last=Haylett |date=8 June 2012 |work=UEFA |access-date=10 June 2008 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080530015222/http://www.euro2008.uefa.com/tournament/matches/match=300684/index.html |archive-date=30 May 2008 }}</ref> He continued to impress at the tournament and was named [[UEFA]] [[Man of the Match]] in Croatia's next match when they defeated one of the pre-tournament favourites and eventual [[UEFA Euro 2008 Final|finalists]] [[German national football team|Germany]].<ref name="modricman">{{cite web |url=http://www.uefa.com/memberassociations/news/newsid=711505.html |title=Croatia 2–1 Germany |date=12 June 2008 |work=UEFA |access-date=20 January 2016 |archive-date=5 June 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160605055314/http://www.uefa.com/memberassociations/news/newsid=711505.html |url-status=live }}</ref> In the quarter-final against [[Turkey national football team|Turkey]], Modrić took advantage of a mistake by veteran Turkish goalkeeper [[Rüştü Reçber]], and crossed to teammate [[Ivan Klasnić]] for the first goal of the match with one minute of extra time remaining, but [[Semih Şentürk]] almost immediately equalised for Turkey. In the ensuing penalty shootout, Modrić's kick was off-target and he failed to score the first penalty and Turkey won the shootout 3–1.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.uefa.com/uefaeuro/season=2008/matches/round=15094/match=301700/postmatch/report/index.html |title=Turkey triumph in Vienna shoot-out |first=Michael |last=Harrold |date=21 June 2008 |work=UEFA |access-date=20 January 2016 |archive-date=15 July 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180715111452/https://www.uefa.com/uefaeuro/season=2008/matches/round=15094/match=301700/postmatch/report/index.html |url-status=live }}</ref> At the end of the competition, Modrić was included in the [[UEFA Euro 2008#UEFA Team of the Tournament|UEFA Team of the Tournament]], becoming only the second Croatian to achieve this honour after [[Davor Šuker]].<ref name="Dalje 2008">{{cite web |url=http://dalje.com/en-sports/luka-modric-in-euros-best-team-xavi-best-player/160205 |title=Luka Modric In EURO's Best Team, Xavi Best Player |date=30 June 2008 |work=dalje.com |publisher=Kontineo oglašavanje |access-date=1 July 2009 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110522151147/http://dalje.com/en-sports/luka-modric-in-euros-best-team-xavi-best-player/160205 |archive-date=22 May 2011 }}</ref> |
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[[File:Luka Modric (L), João Moutinho (R) - Croatia vs. Portugal, 10th June 2013.jpg|thumb|right|275px|Modrić, playing for Croatia in 2013.]] |
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===Euro 2008=== |
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Much was expected of the young midfielder often dubbed "the Croatian [[Johan Cruyff|Cruyff]]".<ref>{{cite news| url=http://bleacherreport.com/articles/519963-tottenham-hotspur-luka-modric-the-croatian-cruyff| title=Tottenham Hotspur's Luka Modric: The EPL's Croatian Cruyff| date=2010-11-17| work=[[Bleacher Report]]| accessdate=2012-08-28}}</ref> Modrić scored Croatia's first goal of [[UEFA Euro 2008|Euro 2008]], converting a penalty in the fourth minute of their 1–0 victory against [[Austria national football team|Austria]] on 8 June 2008.<ref>{{cite news| url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/euro_2008/7363048.stm| title=Austria 0–1 Croatia| last=Ian| first=Hughes| date=2008-06-08| publisher=''BBC Sport''| accessdate=2008-06-08}}</ref> It was the fastest penalty ever awarded and scored in European Championship history.<ref>{{cite news| url=http://www.euro2008.uefa.com/tournament/matches/match=300684/index.html| title=Modrić penalty undoes gutsy Austria| author=Trevor Haylett| date=2008-06-08| publisher=''Uefa.com''| accessdate=2008-06-10}}</ref> He continued to impress at the tournament and was named ''[[UEFA]] [[Man of the Match]]'' in their next game when Croatia defeated one of the pre-tournament favorites and eventual finalists [[German national football team|Germany]].<ref name="modricman">{{cite web| url=http://www.euro2008.uefa.com/news/kind=1/newsid=715015.html| title=Modrić and Croatia rise to occasion| work=''uefa/euro2008.com''| accessdate=2008-08-07}}</ref><ref>{{cite web| url=http://espnfc.com/news/story?id=546239&cc=5739| title=Beckenbauer baffled by woeful Germany| date=2008-06-13| publisher=ESPN Internet Ventures| work=soccernet.espn.go.com}}</ref> In the quarter-final against [[Turkey national football team|Turkey]], Modrić took advantage of a mistake by veteran Turkish goalkeeper [[Rüştü Reçber]], and crossed to teammate [[Ivan Klasnić]] for the first goal of the game with only a minute remaining of extra time. [[Semih Şentürk]], however, equalised for Turkey almost immediately. In the ensuing [[Penalty shootout (association football)|penalty shootout]], Modrić failed to score the first penalty with his off-target kick. Turkey went on to win the shootout 3–1. At the end of the competition, Modrić was included in the ''UEFA Team of the Tournament'', becoming only the second Croatian to ever achieve this honour, the first being [[Davor Šuker]].<ref>{{cite web| url=http://dalje.com/en-sports/luka-modric-in-euros-best-team-xavi-best-player/160205| title=Luka Modric In EURO`s Best Team, Xavi Best Player| date=2009-06-30| publisher=Kontineo oglašavanje| work=dalje.com| accessdate=2009-07-01}}</ref> |
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===2008–2016: Subsequent struggles=== |
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===Euro 2012=== |
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In the [[2010 FIFA World Cup qualification – UEFA Group 6|2010 World Cup qualifiers]], Modrić scored three goals, against [[Kazakhstan national football team|Kazakhstan]], [[Andorra national football team|Andorra]] and [[Ukraine national football team|Ukraine]] |
In the [[2010 FIFA World Cup qualification – UEFA Group 6|2010 World Cup qualifiers]], Modrić scored three goals, against [[Kazakhstan national football team|Kazakhstan]],<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.uefa.com/worldcup/news/newsid=745808.html |title=Croatia cruise to Kazakhstan victory |date=7 September 2008 |work=UEFA |access-date=20 January 2016 |archive-date=30 May 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180530040227/http://www.uefa.com/worldcup/news/newsid=745808.html |url-status=live }}</ref> [[Andorra national football team|Andorra]],<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.fifa.com/worldcup/matches/round=250471/match=300040537/index.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160222210059/http://www.fifa.com/worldcup/matches/round=250471/match=300040537/index.html |url-status=dead |archive-date=22 February 2016 |title=Croatia 4–0 Andorra |date=15 October 2008 |publisher=FIFA |access-date=20 January 2016}}</ref> and [[Ukraine national football team|Ukraine]];<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.fifa.com/worldcup/matches/round=250471/match=300041077/index.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160222205726/http://www.fifa.com/worldcup/matches/round=250471/match=300041077/index.html |url-status=dead |archive-date=22 February 2016 |title=Croatia 2–2 Ukraine |date=6 June 2009 |publisher=FIFA |access-date=20 January 2016}}</ref> matching [[Ivica Olić]], [[Ivan Rakitić]] and Eduardo. The team failed to qualify finishing one point behind second-placed Ukraine. After appearing in all of their [[UEFA Euro 2012 qualifying Group F|UEFA Euro 2012 qualifying]] matches and scoring a goal against [[Israel national football team|Israel]],<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.uefa.com/news/newsid=1516110.html |title=Eduardo double against Israel sends Croatia top |date=6 September 2011 |first=Elvir |last=Islamović |work=UEFA |access-date=20 January 2016 |archive-date=11 June 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160611011356/http://www.uefa.com/news/newsid=1516110.html |url-status=live }}</ref> Modrić started in all three of Croatia [[UEFA Euro 2012 Group C|group stage]] matches against the [[Republic of Ireland national football team|Republic of Ireland]], Italy and [[Spain national football team|Spain]], but the team failed to progress. His most notable performance was against Spain. The most memorable moment of the match came when Modrić picked the ball on the halfway line skipping Spain's midfield trio, rushing down on the right to reach the penalty area where he evaded a defender and with a ''trivela'' crossed from {{Convert|18|yards|metres|abbr=on}} to Ivan Rakitić, but [[Iker Casillas]] saved this attempt.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/18181161 |title=Croatia 0–1 Spain |first=Ben |last=Smith |date=18 June 2012 |work=BBC Sport |access-date=14 August 2013 |archive-date=20 June 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120620112509/http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/18181161 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/18497169 |title=Euro 2012 day 11 analysis: Ivan Rakitic miss leaves Croatia short |date=19 June 2012 |work=BBC Sport |access-date=14 August 2013 |archive-date=26 August 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120826114907/http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/18497169 |url-status=live }}</ref> Because Croatia did not advance from the group stage, Modrić was not included in the [[UEFA Euro 2012#Awards|Team of the Tournament]], although ''[[The Daily Telegraph]]'' included him in the best 11 until the semi-finals,<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/competitions/euro-2012/9350132/Euro-2012-the-best-eleven-so-far.html |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20220111/https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/competitions/euro-2012/9350132/Euro-2012-the-best-eleven-so-far.html |archive-date=11 January 2022 |url-access=subscription |url-status=live |title=Euro 2012: the best eleven so far |first=Kristian |last=Walsh |date=26 June 2012 |work=The Daily Telegraph |access-date=14 August 2013}}{{cbignore}}</ref> and his play was well received by critics.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://betting.betfair.com/football/harry-redknapp/harry-redknapp-my-euro-2012-team-of-the-tournament-290612-512.html |title=Harry Redknapp: My Euro 2012 Team of the Tournament |date=29 June 2012 |work=betting.betfair.com |publisher=Bet Fair |access-date=14 August 2013 |archive-date=9 November 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131109214310/http://betting.betfair.com/football/harry-redknapp/harry-redknapp-my-euro-2012-team-of-the-tournament-290612-512.html |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://fourfourtwo.com/blogs/euro2012/archive/2012/06/20/analysis-modric-s-euros-prove-his-suitability-for-madrid-move.aspx |title=Analysis: Modric's Euros prove his suitability for Madrid move |date=20 June 2012 |work=FourFourTwo |publisher=Haymarket Consumer Media & FourFour Two |access-date=14 August 2013 |archive-date=30 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030214040/https://www.fourfourtwo.com/features/analysis-modrics-euros-prove-his-suitability-madrid-move |url-status=live }}</ref> |
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[[File:Brazil and Croatia match at the FIFA World Cup 2014-06-12 (10).jpg|left|thumb|Modrić playing against [[Neymar]] of [[Brazil national football team|Brazil]] at the [[2014 FIFA World Cup]]]] |
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==Style of play== |
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[[File:Luka Modric - Croatia vs. Portugal, 10th June 2013 (4).jpg|thumb|left|Modrić, playing for Croatia in 2013, has been considered as the most versatile, and crucial player of the national team.|250px]] |
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{{Quote_box|width=20%|align=right|quote="Not only is he a very hard worker, he has a good brain and he provided some calmness and composure to the [[midfield]]. His passing was neat and his contribution was outstanding. He was not only winning the ball, he was passing well. We thought that he was very influential. He did not just work hard, he made the other people play well around him." |
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|source=–[[Gérard Houllier]], UEFA Technical Team<ref name="modricman"/>}} |
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Modrić is described as a creative playmaker with great vision, able to change the course of the game with a pass, from both distances, or with a solo long-range effort.<ref name="ESPN">{{cite web| url=http://espnfc.com/player/_/id/76762/luka-modric?cc=5739#| title=Luka Modrić Bio, Stats, News| publisher=ESPN Internet Ventures| accessdate=2013-03-30}}</ref> He is able to play with both feet, and combines this with his swift offensive positioning off the ball.<ref name="modricability">{{cite web| url=http://www.fifa.com/confederationscup/news/newsid=798144.html| title=Modrić the key man for Bilić| publisher=FIFA.com| accessdate=2008-07-09}}</ref> His complex game brought him consistent success in the clubs he played for. His best role is as a central midfielder and during his time at Dinamo Zagreb, he proved his ability to play as an attacking midfielder, especially on his preferred left wing. In the 2010–11 season, Modrić has been seen to adopt a defensive midfield role in addition to playmaking, tracking back to win the ball from the opposition and prepare for counter-attack, making him one of the most versatile players in the Spurs squad.<ref name="modricability"/> His position in Real Madrid is number six, eight or ten, depending on the tactics,<ref name="Mourinho on LM">{{cite web| url=http://www.totalfootballmag.com/other-news/champions-league/mourinho-vows-to-deliver-another-european-cup/| title=Mourinho vows to deliver another European Cup| date=| publisher=Total Football Magazine| accessdate=2013-07-16}}</ref> while his role was described as the second deep-lying pivot along [[Xabi Alonso]], a classic playmaker when his creativity is needed to unlock the defense.<ref name="SN Plan C">{{cite web| url=http://sportske.jutarnji.hr/champions-league-magazin--modric-treba-realu-za-plan-c/1056484/| title='Modrić treba Realu za plan C'| date=2012-09-27| work=Sportske Novosti| accessdate=2013-03-31| language=Croatian}}</ref> |
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After the [[2014 FIFA World Cup qualification – UEFA second round|playoffs]], Modrić with the Croatian team qualified for the [[2014 FIFA World Cup|2014 World Cup]]. They entered [[2014 FIFA World Cup Group A|Group A]] with hosts [[Brazil national football team|Brazil]], [[Mexico national football team|Mexico]] and [[Cameroon national football team|Cameroon]]. Croatia played the opening match against Brazil, which they lost 3–1,<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/25285029 |title=Brazil 3 Croatia 1 |work=BBC Sport |date=12 June 2014 |access-date=19 June 2014 |archive-date=8 July 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140708110046/http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/25285029 |url-status=live }}</ref> and Modrić sustained a minor foot injury.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://news.yahoo.com/modric-injury-loss-against-brazil-not-serious-013420995.html |title=Modric injury in loss against Brazil not serious |first=Dusan |last=Stojanovic |date=13 June 2013 |work=Yahoo News |access-date=27 November 2014 |archive-date=5 December 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141205184939/http://news.yahoo.com/modric-injury-loss-against-brazil-not-serious-013420995.html |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/27847257 |title=World Cup 2014: Luka Modric hoping to be fit to face Cameroon |date=14 June 2014 |work=BBC Sport |access-date=19 January 2016 |archive-date=19 October 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151019202616/http://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/27847257 |url-status=live }}</ref> In the second match, Croatia won 4–0 against Cameroon,<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/25285162 |title=Cameroon 0 Croatia 4 |work=BBC Sport |date=18 June 2014 |access-date=19 June 2014 |archive-date=21 January 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160121080648/http://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/25285162 |url-status=live }}</ref> but did not progress to the knockout stage after losing 3–1 to Mexico,<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/25285326 |title=Croatia 1 Mexico 3 |date=23 June 2014 |work=BBC Sport |access-date=24 June 2014 |archive-date=21 January 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160121080648/http://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/25285326 |url-status=live }}</ref> despite the great expectations from the Croatian press and public.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.uefa.com/worldcup/news/newsid=2119094.html |title=Croatia's World Cup highs and lows |first=Elvir |last=Islamović |date=24 June 2014 |work=UEFA |access-date=27 November 2014 |archive-date=3 July 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140703182208/http://www.uefa.com/worldcup/news/newsid=2119094.html |url-status=live }}</ref> |
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In the Croatian national squad, Modrić linked up well with [[Niko Kovač]], also demonstrating his defensive ability. Croatian team manager [[Slaven Bilić]] has utilised Modrić's flexibility to good effect when experimenting with the team formation.<ref>{{cite web| url=http://blogs.guardian.co.uk/sport/2008/06/12/croatia_need_modrics_confidenc.html| title=Croatia need Modric's confidence to spread| author=Kevin McCarra| date=2007-06-12| publisher="Guardian News"}}</ref> Most notably, Modrić formed a "telepathic understanding" with [[Eduardo da Silva|Eduardo]] when they played together at Dinamo and the national team.<ref>{{cite web| url=http://croatia2008.wordpress.com/2007/10/24/could-luka-modric-be-reunited-with-eduardo-at-arsenal/| title=Could Modrić be reunited with Eduardo in Arsenal?| date=2007-10-24| publisher=Wordpress| work=croatia2008.wordpress.com}}</ref> |
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In the [[UEFA Euro 2016 qualifying Group H|Euro 2016 qualifying]] rounds, Modrić scored his first goals for Croatia in three years, the first against [[Malta national football team|Malta]] on his 29th birthday with a long-range shot,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.uefa.com/uefaeuro/qualifiers/season=2016/matches/round=2000446/match=2013838/postmatch/report/ |title=Modrić sets Croatia on course to sink Malta |first=Elvir |last=Islamović |date=9 September 2014 |work=UEFA |access-date=27 November 2014 |archive-date=30 December 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141230080706/http://www.uefa.com/uefaeuro/qualifiers/season=2016/matches/round=2000446/match=2013838/postmatch/report/ |url-status=live }}</ref> then a penalty against [[Azerbaijan national football team|Azerbaijan]].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.uefa.com/uefaeuro/season=2016/matches/round=2000446/match=2013880/postmatch/report/index.html |title=Croatia beat Azerbaijan for third straight win |first=Elvir |last=Islamović |date=13 October 2014 |work=UEFA |access-date=27 November 2014 |archive-date=24 December 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141224234400/http://www.uefa.com/uefaeuro/season=2016/matches/round=2000446/match=2013880/postmatch/report/index.html |url-status=live }}</ref> On 3 March 2015, Modrić captained Croatia for the first time, in an away draw against Azerbaijan.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.vecernji.hr/nogomet/luka-modric-uoci-kapetanskog-debija-robert-prosinecki-nas-poznaje-ali-to-nece-presuditi-1022532 |title=Modrić uoči kapetanskog debija: Ponosan sam, vjerujem da ću na pravi način predstavljati Hrvatsku |trans-title=Modrić ahead of the captain's debut: I am proud, I believe that I will properly represent Croatia |first=Marko |last=Pavić |date=2 September 2015 |publisher=Večernji list |access-date=20 January 2016 |archive-date=3 February 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160203223130/http://www.vecernji.hr/nogomet/luka-modric-uoci-kapetanskog-debija-robert-prosinecki-nas-poznaje-ali-to-nece-presuditi-1022532 |url-status=live }}</ref> In the [[UEFA Euro 2016|tournament]] proper, Modrić scored the match-winning goal in Croatia's opening [[UEFA Euro 2016 Group D|group stage]] match against Turkey, a [[Volley (football)|volley]] from 25 metres (28 yards).<ref name="Match vs Turkey">{{cite news|last=Haslam|first=Andrew|url=http://www.uefa.com/uefaeuro/season=2016/matches/round=2000448/match=2017884/postmatch/report/index.html|title=Modrić magic helps Croatia down Turkey|date=12 June 2016|access-date=14 June 2016|work=UEFA|archive-date=18 June 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160618132500/http://www.uefa.com/uefaeuro/season=2016/matches/round=2000448/match=2017884/postmatch/report/index.html|url-status=live}}</ref> In so doing, he became the first Croatian to score at the finals of two separate European Championships, having previously scored against Austria in 2008.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.goal.com/euro2016/en/article/modric-makes-euros-history-with-two-croatia-firsts/1iz9z50rxeo3y1je5jtbfdsvap |title=Modrić makes Euros history with two Croatia firsts |first=Miles (12 June 2016) |last=Chambers |publisher=Goal |access-date=12 June 2016 |archive-date=6 July 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180706161837/http://www.goal.com/euro2016/en/article/modric-makes-euros-history-with-two-croatia-firsts/1iz9z50rxeo3y1je5jtbfdsvap |url-status=live }}</ref> He was named Man of the Match.<ref name="Match vs Turkey"/> Modrić was forced to miss the crucial fixture against Spain on 21 June because of a minor muscle injury.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://sportske.jutarnji.hr/sn/nogomet/foto-modric-i-mandzukic-propustili-trening-je-li-cacic-pokusao-zavarati-spanjolce-sa-coricem-4453454|title=Čačić sprema veliko iznenađenje? Modrić i Mandžukić pauzirali, izbornik 'bacio mamac'|date=19 June 2016|access-date=24 December 2022|language=hr|archive-date=24 December 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221224102248/https://sportske.jutarnji.hr/sn/nogomet/foto-modric-i-mandzukic-propustili-trening-je-li-cacic-pokusao-zavarati-spanjolce-sa-coricem-4453454|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.squawka.com/en/news/croatia-midfielder-luka-modric-advised-to-miss-spain-game-by-doctor/701025|title=Croatia midfielder Luka Modric advised to miss Spain game by doctor|work=Squawka Football News|access-date=6 July 2018|archive-date=9 July 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180709185135/http://www.squawka.com/en/news/croatia-midfielder-luka-modric-advised-to-miss-spain-game-by-doctor/701025|url-status=live}}</ref> However, Croatia won and topped the group,<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.skysports.com/football/croatia-vs-spain/353085|title=Croatia 2–1 Spain: Ivan Perišić hands Croatia dramatic win to top Group D|work=Sky Sports|access-date=1 July 2018|archive-date=19 February 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210219031318/https://www.skysports.com/football/croatia-vs-spain/353085|url-status=live}}</ref> but lost to [[Portugal national football team|Portugal]] 0–1 in extra-time in the [[UEFA Euro 2016 knockout phase#Croatia vs Portugal|round of 16]].<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/36566064|title=Croatia 0–1 Portugal|date=25 June 2016|work=BBC Sport|access-date=1 July 2018|archive-date=19 February 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210219031319/https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/36566064|url-status=live}}</ref> |
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Modrić's cleverness in the game was recognized by [[Dragan Stojković|Piksi]], who stated: "I saw a small blond boy who played exactly like I would. Ideas he was showing then on the terrain were fascinating."<ref>{{cite web| url=http://sportske.jutarnji.hr/piksi-stojkovic-za-sn---modric-je-uz-xavija-i-iniestu-najinteligentniji-veznjak-svijeta--/1092068/| title=Piksi Stojković: 'Modrić je uz Xavija i Iniestu najinteligentniji veznjak svijeta!'| author=Juranović, Tomislav| date=2013-03-20| work=Sportske Novosti| accessdate=2013-03-31| language=Croatian}}</ref> [[Johan Cruyff]] noted that Modrić's quality and influence to the game depend on the freedom he gets.<ref>{{cite web| url=http://sportske.jutarnji.hr/cruyff-konacano-progovorio-o-nasljedniku---modric-ima-ogromnu-kvalitetu--treba-mu-dati-slobodu-/1092078/| title=Cruyff o nasljedniku: 'Luka Modrić ima ogromnu kvalitetu, treba mu dati slobodu'| author=Robert Matteoni| date=2013-03-20| publisher=EPH| work="Sportske Novosti"| accessdate=2013-03-31| language=Croatian}}</ref> [[Paul Scholes]] who several times played against him, in an interview to Manchester Evening News in 2011 said: "Of the three [Samir Nasri and Wesley Sneijder], Modrić, has been the one I have been most impressed with, [and] whenever we played Tottenham, he was the one who stood out."<ref>{{cite web| url=http://espnfc.com/euro2012/en/news/1086938/musa-okwongathe-luka-modric-mystique.html| title=The Luka Modric mystique| author=Musa Okwonga| date=2012-06-05| publisher=ESPN.com| accessdate=2013-08-13}}</ref> |
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===2016–2018: Golden Ball of the 2018 World Cup=== |
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[[José Mourinho]] stated that the reason why he wanted him in Real Madrid is because of his influence on the game, tactical level and has "that artistic sense."<ref name="Mourinho on LM"/> [[Carlo Ancelotti]] praised Modrić's technique and versatility as a midfield player, stating: "Modric is an outstanding player and in my opinion one of the best midfielders in the world right now, because he can play in more than one position".<ref>{{cite web| url=http://www.marca.com/2013/05/23/en/football/real_madrid/1369295645.html| title=Ancelotti, a great admirer of Modric| date=2012-05-23| publisher=Marca.com| accessdate=2013-08-13}}</ref><ref>{{cite web| url=http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/teams/tottenham-hotspur/9395211/Tottenhams-Luka-Modric-receives-high-praise-from-PSG-coach-Carlo-Ancelotti-as-clubs-jostle-for-his-signature.html| title=Tottenham's Luka Modric receives high praise from PSG coach Carlo Ancelotti as club's jostle for his signature| date=2012-07-12| publisher=Telegraph Media Group| work=telegraph.co.uk| accessdate=2013-03-31}}</ref> Others managers who have praised his game include [[Alex Ferguson]],<ref>{{cite web| url=http://espnfc.com/news/story/_/id/1029903/sir-alex-ferguson:-luka-modric-has-same-qualities-as-paul-scholes?cc=5739| title=Ferguson: Modric has Scholes class| date=2012-03-03| publisher=ESPN Internet Ventures| work=espnfc.com| accessdate=2013-03-31}}</ref> [[Pep Guardiola]],<ref>{{cite web| url=http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1364402/The-magic-Luka-Modric-Croatian-midfielder-shows-theres-Spurs-Bale-Van-der-Vaart.html| title=The magic of Modric: Croatian midfielder shows there's more to Spurs than Bale and Van der Vaart| author=Alex Kay| date=2011-03-09| publisher=Associated Newspapers| work=dailymail.co.uk| accessdate=2013-03-31}}</ref><ref>{{cite web| url=http://sportske.jutarnji.hr/guardiola-godinama-prica-o-modricu/916970/| title=Direktor Barce za SN: 'Guardiola obožava Modrića, već godinama priča o njemu!'| author=Dean Bauer| date=2011-01-11| publisher=EPH| work=Sportske Novosti| accessdate=2013-03-31| language=Croatian}}</ref> and [[Sven-Göran Eriksson|S.G. Eriksson]].<ref>{{cite web| url=http://sportski.net.hr/nogomet/reprezentacija/eriksson-luka-je-igrac-za-barcelonu-nikako-za-real| title='Luka Modrić je igrač za Barcelonu, nikako za Real!'| date=2012-07-18| publisher=adriaticmedia| work=sportski.net.hr| accessdate=2013-03-31| language=Croatian}}</ref> |
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[[File:ISL-HRV (7).jpg|thumb|upright|Modrić at the [[2018 FIFA World Cup]]. He is said to anchor [[Croatia national football team#Dalić's second "golden generation" (2017–2019)|Croatia's second Golden Generation]].]] |
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[[File:Kylian Mbappé and Luka Modrić receive the award for the best young player and best player in the 2018 World Cup respectively (cropped).jpg|thumb|upright|Modrić holding his Golden Ball award for the [[FIFA World Cup awards#Golden Ball|2018 FIFA World Cup Best Player]]]] |
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For Croatia's [[2018 FIFA World Cup qualification – UEFA Group I|2018 World Cup qualifying campaign]], Modrić became the new team captain, following [[Darijo Srna]]'s retirement.<ref>{{cite web|title=Luka Modrić, the new captain: "I'm so proud"|url=http://hns-cff.hr/en/news/14953/luka-modric-the-new-captain-im-so-proud/|work=Croatian Football Federation|date=29 August 2016|access-date=29 August 2016|archive-date=27 July 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210727064200/https://hns-cff.hr/en/news/14953/luka-modric-the-new-captain-im-so-proud/|url-status=live}}</ref> Croatia started the campaign well; however, following 1–0 defeats to [[Iceland national football team|Iceland]]<ref>{{Cite web|date=12 June 2017|title=[VIDEO] Modrić: Nismo bili pravi, izgledali smo prazno i potrošeno|url=https://sport.hrt.hr/392057/video-modric-nismo-bili-pravi-izgledali-smo-prazno-i-potroseno|access-date=22 October 2020|website=Hrvatska radiotelevizija|language=hr|archive-date=25 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201125172144/https://sport.hrt.hr/392057/video-modric-nismo-bili-pravi-izgledali-smo-prazno-i-potroseno|url-status=live}}</ref> and Turkey<ref>{{Cite web|last1=Halar|first1=Ivan|last2=Janković|first2=Željko|date=5 September 2017|title=Turska šokirala Hrvatsku! Bit će dramatično do kraja kvalifikacija|url=https://www.vecernji.hr/sport/hrvatska-uoci-utakmice-s-turskom-ostala-bez-mandzukica-1192686|access-date=22 October 2020|website=Večernji list|language=hr|archive-date=3 March 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210303115209/https://www.vecernji.hr/sport/hrvatska-uoci-utakmice-s-turskom-ostala-bez-mandzukica-1192686|url-status=live}}</ref> and a 1–1 draw with [[Finland national football team|Finland]] (in which Modrić made his [[List of men's footballers with 100 or more international caps|100th appearance for the national team]]),<ref>{{Cite web|last1=Nevešćanin|first1=Nenad|last2=Tolić|first2=Josip|date=6 October 2017|title=ŠOK NA RUJEVICI! Hrvatska prosula pobjedu u 90. minuti...|url=https://www.24sata.hr/sport/kisa-ne-prijeti-navijaci-polako-pristizu-neka-padnu-ti-finci-543083|access-date=22 October 2020|website=24sata|language=hr|archive-date=26 October 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201026133104/https://www.24sata.hr/sport/kisa-ne-prijeti-navijaci-polako-pristizu-neka-padnu-ti-finci-543083|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|last=P. R.|date=6 October 2017|title=Luka Modrić obilježava 100. utakmicu za hrvatsku reprezentaciju|url=https://gol.dnevnik.hr/clanak/rubrika/nogomet/luka-modric-obiljezava-100-utakmicu-za-hrvatsku-reprezentaciju---491705.html|access-date=24 October 2020|website=Gol.hr|language=hr|archive-date=5 August 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210805061040/https://gol.dnevnik.hr/clanak/rubrika/nogomet/luka-modric-obiljezava-100-utakmicu-za-hrvatsku-reprezentaciju---491705.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Croatia seriously compromised their qualification for the tournament.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Starešinčić|first=Danijel|date=7 October 2017|title=Ovo je luda opcija u koju baš nitko u Hrvatskoj ne vjeruje!|url=https://www.tportal.hr/sport/clanak/ovo-je-luda-opcija-u-koju-bas-nitko-u-hrvatskoj-ne-vjeruje-foto-20171007|access-date=22 October 2020|website=Tportal.hr|language=hr|archive-date=26 October 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201026154622/https://www.tportal.hr/sport/clanak/ovo-je-luda-opcija-u-koju-bas-nitko-u-hrvatskoj-ne-vjeruje-foto-20171007|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|date=6 October 2017|title=Igrači utučeni nakon Finske: "Nešto ne štima, treba se jako dobro zamisliti"|url=https://gol.dnevnik.hr/clanak/rubrika/nogomet/hrvatski-reprezentativci-utuceni-nakon-finske-treba-se-jako-dobro-zamisliti---491718.html|access-date=22 October 2020|website=Gol.hr|language=hr|archive-date=24 October 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201024191112/https://gol.dnevnik.hr/clanak/rubrika/nogomet/hrvatski-reprezentativci-utuceni-nakon-finske-treba-se-jako-dobro-zamisliti---491718.html|url-status=live}}</ref> This caused Modrić to publicly state his lack of confidence in coach [[Ante Čačić]].<ref>{{Cite web|last=Kušec|first=Katarina|date=6 October 2017|title=Modrić: Treba li izbornik Čačić otići? A što da sada radimo!?|url=https://www.vecernji.hr/sport/modric-treba-li-izbornik-cacic-otici-a-sto-da-sada-radimo-1199428|access-date=24 December 2022|website=Večernji list|language=hr|archive-date=24 December 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221224102249/https://www.vecernji.hr/sport/modric-treba-li-izbornik-cacic-otici-a-sto-da-sada-radimo-1199428|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|last=Jukić|first=Ante|date=7 October 2017|title=Real Madrid star Luka Modric unwilling to back Croatia coach in outburst|url=https://www.goal.com/en/news/modric-unwilling-to-back-croatia-coach-outburst-world-cup/1kn4k8vrvygl11lm9o5etdxf6v|access-date=22 October 2020|website=Goal.com|archive-date=11 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201111213126/https://www.goal.com/en/news/modric-unwilling-to-back-croatia-coach-outburst-world-cup/1kn4k8vrvygl11lm9o5etdxf6v|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|last=Lovrić|first=Dejan|date=7 October 2017|title=Modrić: Jesmo li uz izbornika? Ha, što sad da radimo...|url=https://www.goal.com/hr/vijesti/modric-pa-to-je-nedopustivo-da-se-hrvatska-povuce-nakon-gola/zqlxl48uo85w1o1v39nawbi4z|access-date=22 October 2020|website=Goal.com|language=hr|archive-date=26 October 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201026133104/https://www.goal.com/hr/vijesti/modric-pa-to-je-nedopustivo-da-se-hrvatska-povuce-nakon-gola/zqlxl48uo85w1o1v39nawbi4z|url-status=live}}</ref> Čačić was soon replaced by [[Zlatko Dalić]] ahead of Croatia's final qualifier against Ukraine away,<ref>{{Cite web|last=I. Š.|date=7 October 2017|title=Novi izbornik Zlatko Dalić otkrio što će napraviti uoči Ukrajine|url=https://gol.dnevnik.hr/clanak/rubrika/nogomet/novi-izbornik-zlatko-dalic-otkrio-sto-ce-napraviti-uoci-ukrajine---491767.html|access-date=22 October 2020|website=Gol.hr|language=hr|archive-date=26 October 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201026215910/https://gol.dnevnik.hr/clanak/rubrika/nogomet/novi-izbornik-zlatko-dalic-otkrio-sto-ce-napraviti-uoci-ukrajine---491767.html|url-status=live}}</ref> which Croatia won 2–0 and won a place in the [[2018 FIFA World Cup qualification – UEFA second round|play-offs]].<ref>{{Cite web|last=Janković|first=Ivan|date=10 October 2017|title=Kramarić uništio Ukrajinu usred Kijeva, Hrvatska izborila dodatne kvalifikacije!|url=https://www.tportal.hr/sport/clanak/kramaric-unistio-ukrajinu-usred-kijeva-hrvatska-izborila-dodatne-kvalifikacije-foto-20171009|access-date=22 October 2020|website=Tportal.hr|language=hr|archive-date=26 October 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201026034835/https://www.tportal.hr/sport/clanak/kramaric-unistio-ukrajinu-usred-kijeva-hrvatska-izborila-dodatne-kvalifikacije-foto-20171009|url-status=live}}</ref> Modrić scored a penalty in the 4–1 victory over [[Greece national football team|Greece]] in the second qualifying round,<ref>{{Cite web|last=Hina|date=9 November 2017|title=Briljantna Hrvatska pregazila Grčku i dala joj do znanja tko ide u Rusiju|url=https://gol.dnevnik.hr/clanak/rubrika/nogomet/hrvatska-grcka-kvalifikacije-za-svjetsko-prvenstvo-2018---495481.html|access-date=22 October 2020|website=Gol.hr|language=hr|archive-date=24 October 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201024063651/https://gol.dnevnik.hr/clanak/rubrika/nogomet/hrvatska-grcka-kvalifikacije-za-svjetsko-prvenstvo-2018---495481.html|url-status=live}}</ref> enabling his team to qualify for the World Cup. |
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Croatia were placed in [[2018 FIFA World Cup Group D|Group D]] alongside Argentina, Iceland and [[Nigeria national football team|Nigeria]]. During the tournament, Modrić—along with Ivan Rakitić and Mario Mandžukić—were referred to as [[Croatia national football team#Dalić's second "golden generation" (2017–2019)|Croatia's second "Golden Generation"]].<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.thestar.com/sports/worldcup/2018/06/30/modric-magic-at-heart-of-croatian-soccers-golden-generation.html|title=Modric magic at heart of Croatian soccer's golden generation|last=Callaghan|first=Joe|date=30 June 2018|work=Toronto Star|access-date=5 July 2018|quote=The golden generation – with Modric, Rakitic and striker Mario Mandzukic as its pillars – have more often watched such efforts go up in flames.|archive-date=7 July 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180707035634/https://www.thestar.com/sports/worldcup/2018/06/30/modric-magic-at-heart-of-croatian-soccers-golden-generation.html|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/world-cup/iceland-vs-croatia-world-cup-2018-ivan-rakitic-luka-modric-midfield-tactics-preview-partnership-a8416581.html|title=Are Ivan Rakitic and Luka Modric the World Cup's biggest unsung heroes?|last=Miller|first=Nick|date=30 June 2018|work=The Independent|access-date=1 July 2018|archive-date=2 July 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180702062606/https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/world-cup/iceland-vs-croatia-world-cup-2018-ivan-rakitic-luka-modric-midfield-tactics-preview-partnership-a8416581.html|url-status=live}}</ref> In Croatia's opening win against Nigeria, Modrić once again successfully executed a penalty kick and was named Man of the Match.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/44422185 |title=World Cup 2018: Luka Modric penalty secures 2–0 win for Croatia against Nigeria |author=Mike Whalley |work=BBC Sport |date=17 June 2018 |access-date=17 June 2018 |archive-date=16 June 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180616135300/https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/44422185 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.fifa.com/worldcup/matches/match/300331523 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180612212731/https://www.fifa.com/worldcup/matches/match/300331523/ |url-status=dead |archive-date=12 June 2018 |title=Modric-inspired Croatia open with a win |publisher=FIFA |date=17 June 2018 | access-date=17 June 2018}}</ref> He also scored in Croatia's subsequent 3–0 win over Argentina with a long-range shot from 25 yards (23 metres),<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/mesmerising-modric-makes-it-a-nightmare-for-misfiring-messi-n6cb7bppf |title=Mesmerising Luka Modric makes it a nightmare for misfiring Lionel Messi |author=Oliver Kay |work=The Times |date=22 June 2018 |access-date=22 June 2018 |archive-date=26 July 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180726204416/https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/mesmerising-modric-makes-it-a-nightmare-for-misfiring-messi-n6cb7bppf |url-status=live }}</ref> also being named Man of the Match.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/44439114 |title=Croatia stun Argentina to reach World Cup last 16 |author=Patrick Jennings |work=BBC Sport |date=21 June 2018 |access-date=21 June 2018 |archive-date=6 July 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180706130349/https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/44439114 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.fifa.com/worldcup/matches/match/300331513 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180612140549/https://www.fifa.com/worldcup/matches/match/300331513/ |url-status=dead |archive-date=12 June 2018 |title=Croatia advance on a dark night for Argentina |publisher=FIFA |date=21 June 2018 | access-date=21 June 2018}}</ref> After also featuring in the final group stage match, against Iceland, his performances in the first round of the tournament saw him ranked by ''[[FourFourTwo]]'', ''The Daily Telegraph'' and [[ESPN]] as the best player of the group stage.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.fourfourtwo.com/features/ranked-10-best-players-2018-world-cup-group-stage?page=0%2C1|title=Ranked! The 10 best players of the 2018 World Cup group stage|author=Nick Miller|date=29 June 2018|website=FourFourTwo|access-date=29 June 2018|archive-date=29 June 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180629211614/https://www.fourfourtwo.com/features/ranked-10-best-players-2018-world-cup-group-stage?page=0%2C1|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/world-cup/2018/06/29/world-cup-2018-10-best-players-group-stage-has-made-biggest/ |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20220111/https://www.telegraph.co.uk/world-cup/2018/06/29/world-cup-2018-10-best-players-group-stage-has-made-biggest/ |archive-date=11 January 2022 |url-access=subscription |url-status=live|title=Top 10 best players of the World Cup group stages – but who has made the biggest impact in Russia so far?|author=Jeremy Wilson|date=29 June 2018|work=The Daily Telegraph|access-date=29 June 2018}}{{cbignore}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://global.espn.com/football/fifa-world-cup/4/blog/post/3549813/luka-modric-beats-cristiano-ronaldo-to-top-world-cup-player-power-rankings|title=Luka Modric beats Cristiano Ronaldo, tops World Cup Play Power Rankings|date=29 June 2018|publisher=ESPN|access-date=30 June 2018|archive-date=10 October 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181010105924/http://global.espn.com/football/fifa-world-cup/4/blog/post/3549813/luka-modric-beats-cristiano-ronaldo-to-top-world-cup-player-power-rankings|url-status=live}}</ref> |
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In the [[2018 FIFA World Cup knockout stage#Croatia vs Denmark|round of 16]] against [[Denmark national football team|Denmark]] on 1 July, with the score tied at 1–1, Modrić created a goalscoring opportunity for [[Ante Rebić]] in the second half of extra-time, who was brought down in the penalty area; Modrić proceeded to take the penalty, but his strike was saved by [[Kasper Schmeichel]]. However, Modrić managed to score his spot-kick during the ensuing penalty shoot-out and Croatia advanced to the next round following a 3–2 victory on penalties.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/44591346 |title=Croatia beat Denmark in tense shootout |author=Paul Fletcher |work=BBC Sport |date=1 July 2018 |access-date=2 July 2018 |archive-date=16 July 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180716095451/https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/44591346 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://global.espn.com/football/team/croatia/477/blog/post/3553512/luka-modric-vanquishes-ghosts-of-penalties-past-in-what-could-be-his-final-world-cup?src=com|title=Luka Modric vanquishes ghosts of penalties past in what could be his final World Cup|author=Gabriele Marcotti|date=2 July 2018|publisher=ESPN|access-date=2 July 2018|archive-date=2 July 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180702064527/http://global.espn.com/football/team/croatia/477/blog/post/3553512/luka-modric-vanquishes-ghosts-of-penalties-past-in-what-could-be-his-final-world-cup?src=com|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2018/jul/02/now-we-can-forget-turkey-modric-and-croatia-lay-ghost-of-2008-to-rest|title='Now we can forget Turkey': Modric and Croatia lay ghost of 2008 to rest|author=David Hytner|date=2 July 2018|work=The Guardian|access-date=2 July 2018|archive-date=4 December 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181204180151/https://www.theguardian.com/football/2018/jul/02/now-we-can-forget-turkey-modric-and-croatia-lay-ghost-of-2008-to-rest|url-status=live}}</ref> In the [[2018 FIFA World Cup knockout stage#Russia vs Croatia|quarter-finals]] against hosts [[Russia national football team|Russia]] on 7 July, Modrić provided an assist in extra-time for [[Domagoj Vida]] from a corner kick, and once again scored in the victorious penalty shoot-out following a 2–2 draw; he was named Man of the Match for the third time in the tournament.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/44665444 |title=Croatia knock out Russia on penalties |author=Patrick Jennings |work=BBC Sport |date=7 July 2018 |access-date=7 July 2018 |archive-date=19 July 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180719042905/https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/44665444 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.fifa.com/worldcup/matches/match/300331504 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180702175734/https://www.fifa.com/worldcup/matches/match/300331504/ |url-status=dead |archive-date=2 July 2018 |title=Croatia through as hosts pay the penalty |publisher=FIFA |date=7 July 2018 | access-date=7 July 2018}}</ref> In the semi-final against England on 11 July, Croatia advanced to the [[2018 FIFA World Cup Final|World Cup final]] for the first time in their history following a 2–1 victory in extra time.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/44706648 |title=Croatia 2–1 England |work=BBC Sport |author1=Phil McNulty |date=11 July 2018 |access-date=11 July 2018 |archive-date=16 July 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180716003438/https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/44706648 |url-status=live }}</ref> It was reported two days before the final match that Modrić ran the most miles out of any player and was third by created chances, as well had most dribbles per match and completed passes in the opponent's half in his team.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.theringer.com/soccer/2018/7/13/17567016/2018-world-cup-final-preview-kylian-mbappe-luka-modric-golden-ball|title=Who Is the Defining Player of the 2018 World Cup?|last=O'Hanlon|first=Ryan|date=13 July 2018|work=[[The Ringer (website)|The Ringer]]|access-date=13 July 2018|quote=The most impressive thing about Modric's World Cup might be how much of him there's been. Despite declining club usage, he's played 40 more minutes than anyone else in Russia—goalkeepers, who never get subbed, included. He's created more chances than all but three players, he's leading his team in dribbles per game and completed passes in the final third, and he's tied with Kane for the most Man of the Match awards.|archive-date=14 July 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180714051153/https://www.theringer.com/soccer/2018/7/13/17567016/2018-world-cup-final-preview-kylian-mbappe-luka-modric-golden-ball|url-status=live}}</ref> Although Croatia were beaten 4–2 by [[France national football team|France]] in the final on 15 July,<ref name="McNulty">{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/44754965|title=France 4–2 Croatia: France beat Croatia in thrilling World Cup final|work=BBC Sport|date=15 July 2018|access-date=15 July 2018|last=McNulty|first=Phil|archive-date=15 July 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180715194503/https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/44754965|url-status=live}}</ref> Modrić was awarded the [[FIFA World Cup awards#Golden Ball|Golden Ball]] for the best player of the tournament,<ref name="FIFAGolden">{{cite news |title=Golden consolation for magical Modric |url=https://www.fifa.com/worldcup/news/157-awards-piece-2986294 |access-date=15 July 2018 |publisher=FIFA |date=15 July 2018 |archive-date=19 February 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190219104856/https://www.fifa.com/worldcup/news/157-awards-piece-2986294 |url-status=live }}</ref> and was included in the [[2018 FIFA World Cup#Dream Team|Team of the Tournament]].<ref name="FIFATEAM1">{{cite web |url=https://dreamteam.fifa.com/en/home |title=FIFA World Cup Fan Dream Team |publisher=FIFA |date=17 July 2017 |access-date=17 July 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180626225201/https://dreamteam.fifa.com/en/home |archive-date=26 June 2018 |url-status=dead }}</ref><ref name="FIFATEAM2">{{cite web|title=Kane crowned King, Mina the PPG VIP |url=https://www.fifa.com/worldcup/news/kane-crowned-king-mina-the-ppg-vip |publisher=FIFA |access-date=25 July 2018}}</ref> After the squad's huge welcome in Zagreb,<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2018/jul/15/philosophical-fans-celebrate-croatias-historic-world-cup-final|title=Philosophical fans celebrate Croatia's historic World Cup, despite final defeat|last=Hajdari|first=Una|date=15 July 2018|work=The Guardian|access-date=20 July 2018}}</ref> Modrić and his teammates [[Danijel Subašić]], [[Šime Vrsaljko]] and [[Dominik Livaković]] were welcomed by tens of thousands of people in their hometown of Zadar.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.vecernji.hr/sport/zadar-gori-festa-za-modrica-subasica-vrsaljka-i-livakovica-1258980|title=Zadar gori, fešta za Modrića, Subašića, Vrsaljka i Livakovića|trans-title=Zadar burns, party for Modrić, Subašić, Vrsaljko and Livaković|last=Šarić|first=Frane|date=17 July 2018|work=[[Večernji list]]|access-date=31 August 2018|language=hr}}</ref> |
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Modrić took part in all four matches in the [[2018–19 UEFA Nations League|inaugural edition]] of the [[UEFA Nations League]] as Croatia finished at the bottom of [[2018–19 UEFA Nations League A#Group 4|Group A4]] following historical 6–0 away defeat to Spain in September and a 2–1 defeat to England at the [[Wembley Stadium]] in November 2018.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.uefa.com/uefanationsleague/match/2024040--spain-vs-croatia/|title=Spain–Croatia|date=11 September 2018 |work=UEFA|access-date=13 April 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.uefa.com/uefanationsleague/match/2024037--england-vs-croatia/|title=England–Croatia|date=18 November 2018 |work=UEFA|access-date=13 April 2022}}</ref> |
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===2019–2022: Bronze Ball of the 2022 World Cup=== |
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During the [[UEFA Euro 2020 qualifying Group E|Euro 2020 qualifying]] rounds, Modrić scored two goals; a penalty in the away 1–1 draw with Azerbaijan and a solo-effort in the home 3–0 victory over [[Hungary national football team|Hungary]] as Croatia topped the group and qualified for the [[UEFA Euro 2020|tournament]].<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.uefa.com/european-qualifiers/season=2020/matches/round=2001086/match=2026199/index.html|title=Azerbaijan–Croatia|date=9 September 2019 |work=UEFA|access-date=25 November 2019}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.uefa.com/european-qualifiers/season=2020/matches/round=2001086/match=2026219/index.html|title=Croatia–Hungary|date=10 October 2019 |work=UEFA|access-date=25 November 2019}}</ref> However, due to the [[COVID-19 pandemic in Europe|COVID-19 pandemic]], the tournament was postponed for a year.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Medo|first=Ivica|date=17 March 2020|title=Evo zašto Vatrenima odgovara odgoda Eura: Rodit će se idealan spoj, Modrić dobiva nasljednika|url=https://gol.dnevnik.hr/clanak/rubrika/nogomet/evo-zasto-vatrenima-odgovara-odgoda-eura-rodit-ce-se-idealan-spoj-modric-dobiva-nasljednika---597953.html|access-date=1 September 2020|website=Gol.hr|language=hr}}</ref> On 24 March 2021, Modrić made his 134th appearance for the national team in a 1–0 [[2022 FIFA World Cup qualification – UEFA Group H|2022 World Cup qualifying]] defeat to [[Slovenia national football team|Slovenia]], equalling Darijo Srna as the most capped player in the history of the team.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://sportske.jutarnji.hr/sn/nogomet/reprezentacija/povijesni-nastup-luke-modrica-zasjenio-poraz-hrvatske-kapetan-dostigao-srnu-u-subotu-rusi-rekord-15060601|title=Povijesni nastup Luke Modrića zasjenio poraz Hrvatske! Kapetan dostigao Srnu, u subotu ruši rekord|author=Hina|date=24 March 2021|accessdate=24 March 2021|work=Sportske novosti|language=hr}}</ref> Three days later, in a 1–0 World Cup qualifying victory over [[Cyprus national football team|Cyprus]], he surpassed Srna's record.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/56552534|title=Croatia 1–0 Cyprus|date=27 March 2021|accessdate=27 March 2021|work=BBC Sport}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|last=Stroud|first=James|date=28 March 2021|title=Luka Modric's emotional reaction after being given standing ovation for breaking Croatia record|url=https://www.givemesport.com/1666311-luka-modric-close-to-tears-after-being-given-standing-ovation-for-breaking-croatia-record|access-date=18 September 2021|website=GiveMeSport}}</ref> |
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Modrić was selected to the [[UEFA Euro 2020 squads#Croatia|final squad]] for the UEFA Euro 2020 on 17 May.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://hns-cff.hr/news/22677/izbornik-dalic-objavio-popis-kandidata-za-euro-2020/ |title=Izbornik Dalić objavio popis kandidata za EURO 2020! |trans-title=The selector Dalić published the list of candidates for Euro 2020! |work=[[Croatian Football Federation]] |date=17 May 2021 |access-date=17 May 2021 |language=hr}}</ref> Despite Croatia's poor showings in their first two [[UEFA Euro 2020 Group D|group stage]] games, Modrić was named the Man of the Match in the second one, a 1–1 draw with the [[Czech Republic national football team|Czech Republic]] on 18 June.<ref>{{Cite web|date=18 June 2021|title=Modrić jako razočaran nakon remija s Češkom: "Ostaje gorak okus, bili smo potpuno neorganizirani..."|url=https://gol.dnevnik.hr/clanak/euro-2020/euro-2020-izjava-nakon-utakmice-hrvatska-ceska---656335.html|access-date=23 June 2021|website=Gol.hr|language=hr}}</ref> Four days later, in the 3–1 victory over [[Scotland national football team|Scotland]], with a ''trivela'' he scored Croatia's second goal and provided [[Ivan Perišić]] with an assist for the third goal as Croatia progressed to the [[UEFA Euro 2020 knockout phase#Round of 16|round of 16]].<ref>{{Cite web|last=Taylor|first=Louise|date=22 June 2021|title=Croatia's brain Luka Modric bewitches and bewilders Scotland to Euros exit|url=http://www.theguardian.com/football/blog/2021/jun/22/croatia-luka-modric-bewitches-bewilders-scotland-exit-euro-2020|access-date=23 June 2021|website=The Guardian}}</ref> Modrić's goal made him Croatia's oldest ever goalscorer at the European Championships (aged 35 years and 286 days), while simultaneously holding the record for the youngest goalscorer that he set in 2008.<ref name=":1">{{Cite web|last=[[Croatian News Agency|HINA]]|date=23 June 2021|title=Modrić je sinoć došao do rekorda koji vjerojatno nitko neće više srušiti|url=https://gol.dnevnik.hr/clanak/euro-2020/modric-je-sinoc-dosao-do-rekorda-kojeg-vjerojatno-nitko-nece-vise-srusiti---656753.html|access-date=23 June 2021|website=Gol.hr|language=hr}}</ref> |
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During the 2022 World Cup qualifying, Modrić scored three times and assisted twice in seven appearances.<ref>{{Cite web|date=11 November 2021|title=Malta 1–7 Croatia: World Cup qualifying – Croatia set up showdown with Russia|url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/59254016|access-date=24 December 2022|website=BBC}}</ref> On 13 June 2022, he scored a penalty in a 1–0 away win over France in the [[2022–23 UEFA Nations League A#Group 1|2022–23 UEFA Nations League A]], to be Croatia's first ever win against the latter.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.uefa.com/uefanationsleague/match/2034504/ |title=France – Croatia |website=UEFA |date=13 June 2022 |access-date=13 June 2022}}</ref> On 25 September, he scored opening goal in the last group's game and 3–1 away victory against Austria,<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.uefa.com/uefanationsleague/match/2034552/ |title=Austria – Croatia |website=UEFA |date=25 September 2022 |access-date=28 September 2022}}</ref> helping the team advance to the [[2023 UEFA Nations League Finals]].<ref>{{Cite web|date=25 September 2022|title=Croatia clinch Nations League Finals spot by relegating Austria|url=https://www.marca.com/en/football/nations-league/cronica/2022/09/25/6330c51bca4741b8248b4583.html|access-date=28 September 2022|website=Marca}}</ref> On 9 November, Modrić was selected to Croatia's [[2022 FIFA World Cup squads#Croatia|final squad]] for the [[2022 FIFA World Cup]].<ref>{{cite web |title=Izbornik Dalić objavio popis za SP u Kataru! |trans-title=Selector Dalić published the Qatar WC squad list! |url=https://hns-cff.hr/news/24798/izbornik-dalic-objavio-popis-za-sp-u-kataru/ |website=[[Croatian Football Federation]] |access-date=18 December 2022 |language=hr |date=9 November 2022}}</ref> In the first and third [[2022 FIFA World Cup Group F|group stage]] games against [[Morocco national football team|Morocco]] and [[Belgium national football team|Belgium]], he was named the Man of the Match.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/football/fifa-world-cup-2022/fifa-world-cup-2022-tireless-luka-modric-leading-by-example-as-croatia-face-japan/articleshow/95974380.cms |title=FIFA World Cup 2022: Tireless Luka Modric leading by example as Croatia face Japan |website=[[The Times of India]] |date=4 December 2022 |access-date=11 December 2022}}</ref> He became the first player to play in both the European Championship and the World Cup in three different decades.<ref>{{cite web |first=Jude |last=Summerfield |url=https://www.90min.com/posts/luka-modric-sets-stunning-international-record-during-croatia-vs-morocco |title=Luka Modric sets stunning international record during Croatia vs Morocco |website=[[90min]] |date=23 November 2022 |access-date=11 December 2022 }}{{Dead link|date=September 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref> In the [[2022 FIFA World Cup knockout stage#Japan vs Croatia|round of 16]] and [[2022 FIFA World Cup knockout stage#Croatia vs Brazil|quarter-finals]], Croatia advanced on penalties against Japan and Brazil, with Modrić scoring in the shoot-out against Brazil,<ref>{{cite web |first=Nick |last=Ames |url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/blog/2022/dec/05/croatia-showed-once-again-that-they-are-the-masters-of-walking-football |title=Croatia showed once again that they are the masters of walking football |website=[[The Guardian]] |date=5 December 2022 |access-date=11 December 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |first=Lawrence |last=Ostlere |url=https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/world-cup/luka-modric-croatia-brazil-argentina-b2242666.html |title=Croatia squeezing every drop out of superstar captain Luka Modric to keep World Cup hopes alive |website=[[The Independent]] |date=10 December 2022 |access-date=11 December 2022}}</ref> and captaining Croatia to a second consecutive World Cup [[2022 FIFA World Cup knockout stage#Argentina vs Croatia|semi-final]] where they lost 3–0 to Argentina. In the [[2022 FIFA World Cup knockout stage#Third place play-off|third place play-off]],<ref>{{cite web |first=Richard |last=Jolly |url=https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/world-cup/luka-modric-croatia-argentina-last-match-b2244863.html |title=Luka Modric denied final masterpiece but departs World Cup stage with his greatness secured |website=[[The Independent]] |date=14 December 2022 |access-date=14 December 2022}}</ref> Croatia prevailed 2–1 over Morocco,<ref name=third /><ref>{{cite web |first=Miguel A. |last=Moran |url=https://www.marca.com/en/world-cup/2022/12/17/639e2052268e3e565d8b45ec.html |title=Modric on Croatia retirement: I will continue until the Nations League and then we'll see |website=Marca |date=17 December 2022 |access-date=17 December 2022}}</ref> as Modrić won the [[FIFA World Cup Bronze Ball|Bronze Ball]].<ref name="FifaBronzeBall">{{Cite web |date=18 December 2022 |title=Messi makes Golden Ball history |url=https://www.fifa.com/fifaplus/en/articles/lionel-messi-argentina-wins-golden-ball-award-best-player-fifa-world-cup-qatar-2022 |access-date=18 December 2022 |website=FIFA}}</ref> |
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===2023: Euro 2024 qualifying and Nations League finals=== |
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On 25 March 2023, in a [[UEFA Euro 2024 qualifying Group D|UEFA Euro 2024 qualifying]] match against [[Wales national football team|Wales]], Modrić became the oldest ever player to play a game for Croatia―aged {{Age in years, months and days |month2 = 3 |day2 = 25 |year2 = 2023 |month1 = 9 |day1 = 9 | year1 = 1985 }}―surpassing [[Dražen Ladić]]'s record set in 1999.<ref>{{cite web |title=Modrić postao najstariji igrač Hrvatske u kvalifikacijama. Srušio je Ladićev rekord |url=https://www.index.hr/sport/clanak/modric-postao-najstariji-igrac-hrvatske-u-kvalifikacijama-srusio-je-ladicev-rekord/2449692.aspx |website=[[Index.hr]] |access-date=26 March 2023 |language=hr |date=25 March 2023}}</ref> |
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On 14 June 2023, Modrić was widely praised for his performance as he led Croatia to victory over Netherlands (4–2, a.e.t.) at the [[De Kuip]] in [[Rotterdam]], in the semi-finals of the [[2023 UEFA Nations League Finals]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.uefa.com/uefanationsleague/match/2035581--netherlands-vs-croatia/|title=Netherlands 2–4 Croatia|publisher=UEFA|access-date=15 June 2023}}</ref> In the match, Modrić won a [[Penalty kick (association football)|penalty]] being brought down by [[Cody Gakpo]], which was converted by [[Andrej Kramarić]]. As the game went to [[Overtime (sports)|extra time]], he assisted [[Bruno Petković]] for the winner and closed the win scoring a penalty himself. Modrić was subsequently named Man of the match.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://as.com/futbol/primera/modric-tambien-es-mister-prorroga-n/|title=Modric también es míster prórroga|publisher=AS Diario|date=15 June 2023|last=Jiménez|first=Juan}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.marca.com/futbol/nations-league/2023/06/14/648a254722601d6e2c8b459a.html|last=Romero|first=V.|publisher=MARCA|title=Lo de Croacia non tiene sentido|date=15 June 2023}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/soccer/report/_/gameId/654360|title=Croatia reach Nations League final after knocking out hosts Netherlands|publisher=ESPN|date=15 June 2023|quote=Modric completed the win with the late spot kick to seal another outstanding individual performance.}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://hns-cff.hr/news/25636/modric-napravili-smo-tek-pola-posla/|title=Kapetan Vatrenih Luka Modrić proglašen je najboljim igračem polufinalne pobjede protiv Nizozemske (4:2) u Ligi nacija.|publisher=Croatian Football Federation|access-date=15 June 2023}}</ref> Modrić finished second place as Croatia eventually lost to Spain 5–4 on penalties in the [[2023 UEFA Nations League final|final]], one of which he scored, following a 0–0 draw after extra time.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2023/jun/18/croatia-spain-nations-league-final-match-report|last=Lowe|first=Sid|work=The Guardian|title=Spain take Nations League final glory after shootout drama to beat Croatia|date=18 June 2023|accessdate=19 June 2023}}</ref> |
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===2024: Euro 2024=== |
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On 20 May 2024, Modrić was included in the final squad for the [[UEFA Euro 2024]].<ref>{{cite news |date=20 May 2024 |title=Croatia head coach Dalić presents preliminary EURO 2024 squad |url=https://hns.team/en/news/27852/croatia-head-coach-dalic-presents-preliminary-euro-2024-squad/ |publisher=[[Croatian Football Federation]] |access-date=30 May 2024}}</ref> He became one of only three players to feature in five European Championships.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.uefa.com/euro2024/news/028e-1b131eaadde2-59e74eb244e8-1000--most-euro-final-tournaments-ronaldo-breaks-new-ground/ | title=Most EURO final tournaments: Ronaldo breaks new ground |publisher=UEFA |date=21 June 2024 }}</ref> In the last [[UEFA Euro 2024 Group B#Croatia vs Italy|group stage]] match against [[Italy national football team|Italy]], he had his penalty saved by [[Gianluigi Donnarumma]], but scored a goal a minute later, becoming the oldest goalscorer at the European competition and overpassing [[Ivica Vastić]] for 32 days.<ref>{{cite web |last=Fahey |first=Ciarán |url=https://apnews.com/article/modric-croatia-euro-82806cbb388fd9aa42a4d71cdb981488 |title=Croatia star Luka Modric is the oldest to ever score at a European Championship. He’s not done yet. |publisher=AP News |date=25 June 2024 }}</ref> However, he was awarded player of the match, despite a stoppage-time equalizer from [[Mattia Zaccagni]] that resulted in a 1–1 draw, which eliminated his team from the tournament.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.uefa.com/euro2024/news/028e-1b3622f2b2f6-790678ad49bd-1000--croatia-1-1-italy-zaccagni-steers-azzurri-into-last-16/ | title=Croatia 1–1 Italy: Zaccagni steers Azzurri into last 16 |publisher=UEFA |date=24 June 2024 }}</ref> |
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==Player profile== |
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===Style of play=== |
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{{Quote_box|width=33%|align=right|quote="Not only is he a very hard worker, he has a good brain and he provided some calmness and composure to the [[midfield]]. His passing was neat and his contribution was outstanding. He was not only winning the ball, he was passing well. We thought that he was very influential. He did not just work hard, he made the other people play well around him".|source=–[[Gérard Houllier]], UEFA Technical Team<ref name="modricman"/>}} |
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A diminutive and technically gifted midfielder, Modrić is typically deployed as a creative [[playmaker]] and sets the tempo of the match by controlling possession from the middle of the pitch. He has been widely applauded by many footballing pundits, managers, and fellow players for his swift passing and long range shots, both often in the style of the ''[[Curl (association football)|trivela]]'' technique, as well as his composure and ability to evade tackles under pressure.<ref name="ESPN">{{cite web |url=http://espnfc.com/player/_/id/76762/luka-modric?cc=5739# |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130819064926/http://espnfc.com/player/_/id/76762/luka-modric?cc=5739 |title=Luka Modrić Bio, Stats, News |archive-date=19 August 2013 |publisher=ESPN |access-date=30 March 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.whoscored.com/Articles/97aPyUoXKk6P6UzqVRMVxw/Show/Modric-at-the-heart-of-Real-Madrids-quest-to-top-group|title=Modric at the heart of Real Madrid's quest to top group|first=Ben|last=McAleer|date=6 December 2016|publisher=WhoScored.com|access-date=14 July 2017}}</ref><ref name="Ice Cold"/><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.ibtimes.com/real-madrid-news-jose-mourinho-warns-his-players-praises-luka-modric-supports-kaka-780597 |title=Real Madrid News: Jose Mourinho Warns His Players, Praises Luka Modric, Supports Kaka |first=Greg |last=Price |date=7 September 2012 |work=International Business Times |access-date=20 January 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/blog/2018/jun/29/ricardo-quaresma-outside-of-boot-goal-liberation-world-cup|title=Quaresma chooses liberation over conformity with outside of his boot|first=Barney|last=Ronay|author-link=Barney Ronay|date=29 June 2018|work=[[The Guardian]]|access-date=13 April 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://bleacherreport.com/articles/270322-luka-modric-to-replace-paul-scholes-at-manchester-united |title=Tottenham Hotspur's Luka Modric To Replace Paul Scholes at Manchester United? |publisher=Bleacher Report |last1=X |first1=Mr |date=11 October 2009 |access-date=13 April 2022}}</ref> He is also noted for his tactical intelligence and versatility in both attack and defence, as well as his vision, interpretation of space, and work rate.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Ajith |first=Shambhu |date=13 April 2022 |title=5 passers with the best vision in world football at the moment (2021–22) |url=https://www.sportskeeda.com/football/5-passers-best-vision-world-football-moment-messi-modric |access-date=27 November 2023 |website=www.sportskeeda.com |language=en-gb}}</ref> A former [[attacking midfielder]], Modrić is considered a veteran of the "pre-[[Assist (association football)|assist]]" or build-up play, often creating space and time for his teammates to shoot or deliver goal-bound passes to other players.<ref name="TheHail2017">{{cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/blog/2017/may/12/luka-modric-real-madrid-barney-ronay|title=All hail Luka Modric, the maestro who makes Real Madrid's superstars tick|first=Barney|last=Ronay|author-link=Barney Ronay|date=12 May 2017|work=[[The Guardian]]|access-date=14 July 2017}}</ref><ref name="Matchett">{{cite news|url=http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2649702-a-complete-tactical-profile-of-real-madrid-midfielder-luka-modric|title=A Complete Tactical Profile of Real Madrid Midfielder Luka Modric|first=Karl|last=Matchett|date=2 July 2016|publisher=[[Bleacher Report]]|access-date=15 July 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.fourfourtwo.com/features/fourfourtwos-best-100-football-players-world-2016-no12-luka-modric|title=FourFourTwo's Best 100 Football Players In The World 2016: No. 12 – Luka Modric|first=Seb|last=Stafford-Bloor|date=1 December 2016|website=[[FourFourTwo]]|access-date=15 July 2017}}</ref><ref name="star dell'Europeo">{{cite news |url=https://www.gazzetta.it/fitness/allenamento/storie/12-06-2021/euro-2020-mbappe-cr7-com-cambiato-fisico-piu-forti-4101680712916/luka-modric.shtml?app_v1=true |title=Mbappé, CR7, Kane e… guarda icom'è cambiato il fisico delle star dell'Europeo |trans-title=Mbappé, CR7, Kane and... look how the physiques of the stars of the European Championships have changed |work=La Gazzetta dello Sport |language=It |date=12 June 2021 |access-date=15 April 2022 }}</ref> He is also effective at taking [[Set piece (football)|set pieces]], particularly [[Corner kick|corner]]s or wide [[Free kick (association football)|free kick]]s.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.marca.com/en/football/real-madrid/2018/07/19/5b4f7e28ca4741e5348b456f.html |title=Real Madrid: Who will take Real Madrid's freekicks now? |work=Marca|location=Spain |date=19 July 2018 |access-date=6 July 2020}}</ref> |
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Modrić has been integral to the success of both Real Madrid and the Croatia national team, having won numerous individual honours for his contributions to club and country.<ref name="CollinsTim"/><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.unibet.co.uk/blog/football/la-liga/from-worst-signing-in-la-liga-to-the-best-midfielder-in-the-world-how-real-madrid-s-luka-modric-proved-them-all-wrong-1.940165|title=From worst signing in La Liga to the best midfielder in the world- How Real Madrid's Luka Modric proved them all wrong|last=Heneage|first=Kristan|website=unibet.co.uk|access-date=6 July 2018|quote=Modric is the conductor, he controls the play. He knows when to run, and when to pass. He creates, and even though he may not apply the killer touch or the final ball, he often plays a part.}}</ref> His playstyle has earned him several nicknames as dubbed by the media and fandom, including "the midfield maestro", "the magician", "the puppet master", among others.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://sport360.com/article/football/la-liga/219518/la-liga-puppet-master-luka-modric-strings-real-madrid-together/|title=La Liga: Puppet-master Luka Modric strings Real Madrid together – Article – Sport360|last=West|first=Andy|date=21 January 2017|website=sport360.com|access-date=6 July 2018}}</ref><ref name="TheHail2017"/><ref>{{Cite news|url=http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2731305-10-games-which-proved-why-luka-modric-is-the-midfield-maestro |title=10 Games That Proved Why Luka Modric Is the Midfield Maestro|last=Matchett|first=Karl|date=9 September 2017|work=Bleacher Report|access-date=6 July 2018}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.eurosport.com/football/champions-league/2015-2016/luka-modric-the-elegant-maestro-dictating-from-deep_sto5611605/story.shtml |title=Luka Modric: The elegant maestro dictating from deep|last=Wilson|first=Jonathan|date=27 May 2016|work=Eurosport|access-date=6 July 2018}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.24sata.hr/sport/dok-je-ramos-kakao-maestro-modric-eibaru-prodao-cevape-564174|title=Dok je Ramos kakao, maestro Modrić Eibaru 'prodao ćevape'|last=Lovrić|first=Dejan|access-date=6 July 2018|language=hr}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=4 January 2024 |title=Luka Modric: The Artistic Maestro of Midfield Brilliance |url=https://www.inkl.com/news/luka-modric-the-artistic-maestro-of-midfield-brilliance |access-date=27 January 2024 |website=inkl |language=en}}</ref> |
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===Position=== |
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Modrić's complex game has brought him consistent success in the clubs for which he has played. Initially a [[trequartista]] or attacking midfielder at Dinamo Zagreb and in his early career at Tottenham, in the 2010–11 season he flourished in a central midfield role as a [[deep-lying playmaker]] (regista) who conducts the attack and creates chances for teammates.<ref name="WhoscoredAsset11">{{cite news|url=https://www.whoscored.com/Articles/yJdnBMtCW0WN_pmJ7bcMfQ/Show/How-Luka-Modrics-Contribution-Makes-him-Tottenhams-Irreplaceable-Asset|title=How Luka Modric's Contribution Makes him Tottenham's Irreplaceable Asset |first=Chris |last=Davie|date=20 June 2011|publisher=WhoScored.com|access-date=14 July 2017}}</ref> Afterwards, Modrić acknowledged the role that [[Harry Redknapp]] played in shaping of deep-lying his style, saying that dropping back enabled him "to read the game better" and show his full "creativity".<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/live/football/46403701 |title=Ballon d'Or – Modric & Hegerberg win: Live reporting|date=3 December 2018|work=BBC Sport |access-date=3 December 2018}}</ref> Although a [[central midfielder]], Modrić is also a hard-working player who has been seen to adopt a [[defensive midfield]] role in addition to playmaking, tracking back to win the ball from the opposition and prepare for a counter-attack, making him one of the most versatile players in the world, capable of playing in several [[Midfielder|midfield]] positions.<ref name="modricability">{{cite web |url=https://www.fifa.com/confederationscup/news/newsid=798144.html |title=Modrić the key man for Bilić |date=11 June 2008 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081014033350/http://www.fifa.com/confederationscup/news/newsid%3D798144.html |archive-date=14 October 2008 |publisher=FIFA |access-date=9 July 2008 |url-status=dead }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.realmadrid.com/en/football/squad/luka-modric|title=I can play anywhere in midfield|publisher=Real Madrid CF|access-date=15 August 2016}}</ref> According to [[Jonathan Wilson (writer)|Jonathan Wilson]], in a 4–2–3–1 system Modrić is a third type of a [[holding midfielder]], being "neither entirely destructive or creative", but a "carrier" who – courtesy of his dribbling ability and attacking drive – is "capable of making late runs or carrying the ball at his feet", but in his case "with a hint of ''regista''".<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/blog/2013/dec/18/question-holding-midfielders-changing-role|title=The Question: what does the changing role of holding midfielders tell us?|first=Jonathan|last=Wilson|author-link=Jonathan Wilson (writer)|date=18 December 2013|work=[[The Guardian]]|access-date=15 July 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.reuters.com/article/uk-soccer-worldcup-cro-eng-preview-idUKKBN1K0191 |title=Croatia v England – key head-to-head battles |work=Reuters |date=10 July 2018 |access-date=15 April 2022 }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.corriere.it/sport/18_dicembre_03/soffiata-social-modric-ha-vinto-pallone-d-oro-2018-12e601fe-f72a-11e8-a0e5-db54dd349ca5.shtml |title=Modric vince il Pallone d'Oro. Sul podio Ronaldo e Griezmann |trans-title=Modric wins the Ballon d'Or. Ronaldo and Griezmann on the podium |work=Corriere della Sera |language=it |last1=Tomaselli |first1=Paolo |date=12 March 2018 |access-date=15 April 2022 }}</ref> As such, his role has also been likened to that of a ''[[mezzala]]'', in Italian football jargon, namely an offensive–minded [[box-to-box]] or central midfielder.<ref name="star dell'Europeo"/> |
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The switch to a more deep-lying position reduced his number of assists and goals, as well as his shot per game count (1.2), although his game was no longer based on being a goal threat; despite this, he had the second-highest count of key passes per game (2.06) in the team, as well as a very high pass accuracy rate (87%), with the highest passes per game count (62.5) in the team, the most long balls per game (5.6), the most successful [[Dribbling#Association football|dribbles]] (2.2), interceptions (2.5), and the highest tackle (1.9) count per game among others, high statistics which placed him amongst the top midfielders of the Premier League.<ref name="WhoscoredAsset11"/><ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.whoscored.com/Articles/Fs802IjP7UWbK6h6pNZS1Q/Show/Luka-Modric-Tottenham-Hotspur-Chelsea |title=What Makes Luka Modric So Much in Demand?|first=Paul|last=McKinnon|date=15 July 2011|publisher=WhoScored.com|access-date=14 July 2017}}</ref> By the 2011–12 season statistically he was among the top-rated central and all-round midfielders across the [[Big Five (association football)|top five leagues]], alongside players like [[Xabi Alonso]], [[Andrea Pirlo]], [[Bastian Schweinsteiger]] and [[Xavi (footballer, born 1980)|Xavi]].<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.whoscored.com/Articles/a2EwS3-hu0K4oazz_cA0Bw/Show/Stats-Analysis-WhoScoreds-Top-Rated-Centre-Midfielders|title=Stats Analysis: WhoScored's Top Rated Centre-Midfielders|first=Paul|last=McKinnon|date=13 March 2012 |publisher=WhoScored.com|access-date=14 July 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.whoscored.com/Articles/6O4clfgsHU-Bp0OYzB7u3w/Show/Stats-Analysis-Europes-Best-All-Round-Midfielders|title=Stats Analysis: Europe's Best All-Round Midfielders|first=Martin|last=Laurence|date=26 March 2012 |publisher=WhoScored.com|access-date=14 July 2017}}</ref> |
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Upon Modrić's arrival to Real Madrid, his midfield position was described as [[Squad number (association football)|numbers]] six (defensive), eight (central) or ten (attacking), depending on the tactics,<ref name="Mourinho on LM">{{cite web |url=http://www.totalfootballmag.com/other-news/champions-league/mourinho-vows-to-deliver-another-european-cup/ |title=Mourinho vows to deliver another European Cup |publisher=Total Football Magazine |access-date=21 July 2013 |archive-date=26 July 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180726072343/http://www.totalfootballmag.com/other-news/champions-league/mourinho-vows-to-deliver-another-european-cup |url-status=dead }}</ref> and his role was described as the second deep-lying pivot alongside Xabi Alonso in the 2012–13 season, a classic deep-lying playmaker whose creativity was needed to dictate his team's play and unlock the opposing defence.<ref name="SN Plan C">{{cite web |url=http://sportske.jutarnji.hr/champions-league-magazin--modric-treba-realu-za-plan-c/1056484/ |title=Modrić treba Realu za plan C |trans-title=Modric needs to Real for plan C |date=27 September 2012 |work=Sportske Novosti |access-date=31 March 2013 |language=hr |archive-date=5 October 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121005013204/http://sportske.jutarnji.hr/champions-league-magazin--modric-treba-realu-za-plan-c/1056484/ |url-status=dead }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.sbnation.com/soccer/2013/5/3/4296400/real-madrid-luka-modric-xabi-alonso |title=Why Luka Modric, not Xabi Alonso, should be Real Madrid's heartbeat |first=Tim |last=Palmer |date=3 May 2013 |work=SB Nation |access-date=20 January 2016}}</ref> In the first half of the 2013–14 season, during which he formed an effective central midfield partnership with Alonso and [[Ángel Di María]], Modrić made more tackles (56) than any other Real Madrid player in La Liga with an average number of 2.86 tackles per match, as well as making the most completed passes (878) in the opposition half of the pitch among Real Madrid players, with the highest passing accuracy in La Liga (90%) (also the highest of any midfielder in Europe's top five leagues who have made five or more assists during the season).<ref name="BBC Interview2014"/> In the 2014–15 season, with the arrival of [[Toni Kroos]], Real Madrid no longer had an effective and natural ball-winner alongside their playmakers in midfield, while the team possessed many attackers. Therefore, in addition to producing the highest count of passes (60.7–64.7) and key passes per match (0.8–1.2) within the team, both Modrić and Kroos had more defensive responsibility to set the rhythm of the team's gameplay in midfield and orchestrate counterattacks.<ref name="Tweedale2014"/><ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.whoscored.com/Articles/N15dojDE1EiarA8ocCsspA/Show/Player-Focus-Majestic-Modric-Essential-in-Zidanes-Real-Madrid-Setup|title=Player Focus: Majestic Modric Essential in Zidane's Real Madrid Setup|first=Ben|last=McAleer|date=17 February 2016|publisher=WhoScored.com|access-date=14 July 2017}}</ref> Modrić's average passing accuracy during the season was between 91.6 and 92%, while his highest completion rate in a single match occurred in October against Barcelona when he completed all 42 attempted passes.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.whoscored.com/Articles/WxI4LOEBY0yB1BBB0hhEYg/Show/Team-Focus-Madrids-Progression-Sees-Them-Beat-Barca-at-Their-Own-Game|title=Team Focus: Madrid's Progression Sees Them Beat Barca at Their Own Game |first=Dermot |last=Corrigan |date=28 October 2014|publisher=WhoScored.com|access-date=14 July 2017}}</ref> For all of 2014, Modrić's dribble attempts (75) at a success rate of 76% were second in Europe's top five leagues.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.whoscored.com/Articles/iAZcgfcEIkqg0lsc7SqWSQ/Show/Player-Focus-The-Stats-Leaders-You-May-Not-Have-Seen-in-2014|title=Player Focus: The Stats Leaders You May Not Have Seen in 2014|first=Martin|last=Laurence|date=30 December 2014|publisher=WhoScored.com|access-date=14 July 2017}}</ref> During the 2015–16 season, although he placed only 12th in terms of chances created, almost all players above him were either forwards or attacking midfielders with no defensive responsibilities.<ref name="Matchett"/> |
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===Reception=== |
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[[File:Luka Modric - Croatia vs. Portugal, 10th June 2013 (2).jpg|thumb|left|Considered the most versatile and critical member of the national team, Modrić's technical ability has been heralded by both players and coaches.]] |
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Modrić is widely regarded as one of the best and most well-rounded and effective midfielders of all time.<ref>[https://www.goal.com/en/amp/news/iniesta-hails-former-clasico-rival-modric-one-of-best-real-madrid-barcelona/blt1d0db4ba9e78f1b7 Iniesta hails former Clasico rival Modric as one of the best midfielders of all time] GOAL. Soham Mukherjee 1 November 2022</ref><ref>[https://www.goal.com/en/lists/modric-xavi-pirlo-and-the-top-20-central-midfielders-in-history/1ebm4kahfrrtd17w5bdqswh133 Modric, Xavi, Pirlo and the top 20 central midfielders in history] GOAL. Mark Doyle & Carlo Garganese 14 November 2018</ref><ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.totalsportal.com/athletes/greatest-central-midfielders-in-football/ | title=Ranking the Top 10 Greatest Central Midfielders in football History | date=7 January 2022 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.sportskeeda.com/amp/football/10-greatest-midfielders-time-pirlo-iniesta-modric | title=10 greatest midfielders of all time | date=12 February 2021 }}</ref><ref name=xx1/> According to Jonathan Wilson, what sets Modrić apart from traditional playmakers is his simultaneous focus on defensive and attacking duties.<ref>{{cite news |first=Jonathan |last=Wilson |url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/2298554/Luka-Modrics-finesse-can-work-for-Spurs.html |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20220111/https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/2298554/Luka-Modrics-finesse-can-work-for-Spurs.html |archive-date=11 January 2022 |url-access=subscription |url-status=live|title=Luka Modric's finesse can work for Spurs|author-link=Jonathan Wilson (writer)|date=27 April 2008|work=[[The Daily Telegraph]]|access-date=15 July 2017}}{{cbignore}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |first=Jonathan|last=Wilson|author-link=Jonathan Wilson (writer) |url=https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2008/may/06/croatiafootballteam.europeanfootball |title=Modric maps a future for the old-school playmaker |date=6 May 2008 |work=[[The Guardian]]|access-date=15 July 2017}}</ref> Due to his footballing intelligence, skill and fairplay he was compared to [[Paul Scholes]],<ref name="Fergie">{{cite web |url=https://www.espn.com/soccer/news/story/_/id/1029903/sir-alex-ferguson:-luka-modric-has-same-qualities-as-paul-scholes |title=Ferguson: Modric has Scholes class |date=3 March 2012 |publisher=ESPN |access-date=31 March 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.jutarnji.hr/sir-alex-ferguson----zelio-sam-luku-modrica--on-je-posteni-igrac-koji-nikad-ne-simulira-/1136543/ |title=Hrvat u Sir Alexovoj Knjizi Ferguson: "Želio sam Modrića, on nikad ne simulira" |trans-title=Croat in book by Sir Alex Ferguson: "I wanted Modrić, he never simulates" |date=30 October 2013 |publisher=Jutarnji List |access-date=2 May 2014 |language=hr}}</ref> Xavi, [[Andrés Iniesta]],<ref name="Piksi">{{cite web |url=http://sportske.jutarnji.hr/piksi-stojkovic-za-sn---modric-je-uz-xavija-i-iniestu-najinteligentniji-veznjak-svijeta--/1092068/ |title=Piksi Stojković: 'Modrić je uz Xavija i Iniestu najinteligentniji veznjak svijeta!' |trans-title=Piksi Stojković 'Modrić with Xavi and Iniesta is most intelligent midfielder in the world!' |last=Juranović |first=Tomislav |date=20 March 2013 |publisher=Sportske Novosti |access-date=31 March 2013 |language=hr |archive-date=23 March 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130323085759/http://sportske.jutarnji.hr/piksi-stojkovic-za-sn---modric-je-uz-xavija-i-iniestu-najinteligentniji-veznjak-svijeta--/1092068 |url-status=dead }}</ref> and Andrea Pirlo.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://football-italia.net/bilic-modric-better-than-pirlo/ |title=Bilic: 'Modric better than Pirlo' |publisher=Football Italia |last1=Campanale |first1=Susy |date=13 June 2012 |access-date=13 April 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.thescore.com/chlg/news/1415841 |title=How Pirlo changed football as the playmaker of his generation |publisher=theScore.com |last1=Lopopolo |first1=Anthony |date=6 November 2017 |access-date=13 April 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://bleacherreport.com/articles/1946276-how-luka-modric-changed-the-juergen-klopp-paradigm |title=How Luka Modric Changed the Jurgen Klopp Paradigm |publisher=Bleacher Report |last1=Holiga |first1=Aleksandar |date=3 February 2014 |access-date=13 April 2022}}</ref> In his youth, he had also been compared to [[Johan Cruyff]],<ref name="Dutch"/><ref name="CruyffMarca"/> while his main influences were compatriot Zvonimir Boban and Italian playmaker Francesco Totti.<ref name="ready to play"/> |
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He has been praised for being an essential part of his team's wins, especially in the most important tournaments. For example, his performance against [[Paris Saint-Germain F.C.|PSG]] in leg two of the round of 16 in the [[2021–22 UEFA Champions League|UCL]] in 2022 was called one of the "most imperious midfielder performances".<ref name=":2">{{Cite web |last=Hopkins |first=Oliver |date=10 March 2022 |title=A Modric Masterclass: How the Midfield Magician Pulled Apart PSG |url=https://theanalyst.com/2022/03/a-modric-masterclass-how-the-midfield-magician-pulled-apart-psg/ |access-date=28 November 2023 |website=The Analyst |language=en}}</ref> He was praised for his touch, playmaking skills, passing, defense and vision, with his efforts being essential to Real Madrid's win.<ref name=":2" /> Another match in which he gained praise, was in the [[2022 FIFA World Cup]], where Modrić provided another standout performance to help [[Croatia national football team|Croatia]] beat favorites [[Brazil national football team|Brazil]] in the quarterfinals.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Sobhani |first=Kiyan |date=9 December 2022 |title=Luka Modric puts in heroic performance as Croatia beat Brazil and advance to World Cup semi-finals |url=https://www.managingmadrid.com/2022/12/9/23501982/luka-modric-puts-in-heroic-performance-as-croatia-beat-brazil-and-advance-to-world-cup-semi-finals |access-date=28 November 2023 |website=www.managingmadrid.com |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Smith |first=Peter |date=9 December 2022 |title=Luka Modric's masterclass helps tireless Croatia outlast Brazil and reach World Cup semi-finals again |url=https://www.skysports.com/amp/football/news/13950/12765078/luka-modrics-masterclass-helps-tireless-croatia-outlast-brazil-and-reach-world-cup-semi-finals-again |access-date=28 November 2023 |website=Sky Sports |language=en}}</ref> |
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He has been consistently praised by some of the sport's most experienced managers, including Johan Cruyff,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://sportske.jutarnji.hr/cruyff-konacano-progovorio-o-nasljedniku---modric-ima-ogromnu-kvalitetu--treba-mu-dati-slobodu-/1092078/ |title=Cruyff o nasljedniku: 'Luka Modrić ima ogromnu kvalitetu, treba mu dati slobodu' |trans-title=Cruyff's successor: 'Luka Modrić has a huge quality, he should be given the freedom' |first=Robert |last=Matteoni |date=20 March 2013 |publisher=Sportske Novosti |access-date=31 March 2013 |language=hr |archive-date=23 March 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130323004352/http://sportske.jutarnji.hr/cruyff-konacano-progovorio-o-nasljedniku---modric-ima-ogromnu-kvalitetu--treba-mu-dati-slobodu-/1092078/ |url-status=dead }}</ref> [[Alex Ferguson]],<ref name="Fergie"/> [[Pep Guardiola]],<ref>{{cite web |url=http://sportske.jutarnji.hr/guardiola-godinama-prica-o-modricu/916970/ |title=Direktor Barce za SN: 'Guardiola obožava Modrića, već godinama priča o njemu!' |trans-title=Director of Barca for SN: 'Guardiola loves Modrić, for years talks about him!' |first=Dean |last=Bauer |date=11 January 2011 |publisher=Sportske Novosti |access-date=31 March 2013 |language=hr}}</ref> and [[Sven-Göran Eriksson]] among others.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://sportski.net.hr/nogomet/reprezentacija/eriksson-luka-je-igrac-za-barcelonu-nikako-za-real |title=Luka Modrić je igrač za Barcelonu, nikako za Real! |trans-title=Luka Modrić is a player for Barcelona, not for Real! |date=18 July 2012 |work=sportski.net.hr |access-date=31 March 2013 |language=hr}}</ref> From those who managed him, [[José Mourinho]] said he wanted Modrić in Real Madrid because of his influence on the game, tactical level and because he has "that artistic sense".<ref name="Mourinho on LM"/> [[Carlo Ancelotti]] praised Modrić's technique and versatility making him "one of the best midfielders in the world right now, because he can play in more than one position".<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.marca.com/2013/05/23/en/football/real_madrid/1369295645.html |title=Ancelotti, a great admirer of Modric |date=23 May 2012 |work=Marca|location=Spain|access-date=13 August 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/teams/tottenham-hotspur/9395211/Tottenhams-Luka-Modric-receives-high-praise-from-PSG-coach-Carlo-Ancelotti-as-clubs-jostle-for-his-signature.html |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20220111/https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/teams/tottenham-hotspur/9395211/Tottenhams-Luka-Modric-receives-high-praise-from-PSG-coach-Carlo-Ancelotti-as-clubs-jostle-for-his-signature.html |archive-date=11 January 2022 |url-access=subscription |url-status=live |title=Tottenham's Luka Modric receives high praise from PSG coach Carlo Ancelotti as club's jostle for his signature |date=12 July 2012 |work=The Daily Telegraph |access-date=31 March 2013}}{{cbignore}}</ref> [[Zinedine Zidane]] included him in his best XI currently playing the game,<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/news-and-comment/zinedine-zidane-best-xi-who-joins-usual-suspects-cristiano-ronaldo-and-lionel-messi-in-the-former-9928657.html |title=Zinedine Zidane best XI: Who joins usual suspects Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi in the former Real Madrid legend's dream team |first=Jack de |last=Menezes |date=16 December 2014 |work=The Independent |access-date=20 January 2016}}</ref> and in 2016 predicted that Modrić would win Ballon d'Or.<ref name="MarcaFFInterview"/> [[Slaven Bilić]] said Modrić "is a player who makes others better, they all benefit from him being in the team. He's not selfish, he's playing for the team ... he's a complete player; good in defence, good in offence—it looks like he was born with the ball at his feet".<ref name="Ice Cold"/> |
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Modrić is unanimously considered the greatest Croatian footballer of all time by his fellow countrymen, including people like [[Robert Prosinečki]] and [[Davor Šuker]].<ref name="Stand"/><ref>{{cite news |url=https://sportske.jutarnji.hr/rusija2018/legendarni-zuti-zna-kako-protiv-argentine-jedan-vatreni-imat-ce-veliku-odgovornost-uspije-li-u-tome-imamo-izgleda-ako-ne-slijedi-nam-patnja/7504956/ |title=Legendarni 'Žuti' Zna Kako Protiv Argentine: Jedan Vatreni imat će veliku odgovornost: 'Uspije li u tome imamo izgleda, ako ne, slijedi nam patnja' |date=21 June 2018 |publisher=[[Jutarnji List]] |access-date=21 June 2018}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.nytimes.com/aponline/2018/06/29/sports/soccer/ap-soc-wcup-croatia-rakitic.html |title=Modric From 'Different Planet', Says Rakitic |date=29 June 2018 |work=The New York Times |access-date=29 June 2018 |quote=The technically gifted Prosinecki has long been seen as Croatia's all-time best player, but even he has recently said Modric surpasses him... "If Robert Prosinecki said that, it has to be true because nobody knows about football more than Prosinecki. And I would agree with him completely," Rakitic said. "Not only that Luka is the best player ever, but he is a great person, a leader and we are following him."}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.zadarskilist.hr/clanci/24082018/suker-luka-modric-je-najveci-hrvatski-nogometas-svih-vremena|title=Šuker: Luka Modrić je najveći hrvatski nogometaš svih vremena!|trans-title=Šuker: Luka Modrić is the greatest Croatian footballer of all time!|date=24 August 2018|author=Marko Cvijanović|language=hr|newspaper=[[Zadarski list]]|access-date=2 September 2018}}</ref> [[Predrag Mijatović]] considered him as the best footballer in the history of the [[Balkans]],<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.vecernji.hr/sport/mijatovic-otkrio-da-se-svaki-dan-cuje-s-modricem-on-je-najbolji-u-povijest-balkana-1257805|title=Legenda Reala svaki dan se čuje s Modrićem: On je najbolji u povijesti Balkana |
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|trans-title=The Real Madrid legend talks to Modrić every day: He is the best in the history of the Balkans|author=Hrvoje Delač|work=Večernji list|language=hr|date=11 July 2018|access-date=24 December 2022}}</ref> while [[Andrés Iniesta]], [[Andriy Shevchenko]], [[Rio Ferdinand]], [[Jan Oblak]], and others called him one of the greatest midfielders to ever play the game.<ref>{{cite news |last=Mukherjee |first=Soham |date=1 November 2022 |title=Iniesta hails former Clasico rival Modric as one of the best midfielders of all time |url=https://www.goal.com/en/news/iniesta-hails-former-clasico-rival-modric-one-of-best-real-madrid-barcelona/blt1d0db4ba9e78f1b7 |work=[[Goal.com]] |access-date=5 December 2022}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.squawka.com/news/luka-modric-is-one-of-the-best-midfielders-ever-shevchenko/996710#rLmFVDgHM5BAkHv3.97|title=Luka Modric is 'one of the best midfielders ever' – Shevchenko|work=Squawka Football News|access-date=7 March 2018}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|last=J. B.|date=24 March 2021|title=Oblak: "Modrić je jedan od najboljih svih vremena. Valjda će još igrati da možemo uživati"|url=https://gol.dnevnik.hr/clanak/rubrika/nogomet/oblak-modric-je-jedan-od-najboljih-svih-vremena-valjda-ce-jos-igrati-da-mozemo-uzivati---645280.html|access-date=25 March 2021|website=Gol.hr|language=hr}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|date=14 April 2022|title=Legendarni Englez nije toliko lud za Modrićem: Jedan igrač bio je razinu iznad njega|url=https://www.vecernji.hr/sport/legendarni-englez-nije-toliko-lud-za-modricem-jedan-igrac-bio-je-razinu-iznad-njega-1578845|access-date=24 December 2022|website=[[Večernji list]]|language=hr}}</ref> |
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It is considered that his international recognition helped in [[nation branding]] of [[Croatia]], [[place branding]] of [[Zadar]] and further recognition of [[Croatia national football team]] under his captaincy.<ref>{{Cite thesis|url=https://zir.nsk.hr/islandora/object/fpzg:1219|last=Duvnjak|first=Katarina|title=Brendiranje nogometaša – studija slučaja Luke Modrića|lang=hr|trans-title=Branding of Football Players: The Case of Luka Modrić|publisher=Faculty of Political Sciences, University of Zagreb|year=2020|pages=26–33}}</ref><ref>{{Cite thesis|url=https://zir.nsk.hr/islandora/object/bak:659|title=Analiza marketinške komunikacije – Hrvatska nogometna reprezentacija u Rusiji 2018.|last=Mamić|first=Josipa|trans-title=Marketing Communication Analysis – Croatian Football Team in Russia 2018|lang=hr|year=2019|location=Zaprešić|publisher=Veleučilište s pravom javnosti Baltazar Zaprešić}}</ref> |
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==Personal life== |
==Personal life== |
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Modrić married Vanja Bosnić in May 2010 in the Croatian capital [[Zagreb]] in a private ceremony after four years of dating,<ref>{{cite web |title=Luka Modrić i njegova trudna djevojka vjenčali se u tajnosti |trans-title=Luka Modrić and his pregnant girlfriend married in secret |url=https://www.vecernji.hr/showbiz/luka-modric-i-njegova-trudna-djevojka-vjencali-se-u-tajnosti-139586 |publisher=Večernji list |date=12 May 2010 |language=hr |access-date=17 July 2018}}</ref> and a year later in the [[Catholic Church]].<ref>{{cite web |title=Vanja i Luka Modrić pripremili vjenčanje godine |trans-title=Vanja and Luka Modrić prepared a marriage of the year |url=https://www.vecernji.hr/sport/vanja-i-luka-modric-pripremili-vjencanje-godine-299413 |publisher=Večernji list |date=11 June 2011 |language=hr |access-date=17 July 2018}}</ref> They have three children.<ref name="Football star Luka Modric becomes a father">{{cite web |title=Football star Luka Modric becomes a father |url=http://www.croatiantimes.com/?id=11461 |work=Croatian Times |date=7 June 2010 |access-date=25 July 2012}}</ref><ref name="Modric family idyll">{{cite web |title=Obiteljska idila Luke Modrića |trans-title=Family idyll of Luka Modrić |url=http://www.gloria.hr/obiteljska-idila-luke-modrica/ |publisher=Gloria |date=9 June 2013 |language=hr |access-date=12 June 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Vanja i Luka Modrić kćer nazvali Ema |trans-title=Vanja and Luka Modrić named daughter Ema |url=http://www.vecernji.hr/scena/vanja-luka-modric-kcer-nazvali-ema-clanak-547381 |publisher=Večernji list |date=2 May 2013 |language=hr |access-date=12 June 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Luka Modrić nakon dva tjedna napokon pokazao kćerkicu preslatkog imena |trans-title=After two weeks Luka Modric finally showed the daughter with adorable name |url=http://www.gloria.hr/fokus/zvjezdane-staze/luka-modric-nakon-dva-tjedna-napokon-pokazao-kcerkicu-preslatkog-imena/6651792/ |publisher=Gloria |date=16 October 2017 |language=hr |access-date=17 October 2017}}</ref> Modrić is a cousin of Australian footballer [[Mark Viduka]],<ref>[https://books.google.com/books?id=BLNg_4jTzrwC&dq=bask+gradjanski&pg=PA46 The Away Game] by Matthew Hall, pag. 45</ref> and the godfather of [[Mateo Kovačić]]'s son Ivan.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Serdarević |first1=Neva |title=Mateo i Izabel Kovačić krstili su sinčića, Luka Modrić mu je kum |url=https://www.24sata.hr/show/mateo-i-izabel-kovacic-krstili-su-sincica-luka-modric-mu-je-kum-773226 |website=24sata |access-date=4 August 2021 |language=hr |date=12 July 2021}}</ref> Modrić generally maintains a low profile outside of football.<ref name="BBC Interview2014" /><ref>{{cite web |title=Modric lives the quiet life |url=http://www.marca.com/2014/02/10/en/football/real_madrid/1392064799.html |work=Marca|location=Spain|date=10 February 2014 |access-date=28 September 2014}}</ref> |
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Modrić married Vanja Bosnić in May 2010 in the Croatian capital, [[Zagreb]], after four years of dating. His teammate at the time, [[Vedran Ćorluka]], was his best man.<ref name="Tottenham Star Luka Modric Wedding Bells">{{cite web |
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| title = Tottenham Star Luka Modric Wedding Bells |
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In late 2019, Modrić released his [[autobiography]] ''Moja igra'' (''My Game''), co-written by prominent Croatian-Italian sports journalist Robert Matteoni.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Autobiografija Luke Modrića 'Moja igra' od danas u prodaji u cijeloj Hrvatskoj|url=https://www.tportal.hr/kultura/clanak/autobiografija-luke-modrica-moja-igra-od-danas-u-prodaji-u-cijeloj-hrvatskoj-20191104|last=D. A. M.|date=4 November 2019|website=Tportal.hr|language=hr|trans-title=Luka Modrić's autobiography ''My Game'' on sale in all of Croatia as of today|access-date=25 May 2020}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|last=Rojnić|first=Goran|date=13 October 2019|title=Pulski sportski novinar koautor je autobiografije najboljeg svjetskog igrača u 2018. godini|language=hr|trans-title=Sports journalist from Pula is the co-author of the autobiography of the world's best footballer of 2018|work=Glas Istre|url=https://www.glasistre.hr/pula/pulski-sportski-novinar-koautor-je-autobiografije-najboljeg-svjetskog-igraca-u-2018-godini-robert-matteoni-mislim-da-ce-hrvatska-tek-postati-svjesna-globalne-sportske-velicine-luke-modrica-599381|access-date=25 May 2020}}</ref> Particular emphasis in autobiography was placed on Modrić's [[childhood]], growing up in war conditions and development of a football career, with fundamental topics being football, family and friends.<ref>{{Cite thesis|url=https://zir.nsk.hr/islandora/object/fpzg:1275|last=Džakmić|first=Vehmir|title=Narativ djetinjstva u autobiografiji Luke Modrića|trans-title=The Narrative of Childhood in the Autobiography of Luka Modrić|publisher=Faculty of Political Sciences, University of Zagreb|year=2020|lang=hr}}</ref> |
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| url = http://www.croatiantimes.com/?id=19901 |
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| publisher = Croatian Times |
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Produced by [[Fulwell 73]], [[FIFA]] released ''Captains'' in 2022, an eight-part sports [[docuseries]] following six national team captains in their respective [[2022 FIFA World Cup qualification]] campaigns.<ref name=":02">{{Cite web |date=12 April 2022 |title=FIFA launches FIFA+ to bring free football entertainment to fans everywhere |url=https://www.fifa.com/about-fifa/organisation/media-releases/fifa-launches-fifa-to-bring-free-football-entertainment-to-fans-everywhere |access-date=17 October 2022 |website=[[FIFA]]}}</ref> Modrić, representing Croatia, starred in the first season alongside five other international footballers. It was released by [[Netflix]] and also shown on FIFA's own streaming platform, [[FIFA+]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Zaazaa |first=Bassam |date=14 October 2022 |title=Lebanon's captain Hassan Maatouk to star in Netflix football documentary |url=https://www.arabnews.com/node/2181136/sport |access-date=17 October 2022 |website=[[Arab News]]}}</ref> |
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| date = June 12, 2011 |
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| accessdate = 25 July 2012}}</ref> Their son, Ivano, was born on 6 June 2010.<ref name="Football star Luka Modric becomes a father">{{cite web |
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===Legal issues=== |
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| title = Football star Luka Modric becomes a father |
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In March 2018, in an [[embezzlement]] and [[tax evasion]] trial against the former Dinamo Zagreb executive, [[Zdravko Mamić]], Modrić was called as a witness.<ref name=":0" /> Throughout the mid-late 2000s, Modrić signed multiple contracts with Mamić to play at Dinamo Zagreb.<ref>{{cite news|author=Holiga|first=Aleksandar|date=7 June 2018|title=How Luka Modric and Dejan Lovren got caught up in Croatian corruption case|work=The Guardian|url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2018/jun/07/how-luka-modric-and-dejan-lovren-got-caught-up-in-croatian-corruption-world-cup-football|access-date=12 July 2018}}</ref><ref name="SkyBate">{{cite news|author=Bate|first=Adam|date=13 July 2018|title=Luka Modric on the brink of glory but Zdravko Mamic complicates it|publisher=Sky Sports|url=http://www.skysports.com/football/news/13950/11434116/luka-modric-on-the-brink-of-glory-but-zdravko-mamic-complicates-it|access-date=13 July 2018}}</ref> Modrić [[wiktionary:annex|annexed]] most of his Tottenham transfer fee to Mamić because he was the broker of the move and gave Modrić financial backing early on in his career.<ref>{{cite magazine|author=Wilson|first=Jonathan|date=13 July 2018|title=Luka Modric's Croatia Success Story Comes With Complications|magazine=Sports Illustrated|url=https://www.si.com/soccer/2018/07/13/luka-modric-croatia-world-cup-final-ballon-dor-perjury-charges|access-date=14 July 2018}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|author=Palmer|first=Kevin|date=4 July 2018|title='The stench of death that was never far away' – Luka Modric's brutal childhood makes his rise to the top all the more remarkable|work=Irish Independent|url=https://www.independent.ie/sport/soccer/world-cup-2018/the-stench-of-death-that-was-never-far-away-luka-modrics-brutal-childhood-makes-his-rise-to-the-top-all-the-more-remarkable-37079829.html|access-date=12 July 2018}}</ref> Despite stating in 2017 that he signed the annexe clause of the contract ten years earlier, in his testimony he stated that he signed it in 2004, the year of his first contract. Modrić was [[Criminal charge|charged]] with [[perjury]] for stating that he annexed his fee at an earlier date than he allegedly had.<ref name=":0">{{cite news|author=De Launey|first=Guy|date=14 July 2018|title=Croatia's Luka Modric: Chequered past haunts World Cup star|work=BBC News|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-44821343|access-date=14 July 2018|quote=Modric was supposed to be the star witness at the trial. He had told anti-corruption investigators that Mamic had altered paperwork in order to divert millions of euros of the transfer fee to his own pocket, swindling both Dinamo and Croatia's tax authorities. Many football fans had been longing for Mamic to be brought to justice for years. Dinamo supporters accused him of carrying out a "silent privatisation" of their club, which is supposed to be a non-profit organisation owned by its members.}}</ref> Facing the judge, he said, "I came here to state my defence and tell the truth, like every time so far. My conscience is clear".<ref name="SkyBate"/><ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.vecernji.hr/sport/modric-konacno-progovorio-o-su-enju-zdravku-mamicu-to-je-velika-nepravda-1248435|title=Modrić konačno progovorio o suđenju Zdravku Mamiću: To je velika nepravda!|trans-title=Modric finally spoke about the trial of Zdravko Mamic: It is a great injustice!|date=28 May 2018|publisher=Večernji list|access-date=13 July 2018|language=hr|quote=I svojim igrama u kvalifikacijama i u Real Madridu pokazao sam da me to ništa ne ometa. Znam da mi je savjest čista, to je meni najbitnije. Mislim da je sve ovo što mi se događa velika nepravda, ali što je tu je, vjerojatno tu ima i neke moje krivice, no dobro... Ponavljam, najbitnije je da mi je savjest čista i da mi te stvari ne smetaju i ne utječu na moju izvedbu na terenu}}</ref> The [[Croatian Football Federation]] stood behind Modrić,<ref name="SkyBate"/> but a part of the Croatian public, frustrated with the corruption in Croatian football, perceived the alleged perjury as a defence of Mamić and became critical of Modrić.<ref>{{cite news|author=Fitzpatrick|first=Richard|date=6 April 2018|title=Luka Modric, His Mentor and the Perjury Case That Has Divided Croatia|publisher=Bleacher Report|url=http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2765532-luka-modric-his-mentor-and-the-perjury-case-that-has-divided-croatia|access-date=12 July 2018}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|author=Hall|first=Matthew|date=6 July 2018|title=Luka Modric, His Mentor and the Perjury Case That Has Divided Croatia|work=Foreign Policy|url=http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2765532-luka-modric-his-mentor-and-the-perjury-case-that-has-divided-croatia|access-date=12 July 2018}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|author=Miller|first=Nick|date=10 July 2018|title=What's Croatia's problem with Luka Modric?|publisher=ESPN|url=http://www.espn.com/soccer/fifa-world-cup/4/blog/post/3561265/luka-modric-a-potential-world-cup-winner--yet-many-in-croatia-hate-him|access-date=12 July 2018}}</ref> Some international news outlets praised him for dealing with the stress of his legal situation while performing with the Croatian team at the 2018 FIFA World Cup.<ref>{{cite news|author=Williams|first=Aidan|date=23 August 2018|title=The controversy that has damaged Luka Modrić's reputation for many in his homeland|work=[[These Football Times]]|url=https://thesefootballtimes.co/2018/08/23/the-controversy-that-has-damaged-luka-modrics-reputation-for-many-in-his-homeland/|access-date=30 August 2018|quote=That he went on to play with such style and success in the World Cup is simply extraordinary. As one Guardian journalist put it, "To plays as well as he has would be remarkable under normal circumstances, but to do so with the looming prospect of a trial on his mind has been astounding."}}</ref> In October and December 2018, the perjury charge was rejected by the Croatian courts.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-45733425|title=Croatian court rejects perjury charge against Luka Modric|date=3 October 2018|work=BBC Sport |access-date=4 October 2018}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=https://uk.reuters.com/article/soccer-croatia-modric/croatia-court-drops-false-testimony-charges-against-modric-idUKL8N1Y85Q8|title=Croatia court drops false testimony charges against Modric|date=4 October 2018|work=Reuters|access-date=4 December 2018}}</ref> |
|||
| url = http://www.croatiantimes.com/?id=11461 |
|||
| publisher = Croatian Times |
|||
| date = June 7, 2010 |
|||
| accessdate = 25 July 2012}}</ref><ref name="Modric family idyll">{{cite web |
|||
| title = Obiteljska idila Luke Modrića |
|||
| url = http://www.gloria.hr/obiteljska-idila-luke-modrica/ |
|||
| publisher = Gloria |
|||
| date = June 9, 2013 |
|||
| language = Croatian |
|||
| accessdate = 12 June 2013}}</ref> |
|||
On 25 April 2013, their daughter, Ema, was born.<ref name="Modric family idyll"/><ref>{{cite web |
|||
| title = Vanja i Luka Modrić kćer nazvali Ema |
|||
| url = http://www.vecernji.hr/scena/vanja-luka-modric-kcer-nazvali-ema-clanak-547381 |
|||
| publisher = Vecernji list |
|||
| date = May 2, 2013 |
|||
| language = Croatian |
|||
| accessdate = 12 June 2013}}</ref> |
|||
==Career statistics== |
==Career statistics== |
||
===Club=== |
|||
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align: center;" |
|||
{{updated|match played 1 June 2024}}<ref name=SS/> |
|||
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" |
|||
|+ Appearances and goals by club, season and competition |
|||
|- |
|- |
||
!rowspan="2"|Club |
!rowspan="2"|Club |
||
!rowspan="2"|Season |
!rowspan="2"|Season |
||
!colspan="3"|League |
!colspan="3"|League |
||
!colspan=" |
!colspan="2"|National cup{{efn|Includes [[Croatian Football Cup|Croatian Cup]], [[FA Cup]], [[Copa del Rey]]}} |
||
!colspan=" |
!colspan="2"|League cup{{efn|Includes [[EFL Cup|Football League Cup]]}} |
||
!colspan=" |
!colspan="2"|Continental |
||
!colspan="2"|Other |
|||
!colspan="2"|Total |
|||
|- |
|- |
||
!Division!!Apps!!Goals!!Apps!!Goals!!Apps!!Goals!!Apps!!Goals!!Apps!!Goals!!Apps!!Goals |
|||
!Apps |
|||
!Goals |
|||
!Assists |
|||
!Apps |
|||
!Goals |
|||
!Assists |
|||
!Apps |
|||
!Goals |
|||
!Assists |
|||
!Apps |
|||
!Goals |
|||
!Assists |
|||
|- |
|- |
||
| |
|rowspan="6"|[[GNK Dinamo Zagreb|Dinamo Zagreb]] |
||
|[[2003–04 NK Dinamo Zagreb season|2003–04]] |
|||
|[[Prva HNL]] |
|||
|0||0||0||0||colspan="2"|–||colspan="2"|–||colspan="2"|–||0||0 |
|||
|- |
|- |
||
|[[2004–05 Prva HNL|2004–05]] |
|||
|!|[[2003–04 Premier League of Bosnia and Herzegovina|2003–04]] |
|||
|Prva HNL |
|||
|22||8||0||0||0||0||0||0||0||22||8||0 |
|||
|7||0||1||0||colspan="2"|–||colspan="2"|–||colspan="2"|–||8||0 |
|||
|- |
|- |
||
|[[2005–06 Prva HNL|2005–06]] |
|||
| rowspan="2" style="text-align:center;"|[[NK Inter Zaprešić|Inter Zaprešić]] (loan) |
|||
|Prva HNL |
|||
|32||7||1||0||colspan="2"|–||colspan="2"|–||colspan="2"|–||33||7 |
|||
|- |
|- |
||
|[[2006–07 NK Dinamo Zagreb season|2006–07]] |
|||
|!|[[2004–05 Prva HNL|2004–05]] |
|||
|Prva HNL |
|||
|18||4||0||0||0||0||0||0||0||18||4||0 |
|||
|30||6||7||1||colspan="2"|–||6{{efn|Four appearances in [[UEFA Champions League]], two appearances in [[UEFA Cup]]}}||0||1{{efn|Appearance in [[Croatian Football Super Cup]]}}||1||44||8 |
|||
|- |
|- |
||
|[[2007–08 NK Dinamo Zagreb season|2007–08]] |
|||
|Prva HNL |
|||
|25||13||8||1||colspan="2"|–||12{{efn|Six appearances and two goals in UEFA Champions League, six appearances and one goal in UEFA Cup}}||3||colspan="2"|–||45||17 |
|||
|- |
|- |
||
!colspan="2"|Total |
|||
!94!!26!!17!!2!!colspan="2"|–!!18!!3!!1!!1!!130!!32 |
|||
|7||0||0||0||0||0||0||0||0||7||0||0 |
|||
|- |
|- |
||
|[[HŠK Zrinjski Mostar|Zrinjski Mostar]] (loan) |
|||
|!colspan="2"|[[2005–06 Prva HNL|2005–06]] |
|||
|[[2003–04 Premier League of Bosnia and Herzegovina|2003–04]] |
|||
|32||8||0||0||0||0||0||0||0||32||8||0 |
|||
|[[Premier League of Bosnia and Herzegovina|Bosnian Premier League]] |
|||
|25||8||colspan="2"|–||colspan="2"|–||colspan="2"|–||colspan="2"|–||25||8 |
|||
|- |
|- |
||
|[[NK Inter Zaprešić|Inter Zaprešić]] (loan) |
|||
|!colspan="2"|[[2006–07 Prva HNL|2006–07]] |
|||
|2004–05 |
|||
|30||6||10||7||1||0||6||0||0||43||7||10 |
|||
|Prva HNL |
|||
|18||4||colspan="2"|–||colspan="2"|–||colspan="2"|–||colspan="2"|–||18||4 |
|||
|- |
|- |
||
| |
|rowspan="5"|[[Tottenham Hotspur F.C.|Tottenham Hotspur]] |
||
|[[2008–09 Tottenham Hotspur F.C. season|2008–09]] |
|||
|25||13||11||8||1||0||10||3||1||43||17||12 |
|||
|[[Premier League]] |
|||
|34||3||2||1||4||0||4{{efn|Appearances in UEFA Cup}}||1||colspan="2"|–||44||5 |
|||
|- |
|- |
||
|[[2009–10 Tottenham Hotspur F.C. season|2009–10]] |
|||
|!colspan="2"|'''Total |
|||
|Premier League |
|||
!94!!39!!21!!15!!2!!0!!16!!3!!1!!125!!44!!22 |
|||
|25||3||7||0||0||0||colspan="2"|—||colspan="2"|–||32||3 |
|||
|- |
|- |
||
|[[2010–11 Tottenham Hotspur F.C. season|2010–11]] |
|||
|Premier League |
|||
|32||3||2||0||0||0||9{{efn|name=UCL|Appearances in UEFA Champions League}}||1||colspan="2"|–||43||4 |
|||
|- |
|- |
||
|[[2011–12 Tottenham Hotspur F.C. season|2011–12]] |
|||
|!colspan="2"|[[2008-09 Premier League|2008–09]] |
|||
|Premier League |
|||
|34||3||9||6||1||0||4||1||1||44||5||10 |
|||
|36||4||3||0||0||0||2{{efn|name=UEL|Appearances in [[UEFA Europa League]]}}||1||colspan="2"|–||41||5 |
|||
|- |
|- |
||
!colspan="2"|Total |
|||
!127!!13!!14!!1!!4!!0!!15!!3!!colspan="2"|–!!160!!17 |
|||
|25||3||4||7||0||3||0||0||0||32||3||7 |
|||
|- |
|- |
||
| |
|rowspan="14"|[[Real Madrid CF|Real Madrid]] |
||
|[[2012–13 Real Madrid CF season|2012–13]] |
|||
|32||3||2||2||0||0||9||1||1||43||4||3 |
|||
|[[La Liga]] |
|||
|33||3||8||0||colspan="2"|–||11{{efn|name=UCL}}||1||1{{efn|name=SDE|Appearance(s) in [[Supercopa de España]]}}||0||53||4 |
|||
|- |
|- |
||
|[[2013–14 Real Madrid CF season|2013–14]] |
|||
|!colspan="2"|[[2011-12 Premier League|2011–12]] |
|||
|La Liga |
|||
|36||4||6||2||0||0||2||1||0||40||5||6 |
|||
|34||1||6||0||colspan="2"|–||11{{efn|name=UCL}}||1||colspan="2"|–||51||2 |
|||
|- |
|- |
||
|[[2014–15 Real Madrid CF season|2014–15]] |
|||
|!colspan="2"|'''Total |
|||
|La Liga |
|||
!127!!13!!21!!17!!1!!3!!15!!3!!2!!159!!17!!26 |
|||
|16||1||0||0||colspan="2"|–||6{{efn|name=UCL}}||0||3{{efn|Two appearances in Supercopa de España, one appearance in [[UEFA Super Cup]]}}||0||25||1 |
|||
|- |
|- |
||
|[[2015–16 Real Madrid CF season|2015–16]] |
|||
|La Liga |
|||
|32||2||0||0||colspan="2"|–||12{{efn|name=UCL}}||1||colspan="2"|–||44||3 |
|||
|- |
|- |
||
|[[2016–17 Real Madrid CF season|2016–17]] |
|||
|[[2012–13 La Liga|2012–13]] |
|||
|La Liga |
|||
|33||3||6||9||0||1||11||1||1||53||4||8 |
|||
|25||1||2||0||colspan="2"|–||11{{efn|name=UCL}}||0||3{{efn|One appearance in UEFA Super Cup, two appearances in [[FIFA Club World Cup]]}}||0||41||1 |
|||
|- |
|- |
||
|[[2017–18 Real Madrid CF season|2017–18]] |
|||
|[[2013–14 La Liga|2013–14]] |
|||
|La Liga |
|||
|14||0||2||1||0||0||5||1||0||20||1||2 |
|||
|26||1||2||0||colspan="2"|–||11{{efn|name=UCL}}||1||4{{efn|One appearance in Supercopa de España, one appearance in UEFA Super Cup, two appearances in FIFA Club World Cup}}||0||43||2 |
|||
|- |
|- |
||
|[[2018–19 Real Madrid CF season|2018–19]] |
|||
|!colspan="2"|'''Total |
|||
|La Liga |
|||
!47!!3!!8!!10!!0!!1!!16!!2!!1!!73!!5!!10 |
|||
|34||3||3||0||colspan="2"|–||6{{efn|name=UCL}}||0||3{{efn|One appearance in UEFA Super Cup, two appearances and one goal in FIFA Club World Cup}}||1||46||4 |
|||
|- |
|- |
||
|[[2019–20 Real Madrid CF season|2019–20]] |
|||
!colspan="2" | Career totals |
|||
|La Liga |
|||
!268!!56!!50!!42!!3!!4!!47!!8!!4!!357!!66!!58 |
|||
|31||3||1||0||colspan="2"|–||6{{efn|name=UCL}}||1||2{{efn|name=SDE}}||1||40||5 |
|||
|- |
|||
|[[2020–21 Real Madrid CF season|2020–21]] |
|||
|La Liga |
|||
|35||5||0||0||colspan="2"|–||12{{efn|name=UCL}}||1||1{{efn|name=SDE}}||0||48||6 |
|||
|- |
|||
|[[2021–22 Real Madrid CF season|2021–22]] |
|||
|La Liga |
|||
|28||2||2||0||colspan="2"|–||13{{efn|name=UCL}}||0||2{{efn|name=SDE}}||1||45||3 |
|||
|- |
|||
|[[2022–23 Real Madrid CF season|2022–23]] |
|||
|La Liga |
|||
|33||4||4||0||colspan="2"|–||10{{efn|name=UCL}}||2||5{{efn|Two appearances in Supercopa de España, one appearance in UEFA Super Cup, two appearances in FIFA Club World Cup}}||0||52||6 |
|||
|- |
|||
|[[2023–24 Real Madrid CF season|2023–24]] |
|||
|La Liga |
|||
|32||2||1||0||colspan="2"|–||11{{efn|name=UCL}}||0||2{{efn|name=SDE}}||0||46||2 |
|||
|- |
|||
|[[2024–25 Real Madrid CF season|2024–25]] |
|||
|La Liga |
|||
|0||0||0||0||colspan="2"|–||0||0||0||0||0||0 |
|||
|- |
|||
!colspan="2"|Total |
|||
!359!!28!!29!!0!!colspan="2"|–!!120!!8!!26!!3!!534!!39 |
|||
|- |
|||
!colspan="3"|Career total |
|||
!623!!79!!60!!3!!4!!0!!153!!14!!27!!4!!867!!100 |
|||
|} |
|} |
||
{{notelist}} |
|||
''Statistics accurate as of match played 10 December 2013'' |
|||
===International=== |
===International=== |
||
{{updated|match played 24 June 2024}}<ref name="NFT"/> |
|||
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" |
|||
|- |
|||
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align: center;" |
|||
! colspan=3 | [[Croatia national football team|Croatia national team]] |
|||
|+ Appearances and goals by national team and year |
|||
|- |
|||
!Year!!Apps!!Goals |
!National team!!Year!!Apps!!Goals |
||
|- |
|- |
||
|rowspan="19"|[[Croatia national football team|Croatia]] |
|||
|2006||12||2 |
|2006||12||2 |
||
|- |
|- |
||
Line 271: | Line 453: | ||
|2012||9||0 |
|2012||9||0 |
||
|- |
|- |
||
|2013|| |
|2013||10||0 |
||
|- |
|- |
||
|2014||11||2 |
|||
!Total||71||8 |
|||
|- |
|||
|2015||4||0 |
|||
|- |
|||
|2016||8||1 |
|||
|- |
|||
|2017||8||1 |
|||
|- |
|||
|2018||15||2 |
|||
|- |
|||
|2019||9||2 |
|||
|- |
|||
|2020||6||0 |
|||
|- |
|||
|2021||13||4 |
|||
|- |
|||
|2022||16||3 |
|||
|- |
|||
|2023||10||1 |
|||
|- |
|||
|2024||6||2 |
|||
|- |
|||
!colspan="2"|Total||178||26 |
|||
|} |
|} |
||
{{updated|match played 24 June 2024}} |
|||
====International goals==== |
|||
:''Croatia score listed first, score column indicates score after each Modrić goal.''<ref name=SS>{{Sofascore|15466|access-date=21 November 2023}}</ref> |
|||
{| class="wikitable" |
|||
!colspan="7"|'''Luka Modrić – goals for Croatia'''<ref>{{NFT player|pid=13117|Luka Modrić|accessdate=2013-03-16}}</ref> |
|||
{| class="wikitable sortable plainrowheaders" |
|||
|- style="background:#ccc; text-align:center;" |
|||
|+ List of international goals scored by Luka Modrić |
|||
!# |
|||
!scope=col|No. |
|||
!Date |
|||
!scope=col|Date |
|||
!Venue |
|||
!scope=col|Venue |
|||
!Opponent |
|||
!scope=col|Cap |
|||
!Score |
|||
!scope=col|Opponent |
|||
!Result |
|||
!scope=col|Score |
|||
!Competition |
|||
!scope=col|Result |
|||
!scope=col|Competition |
|||
|- |
|- |
||
|style="text-align:center"|1 |
|||
|1. |
|||
|16 August 2006||[[Stadio Armando Picchi]], Livorno, Italy||style="text-align:center"|8||{{fb|ITA}}||style="text-align:center"|2–0||style="text-align:center"|2–0||[[Friendly (association football)|Friendly]] |
|||
|16 August 2006 |
|||
|[[Stadio Armando Picchi]], [[Livorno]], [[Italy]] |
|||
|{{fb|Italy}} |
|||
|<center>0 – '''2''' |
|||
|<center>0 – 2 |
|||
|[[Exhibition game|Friendly]] |
|||
|- |
|- |
||
|style="text-align:center"|2 |
|||
|2. |
|||
|7 October 2006||[[Stadion Maksimir]], Zagreb, Croatia||style="text-align:center"|10||{{fb|AND}}||style="text-align:center"|7–0||style="text-align:center"|7–0||[[UEFA Euro 2008 qualifying]] |
|||
|7 October 2006 |
|||
|[[Maksimir Stadium|Maksimir]], [[Zagreb]], [[Croatia]] |
|||
|{{fb|Andorra}} |
|||
|<center>'''7''' – 0 |
|||
|<center>7 – 0 |
|||
|[[UEFA Euro 2008 qualifying|Euro 2008 qualifying]] |
|||
|- |
|- |
||
|style="text-align:center"|3 |
|||
|3. |
|||
|7 February 2007||[[Stadion Kantrida]], Rijeka, Croatia||style="text-align:center"|13||{{fb|NOR}}||style="text-align:center"|2–0||style="text-align:center"|2–1||Friendly |
|||
|7 February 2007 |
|||
|[[Kantrida Stadium|Kantrida]], [[Rijeka]], [[Croatia]] |
|||
|{{fb|Norway}} |
|||
|<center>'''2''' – 0 |
|||
|<center>2 – 1 |
|||
|[[Exhibition game|Friendly]] |
|||
|- |
|- |
||
|style="text-align:center"|4 |
|||
|4. |
|||
|8 June 2008||[[Ernst-Happel-Stadion]], Vienna, Austria||style="text-align:center"|27||{{fb|AUT}}||style="text-align:center"|1–0||style="text-align:center"|1–0||[[UEFA Euro 2008]] |
|||
|8 June 2008 |
|||
|[[Ernst Happel Stadion]], [[Vienna]], [[Austria]] |
|||
|{{fb|AUT}} |
|||
|<center>0 – '''1''' |
|||
|<center>0 – 1 |
|||
|[[UEFA Euro 2008|Euro 2008]] |
|||
|- |
|- |
||
|style="text-align:center"|5 |
|||
|5. |
|||
|6 September 2008||[[Stadion Maksimir]], Zagreb, Croatia||style="text-align:center"|30||{{fb|KAZ}}||style="text-align:center"|2–0||style="text-align:center"|3–0||[[2010 FIFA World Cup qualification]] |
|||
|6 September 2008 |
|||
|[[Maksimir Stadium|Maksimir]], [[Zagreb]], [[Croatia]] |
|||
|{{fb|Kazakhstan}} |
|||
|<center>'''2''' – 0 |
|||
|<center>3 – 0 |
|||
||[[2010 FIFA World Cup qualification - UEFA Group 6|2010 World Cup qualifying]] |
|||
|- |
|- |
||
|style="text-align:center"|6 |
|||
|6. |
|||
|15 October 2008||[[Stadion Maksimir]], Zagreb, Croatia||style="text-align:center"|33||{{fb|AND}}||style="text-align:center"|3–0||style="text-align:center"|4–0||2010 FIFA World Cup qualification |
|||
|15 October 2008 |
|||
|[[Maksimir Stadium|Maksimir]], [[Zagreb]], [[Croatia]] |
|||
|{{fb|AND}} |
|||
|<center>'''3''' – 0 |
|||
|<center>4 – 0 |
|||
||2010 World Cup qualifying |
|||
|- |
|- |
||
|style="text-align:center"|7 |
|||
|7. |
|||
|6 June 2009||[[Stadion Maksimir]], Zagreb, Croatia||style="text-align:center"|35||{{fb|UKR}}||style="text-align:center"|2–2||style="text-align:center"|2–2||2010 FIFA World Cup qualification |
|||
|6 June 2009 |
|||
|[[Maksimir Stadium|Maksimir]], [[Zagreb]], [[Croatia]] |
|||
|{{fb|Ukraine}} |
|||
|<center>'''2''' – 2 |
|||
|<center>2 – 2 |
|||
||2010 World Cup qualifying |
|||
|- |
|- |
||
|style="text-align:center"|8 |
|||
|8. |
|||
|6 September 2011||[[Stadion Maksimir]], Zagreb, Croatia||style="text-align:center"|49||{{fb|ISR}}||style="text-align:center"|1–1||style="text-align:center"|3–1||[[UEFA Euro 2012 qualifying]] |
|||
|6 September 2011 |
|||
|- |
|||
|[[Maksimir Stadium|Maksimir]], [[Zagreb]], [[Croatia]] |
|||
|style="text-align:center"|9 |
|||
|{{fb|Israel}} |
|||
|9 September 2014||[[Stadion Maksimir]], Zagreb, Croatia||style="text-align:center"|80||{{fb|MLT}}||style="text-align:center"|1–0||style="text-align:center"|2–0||[[UEFA Euro 2016 qualifying]] |
|||
|<center>'''1''' – 1 |
|||
|- |
|||
|<center>3 – 1 |
|||
|style="text-align:center"|10 |
|||
||[[UEFA Euro 2012 qualifying Group F|Euro 2012 qualifying]] |
|||
|13 October 2014||[[Stadion Gradski vrt]], Osijek, Croatia||style="text-align:center"|82||{{fb|AZE}}||style="text-align:center"|5–0||style="text-align:center"|6–0||UEFA Euro 2016 qualifying |
|||
|- |
|||
|style="text-align:center"|11 |
|||
|12 June 2016||[[Parc des Princes]], Paris, France||style="text-align:center"|91||{{fb|TUR}}||style="text-align:center"|1–0||style="text-align:center"|1–0||[[UEFA Euro 2016]] |
|||
|- |
|||
|style="text-align:center"|12 |
|||
|9 November 2017||[[Stadion Maksimir]], Zagreb, Croatia||style="text-align:center"|102||{{fb|GRE}}||style="text-align:center"|1–0||style="text-align:center"|4–1||[[2018 FIFA World Cup qualification]] |
|||
|- |
|||
|style="text-align:center"|13 |
|||
|16 June 2018||[[Kaliningrad Stadium]], Kaliningrad, Russia||style="text-align:center"|107||{{fb|NGA}}||style="text-align:center"|2–0||style="text-align:center"|2–0||[[2018 FIFA World Cup]] |
|||
|- |
|||
|style="text-align:center"|14 |
|||
|21 June 2018||[[Nizhny Novgorod Stadium]], Nizhny Novgorod, Russia||style="text-align:center"|108||{{fb|ARG}}||style="text-align:center"|2–0||style="text-align:center"|3–0||2018 FIFA World Cup |
|||
|- |
|||
|style="text-align:center"|15 |
|||
|9 September 2019||[[Bakcell Arena]], Baku, Azerbaijan||style="text-align:center"|124||{{fb|AZE}}||style="text-align:center"|1–0||style="text-align:center"|1–1||[[UEFA Euro 2020 qualifying]] |
|||
|- |
|||
|style="text-align:center"|16 |
|||
|10 October 2019||[[Stadion Poljud]], Split, Croatia||style="text-align:center"|125||{{fb|HUN}}||style="text-align:center"|1–0||style="text-align:center"|3–0||UEFA Euro 2020 qualifying |
|||
|- |
|||
|style="text-align:center"|17 |
|||
|30 March 2021||[[Stadion Rujevica]], Rijeka, Croatia||style="text-align:center"|136||{{fb|MLT}}||style="text-align:center"|2–0||style="text-align:center"|3–0||[[2022 FIFA World Cup qualification]] |
|||
|- |
|||
|style="text-align:center"|18 |
|||
|22 June 2021||[[Hampden Park]], Glasgow, Scotland||style="text-align:center"|141||{{fb|SCO}}||style="text-align:center"|2–1||style="text-align:center"|3–1||[[UEFA Euro 2020]] |
|||
|- |
|||
|style="text-align:center"|19 |
|||
|11 October 2021||[[Stadion Gradski vrt]], Osijek, Croatia||style="text-align:center"|144||{{fb|SVK}}||style="text-align:center"|2–2||style="text-align:center"|2–2||2022 FIFA World Cup qualification |
|||
|- |
|||
|style="text-align:center"|20 |
|||
|11 November 2021||[[National Stadium, Ta' Qali|National Stadium]], Ta' Qali, Malta||style="text-align:center"|145||{{fb|MLT}}||style="text-align:center"|4–1||style="text-align:center"|7–1||2022 FIFA World Cup qualification |
|||
|- |
|||
|style="text-align:center"|21 |
|||
|29 March 2022||[[Education City Stadium]], Al Rayyan, Qatar||style="text-align:center"|148||{{fb|BUL}}||style="text-align:center"|1–1||style="text-align:center"|2–1||Friendly |
|||
|- |
|||
|style="text-align:center"|22 |
|||
|13 June 2022||[[Stade de France]], Saint-Denis, France||style="text-align:center"|152||{{fb|FRA}}||style="text-align:center"|1–0||style="text-align:center"|1–0||[[2022–23 UEFA Nations League A#Group 1|2022–23 UEFA Nations League A]] |
|||
|- |
|||
|style="text-align:center"|23 |
|||
|25 September 2022||[[Ernst-Happel-Stadion]], Vienna, Austria||style="text-align:center"|154||{{fb|AUT}}||style="text-align:center"|1–0||style="text-align:center"|3–1||2022–23 UEFA Nations League A |
|||
|- |
|||
|style="text-align:center"|24 |
|||
|14 June 2023||[[De Kuip]], Rotterdam, Netherlands||style="text-align:center"|165||{{fb|NED}}||style="text-align:center"|4–2||style="text-align:center"|4–2 {{aet}}||[[2023 UEFA Nations League Finals]] |
|||
|- |
|||
|style="text-align:center"|25 |
|||
|8 June 2024||[[Estádio Nacional]], Oeiras, Portugal||style="text-align:center"|175||{{fb|POR}}||style="text-align:center"|1–0||style="text-align:center"|2–1||Friendly |
|||
|- |
|||
|style="text-align:center"|26 |
|||
|24 June 2024||[[Red Bull Arena (Leipzig)|Red Bull Arena]], Leipzig, Germany||style="text-align:center"|178||{{fb|ITA}}||style="text-align:center"|1–0||style="text-align:center"|1–1||[[UEFA Euro 2024]] |
|||
|} |
|} |
||
==Honours== |
==Honours== |
||
[[File:Luka Modrić at celebration after winning the 2018 UEFA Champions League Final (cropped).jpg|thumb|Modrić congratulated by bishops of [[Almudena Cathedral]] after winning the [[2017–18 UEFA Champions League]].]] |
|||
===Club=== |
|||
;Dinamo Zagreb |
|||
*[[Croatian First League]] (3): [[Prva HNL 2005-06|2005–06]], [[Prva HNL 2006-07|2006–07]], [[Prva HNL 2007-08|2007–08]] |
|||
*[[Croatian Cup]] (2): [[2006–07 Croatian Cup|2006–07]], [[2007–08 Croatian Cup|2007–08]] |
|||
*[[Croatian Supercup]] (1): [[Croatian Supercup|2006]] |
|||
[[File:Luka Modrić receives the golden ball prize at the hands of Russian President Vladimir Putin.jpg|thumb|Modrić accepting the [[FIFA World Cup awards#Golden Ball|Golden Ball award]] at the hands of [[Vladimir Putin]] after the [[2018 FIFA World Cup Final]]]] |
|||
;Tottenham Hotspur |
|||
*[[Premier League Asia Trophy]] (1): [[2009 Premier League Asia Trophy|2009]] |
|||
'''Dinamo Zagreb'''<ref name="Real Profile"/> |
|||
;Real Madrid |
|||
*[[Croatian First Football League|Prva HNL]]: [[2005–06 Croatian First Football League|2005–06]], [[2006–07 Croatian First Football League|2006–07]], [[2007–08 Croatian First Football League|2007–08]] |
|||
*[[Supercopa de España]] (1): [[2012 Supercopa de España|2012]] |
|||
*[[Croatian Football Cup|Croatian Cup]]: [[2006–07 Croatian Football Cup|2006–07]], [[2007–08 Croatian Football Cup|2007–08]] |
|||
*[[Croatian Football Super Cup|Croatian Super Cup]]: [[Croatian Football Super Cup#2006|2006]] |
|||
'''Real Madrid'''<ref name="Real Profile"/> |
|||
===Individual=== |
|||
*[[La Liga]]: [[2016–17 La Liga|2016–17]], [[2019–20 La Liga|2019–20]],<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.marca.com/en/football/real-madrid/2020/07/17/5f10db2146163f3c2c8b45d7.html|title=Real Madrid win the longest LaLiga Santander season|date=17 July 2020|access-date=17 July 2020|website=Marca|location=Spain}}</ref> [[2021–22 La Liga|2021–22]],<ref>{{cite web |last=Westwood |first=James |date=30 April 2022 |title=Real Madrid clinch 35th La Liga title with four games to spare after victory over Espanyol |url=https://www.goal.com/en-us/news/real-madrid-35th-la-liga-title/bltb8dfbd27f32f5feb |access-date=30 April 2022 |website=Goal.com}}</ref> [[2023–24 La Liga|2023–24]]<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/articles/c0x05j54l8wo|title=Real Madrid crowned champions after Barca's defeat at Girona|website=BBC Sport|date=4 May 2024|access-date=4 May 2024}}</ref> |
|||
*[[Premier League of Bosnia and Herzegovina|Bosnian Premier League]] Player of the Year (1): 2003 |
|||
*[[Copa del Rey]]: [[2013–14 Copa del Rey|2013–14]], [[2022–23 Copa del Rey|2022–23]]<ref>{{cite web |title=Rodrygo stars as Real Madrid win the Copa del Rey against spirited Osasuna |url=https://www.marca.com/en/football/copa-rey/cronica/2023/05/07/6456ce98ca4741bb6c8b45d5.html |website=MARCA |access-date=6 May 2023 |language=en |date=6 May 2023}}</ref> |
|||
*[[Croatian Footballer of the Year#Hope of the Year|Croatian Football Hope of the Year]] (1): 2004 |
|||
*[[Supercopa de España]]: [[2012 Supercopa de España|2012]], [[2017 Supercopa de España|2017]], [[2020 Supercopa de España|2020]],<ref>{{cite web|url= https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/51085601|title =Spanish Super Cup: Real Madrid beat Atletico Madrid on penalties|date=12 January 2020|work=BBC Sport|access-date=14 January 2020}}</ref> [[2022 Supercopa de España|2022]],<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.marca.com/en/football/real-madrid/2022/01/16/61e481b0ca4741226d8b458c.html|title=Modric and Benzema fire Real Madrid to the Supercopa title |newspaper=Marca |first=Euan |last=Mctear |date=16 January 2022|access-date=16 January 2022}}</ref> [[2024 Supercopa de España|2024]]<ref>{{cite web |title=Real Madrid 4–1 Barcelona (Jan 14, 2024) Final Score |url=https://www.espn.com/soccer/match/_/gameId/695633 |website=ESPN |date=14 January 2024|access-date=14 January 2024 |language=en}}</ref> |
|||
*[[Prva HNL Player of the Year]] (1): 2005 |
|||
*[[UEFA Champions League]]: [[2013–14 UEFA Champions League|2013–14]], [[2015–16 UEFA Champions League|2015–16]], [[2016–17 UEFA Champions League|2016–17]], [[2017–18 UEFA Champions League|2017–18]], [[2021–22 UEFA Champions League|2021–22]],<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/news/0275-15415a62aaf0-36d3e17d7404-1000/ |title=Champions League final: Vinícius Júnior scores only goal as Real Madrid deny Liverpool again |work=UEFA |date=28 May 2022 |access-date=28 May 2022}}</ref> [[2023–24 UEFA Champions League|2023–24]]<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.espn.co.uk/football/story/_/id/40257014/champions-league-real-madrid-beat-dortmund-15th-title|title=Champions League: Real Madrid beat Dortmund for 15th title|publisher=espn.co.uk|date=1 June 2024|access-date=1 June 2024}}</ref> |
|||
*[[Sportske novosti Yellow Shirt award|Croatian First League Player of the Year]] (1): 2007 |
|||
*[[UEFA Super Cup]]: [[2014 UEFA Super Cup|2014]], [[2016 UEFA Super Cup|2016]], [[2017 UEFA Super Cup|2017]], [[2022 UEFA Super Cup|2022]]<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.uefa.com/uefasupercup/news/0278-15d6268709ab-38bef8ec34df-1000--report-real-madrid-win-the-super-cup/ |title=Real Madrid 2–0 Eintracht Frankfurt: Five-star Madrid triumph in Helsinki |work=UEFA |date=10 August 2022 |access-date=11 August 2022}}</ref> |
|||
*[[Croatian Footballer of the Year]] (3): 2007, 2008, 2011 |
|||
*[[FIFA Club World Cup]]: [[2014 FIFA Club World Cup|2014]],<ref>{{cite web |title=Modric: I want another major success with Croatia |url=https://www.fifa.com/tournaments/mens/worldcup/qatar2022/news/modric-i-want-another-major-success-with-croatia |website=www.fifa.com |access-date=2 June 2022 |language=en |date=29 March 2021}}</ref> [[2016 FIFA Club World Cup|2016]], [[2017 FIFA Club World Cup|2017]], [[2018 FIFA Club World Cup|2018]], [[2022 FIFA Club World Cup|2022]]<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.fifa.com/fifaplus/en/articles/real-madrid-al-hilal-final-report-review-vinicius-junior-federico-valverde-club-world-cup-morocco-2022 |title=Vinicius and Valverde dazzle as five-star Madrid conquer |publisher=[[FIFA]] |date=11 February 2023 |access-date=11 February 2023}}</ref> |
|||
*[[UEFA European Football Championship Teams of the Tournament|UEFA Euro Team of the Tournament]] (1): [[UEFA Euro 2008#Awards|2008]]<ref>{{cite news| url=http://espnfc.com/player/_/id/76762/luka-modric?cc=5739| title=Luka Modric| publisher=Espnfc.com| accessdate=2013-03-07}}</ref> |
|||
*[[Tottenham Hotspur F.C.#Club player of the year|Tottenham Hotspur F.C. Player of the Year]] (1): [[2010–11 Tottenham Hotspur F.C. season|2010–11]] |
|||
'''Croatia''' |
|||
==Notes== |
|||
* [[FIFA World Cup]] runner-up: [[2018 FIFA World Cup|2018]];<ref name="McNulty"/> third place: [[2022 FIFA World Cup|2022]]<ref name=third>{{Cite web |last=Smyth |first=Rob |date=17 December 2022 |title=Croatia 2–1 Morocco: World Cup 2022 third-place playoff – as it happened |url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/live/2022/dec/17/croatia-morocco-world-cup-2022-third-place-playoff-live-score-updates |access-date=17 December 2022 |website=The Guardian}}</ref> |
|||
<references group="nb" /> |
|||
* [[UEFA Nations League]] runner-up: [[2022–23 UEFA Nations League|2022–23]] |
|||
'''Individual''' |
|||
* [[Premier League of Bosnia and Herzegovina|Bosnian Premier League]] Player of the Year: 2003 |
|||
* [[Croatian Footballer of the Year|Best Croatian U-21 player]]: 2004<ref>{{Cite web |title="Vecernji list" Player of the Year |url=https://www.rsssf.org/miscellaneous/vecernjipoy.html |access-date=5 November 2022 |website=[[RSSSF]]}}</ref> |
|||
* [[Croatian Footballer of the Year#Hope of the Year|Croatian Football Hope of the Year]]: 2004 |
|||
* [[Croatian Footballer of the Year]]: 2007, 2008, 2011, 2014, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021,<ref>{{cite news |date=8 January 2021 |title=Čast je imati takvog kapetana: Modrić postao prvi nogometaš kojem je ovo uspjelo! |url=https://www.vecernji.hr/sport/cast-je-imati-takvog-kapetana-modric-postao-prvi-nogometas-kojem-je-ovo-uspjelo-1459475 |access-date=24 March 2021 |work=[[Večernji list]] |language=hr}}</ref> 2022,<ref>{{cite news |date=14 January 2023 |title=Modrić već 11. put slavi prestižnu nagradu, trofej osvojio ispred Gvardiola |url=https://www.vecernji.hr/sport/modric-vec-11-put-slavi-prestiznu-nagradu-trofej-osvojio-ispred-gvardiola-1649188 |access-date=31 January 2023 |work=www.vecernji.hr |language=hr}}</ref> 2023<ref>{{cite news |date=14 January 2024 |title=Večernji je 52. put odabrao 'Nogometaša godine': Luka Modrić osvojio dvanaestog popularnog Sikiricu! |url=https://www.vecernji.hr/sport/vecernji-je-52-put-odabrao-nogometasa-godine-luka-modric-osvojio-dvanaestog-popularnog-sikiricu-1738601 |access-date=14 January 2024 |work=www.vecernji.hr |language=hr}}</ref> |
|||
* [[Prva HNL Player of the Year (Tportal)|HNL's Footballer of the Year]]: 2007 |
|||
* [[Prva HNL Player of the Year]]: 2007 |
|||
* [[Sportske novosti Yellow Shirt award|SN Yellow Shirt Award]]: 2007–08 |
|||
* [[UEFA European Championship awards#Team of the Tournament|UEFA European Championship Team of the Tournament]]: [[UEFA Euro 2008#Awards|2008]] |
|||
* [[Tottenham Hotspur F.C.#Player of the Year|Tottenham Hotspur Player of the Year]]: [[2010–11 Tottenham Hotspur F.C. season|2010–11]] |
|||
* [[IFFHS World Team#Men Team of the Decade (2011–2020)|IFFHS World Team of the Decade]]: 2011–2020<ref>{{cite web |title=IFFHS (International Federation of Football for History & Statistics |url=https://www.iffhs.com/index.php/posts/919 |access-date=31 January 2021 |website=IFFHS}}</ref> |
|||
* [[IFFHS World Team#Men Team of the Decade (2011–2020)|IFFHS UEFA Team of the Decade]]: 2011–2020<ref>{{cite web |title=IFFHS (International Federation of Football for History & Statistics |url=https://www.iffhs.com/index.php/posts/932 |access-date=31 January 2021 |website=IFFHS}}</ref> |
|||
* UEFA Champions League Team of the Season: [[2013–14 UEFA Champions League#Squad of the Season|2013–14]],<ref name="CLTeam20134"/> [[2015–16 UEFA Champions League#Squad of the Season|2015–16]],<ref name="CL 2015/16 Team"/> [[2016–17 UEFA Champions League#Squad of the season|2016–17]],<ref name="CL 2016/17 Team"/> [[2017–18 UEFA Champions League#Squad of the season|2017–18]],<ref name="CL 2017/18 Team"/> [[2020–21 UEFA Champions League#Squad of the season|2020–21]],<ref>{{cite news |title=UEFA Champions League Squad of the Season |url=https://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/news/0269-12688c451cdd-b6efcb4ce948-1000--champions-league-all-star-squad/ |work=UEFA |date=31 May 2021 |access-date=1 June 2021}}</ref> [[2021–22 UEFA Champions League#Team of the season|2021–22]]<ref name="CL 2021/22 Team">{{cite news |title=2021/22 UEFA Champions League Team of the Season |url=https://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/news/0275-154650014aef-02a394f30379-1000--official-team-of-the-season/ |work=UEFA |date=31 May 2022 |access-date=31 May 2022}}</ref> |
|||
* [[La Liga Awards#Main categories|La Liga's Best Midfielder]]: [[2013–14 La Liga|2013–14]],<ref>{{cite news |first=Nicholas |last=Rigg |title=Atletico Madrid snubbed at La Liga awards despite winning league ahead of Spanish giants Real Madrid and Barcelona |newspaper=The Independent |date=28 October 2014 |url=https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/european/atletico-madrid-snubbed-at-la-liga-awards-despite-winning-league-ahead-of-spanish-giants-real-madrid-9822760.html |access-date=8 March 2016}}</ref> [[2015–16 La Liga|2015–16]]<ref name="LFPAward2"/> |
|||
* [[Football Oscar]] for Best Croatian Player: 2013,<ref>{{cite web |date=8 June 2013 |title=Prvi Nogometni Oscar |trans-title=First Football Oscar |url=http://sportske.jutarnji.hr/u-green-goldu-dodijeljeni-prvi-nogometni-oscari/1107516/ |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140605054304/http://sportske.jutarnji.hr/u-green-goldu-dodijeljeni-prvi-nogometni-oscari/1107516/ |archive-date=5 June 2014 |access-date=2 June 2014 |publisher=Sportske Novosti |language=hr}}</ref> 2014,<ref>{{cite web |date=2 June 2014 |title=Igrači i treneri drugu godinu za redom Luku Modrića proglasili najbolji igračem Hrvatske |trans-title=Players and coaches for the second year in a row declared Luka Modrić the best player of Croatia |url=http://sportske.jutarnji.hr/nogometni-oscar-igraci-i-treneri-drugu-godinu-za-redom-luku-modrica-proglasili-najbolji-nogometasem/1196232/ |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140605022415/http://sportske.jutarnji.hr/nogometni-oscar-igraci-i-treneri-drugu-godinu-za-redom-luku-modrica-proglasili-najbolji-nogometasem/1196232 |archive-date=5 June 2014 |access-date=2 June 2014 |publisher=Sportske Novosti |language=hr}}</ref> 2015,<ref>{{cite web |date=3 June 2015 |title=Nogometni Oscari: Modrić najbolji hrvatski igrač, najtrener Mamić se ispričao |trans-title=Football Oscars: Modrić best Croatian player, the best coach Mamić apologized |url=http://sportske.jutarnji.hr/nogometni-oscari-modric-treci-put-zaredom-najbolji-igrac--najbolji-trener-zoran-mamic/1360872/ |access-date=3 June 2015 |publisher=Sportske Novosti |language=hr}}</ref> 2016,<ref>{{cite web |title=Nogometni Oscar 2016 |trans-title=Football Oscar 2016 |url=http://www.huns.hr/hr/article/419/nogometni_oscar_2016 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160817033335/http://www.huns.hr/hr/article/419/nogometni_oscar_2016 |archive-date=17 August 2016 |access-date=21 June 2016 |publisher=Hrvatska udruga "Nogometni sindikat" |language=hr}}</ref> 2017,<ref>{{cite web |title=Trofej Nogometaš 2017 |url=http://www.huns.hr/hr/article/490/trofej_nogometa%C5%A1_2017-priop%C4%87enje_za_javnost |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170812134703/http://www.huns.hr/hr/article/490/trofej_nogometa%C5%A1_2017-priop%C4%87enje_za_javnost |archive-date=12 August 2017 |access-date=8 July 2017 |publisher=Hrvatska udruga "Nogometni sindikat" |language=hr}}</ref> 2018,<ref>{{cite web |title=Održana šesta dodjela nagrada Trofej Nogometaš |url=https://www.huns.hr/hr/596/Odr%C5%BEana+%C5%A1esta+dodjela+nagrada+Trofej+Nogometa%C5%A1 |access-date=17 June 2018 |publisher=Hrvatska udruga "Nogometni sindikat" |language=hr}}</ref> 2019,<ref>{{cite web |title=Održana sedma dodjela nagrada Trofej Nogometaš |url=https://www.huns.hr/hr/652/Odr%C5%BEana+sedma+dodjela+nagrada+Trofej+Nogometa%C5%A1 |access-date=25 November 2019 |publisher=Hrvatska udruga "Nogometni sindikat" |language=hr}}</ref> 2020,<ref>{{cite web |date=2 August 2020 |title=Objavljeni dobitnici nagrade Trofej Nogometaš |url=https://www.nacional.hr/objavljeni-dobitnici-nagrade-trofej-nogometas/ |access-date=3 August 2020 |publisher=nacional.hr |language=hr}}</ref> 2021,<ref name="team2021">{{cite web |date=6 June 2021 |title=HUNS objavio dobitnike nagrade Trofej Nogometaš |url=https://www.nacional.hr/huns-objavio-dobitnike-nagrade-trofej-nogometas/ |access-date=6 June 2021 |work=nacional.hr}}</ref> 2022,<ref>{{cite news |date=14 June 2022 |title=Sportske novosti – Odabrali igrači: Pogledajte tko je Kralj HR nogometa, tko je najbolji u HNL-u, pa Dream Team naše lige... |url=https://sportske.jutarnji.hr/sn/nogomet/hnl/prva-hnl/odabrali-igraci-pogledajte-tko-je-kralj-hr-nogometa-tko-je-najbolji-u-hnl-u-pa-dream-team-nase-lige-15210714 |publisher=[[Jutarnji list]] |language=hr-hr}}</ref> 2023<ref>{{cite web |date=20 July 2023 |title=HUNS podijelio nagrade – Modrić i Livaja glavni laureati |url=https://www.nacional.hr/huns-podijelio-nagrade-modric-i-livaja-glavni-laureati/ |access-date=5 May 2024 |website=NACIONAL.HR |language=hr}}</ref> |
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* [[FIFPRO#FIFA FIFPRO Men's World 11|FIFA FIFPRO World 11]]: [[2015 FIFA Ballon d'Or#FIFA/FIFPro World XI|2015]],<ref name="FIFPro"/> [[The Best FIFA Football Awards 2016#FIFA FIFPro World11|2016]],<ref name="FIFPro2"/> [[The Best FIFA Football Awards 2017#FIFA FIFPro World11|2017]],<ref name="FIFPro3"/> [[The Best FIFA Football Awards 2018#FIFA FIFPro World11|2018]],<ref name="FIFPro4"/> [[The Best FIFA Football Awards 2019#FIFA FIFPro Men's World11|2019]]<ref name="FIFPro5"/> [[The Best FIFA Football Awards 2022#FIFA FIFPRO Men's World 11|2022]]<ref name="FIFPro6"/> |
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* [[La Liga Awards#Other La Liga honours|La Liga Team of the Season]]: [[2015–16 La Liga|2015–16]],<ref name="La Liga 2015/16 Team"/> [[2021–22 La Liga|2021–22]],<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.ea.com/games/fifa/fifa-22/ultimate-team/tots/laliga-santander|title=LaLiga Santader Team of the Season|website=EA|date=19 May 2022|accessdate=21 August 2022}}</ref> [[2022–23 La Liga|2022–23]]<ref>{{cite news|title=Los Premios 'Team Of The Season' de EA SPORTSTM y LaLiga revelan a los mejores 15 jugadores de la temporada |trans-title=The EA SPORTSTM and LaLiga 'Team Of The Season' Awards reveal the best 15 players of the season|url=https://www.laliga.com/noticias/los-premios-team-of-the-season-de-ea-sportstm-y-laliga-revelan-a-los-mejores-15-jugadores-de-la-temporada|date=19 May 2023|access-date=21 May 2023|publisher=LaLiga}}</ref> |
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* [[UEFA]] La Liga Team of the Season: 2015–16<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.marca.com/en/football/spanish-football/2016/05/16/573a37ec468aeb19478b45ef.html |title=Atletico dominate UEFA's La Liga team of the season |work=Marca|location=Spain|date=16 May 2016 |access-date=30 September 2017}}</ref> |
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* [[FIFA Club World Cup awards#Golden Ball|FIFA Club World Cup Silver Ball]]: [[2016 FIFA Club World Cup#Awards|2016]]<ref name="Awards"/> |
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* [[ESPN]] Midfielder of the Year: 2016,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.espn.com/soccer/blog/espn-fc-united/68/post/2986441/espn-fc-100-real-madrid-star-luka-modric-is-ranked-as-the-best-central-midfielder|title=#FC100: Real Madrid star Luka Modric is ranked as the best central midfielder|publisher=ESPN|date=14 November 2016|access-date=17 December 2017}}</ref> 2017,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.espn.com/espn/feature/story/_/id/21589590/fc-100-best-men-players-managers-world-football#!central-mid|title=CENTRAL MIDFIELD|publisher=ESPN|date=4 December 2017|access-date=17 December 2017}}</ref> 2018<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.espn.com/espn/feature/story/_/id/25401799/espn-fc-100-2018#!central-mid|title=CENTRAL MIDFIELD|publisher=ESPN|access-date=11 May 2019}}</ref> |
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* [[UEFA Team of the Year]]: [[UEFA Team of the Year#Team of the Year 2016|2016]],<ref name="UEFATOTY" /> [[UEFA Team of the Year#Team of the Year 2017|2017]],<ref name="UEFATOTY17" /> [[UEFA Team of the Year#Team of the Year 2018|2018]]<ref name="UEFATOTY18" /> |
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* [[UEFA Club Football Awards|UEFA Champions League Midfielder of the Season]]: [[2016–17 UEFA Champions League#Midfielder of the season|2016–17]],<ref name="CLMid2016-2017"/> [[2017–18 UEFA Champions League#Midfielder of the season|2017–18]]<ref name="CLMid2017-2018"/> |
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* [[IFFHS Men's World Team]]: 2017,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://iffhs.de/the-iffhs-man-world-team-2017/ |title=THE IFFHS MEN WORLD TEAM 2017 |website=IFFHS |date=12 December 2017 |access-date=12 December 2017}}</ref> 2018,<ref>{{cite web |url=https://iffhs.de/iffhs-awards-2018-the-men-world-team-2018/ |title=IFFHS AWARDS – THE MEN WORLD TEAM 2018 |website=IFFHS |date=1 December 2018 |access-date=4 December 2018 |archive-date=6 January 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190106194353/https://iffhs.de/iffhs-awards-2018-the-men-world-team-2018/ |url-status=dead }}</ref> 2022<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.iffhs.com/posts/2465 |title=IFFHS MEN'S WORLD TEAM 2022 |website=IFFHS |date=11 January 2023 |access-date=11 January 2023 }}</ref> |
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* [[FIFA Club World Cup awards#Golden Ball|FIFA Club World Cup Golden Ball]]: [[2017 FIFA Club World Cup#Awards|2017]]<ref name="MarcaGolden"/> |
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* [[FIFA World Cup awards#Golden Ball|FIFA World Cup Golden Ball]]: [[2018 FIFA World Cup#Awards|2018]]<ref name="FIFAGolden"/> |
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* [[FIFA World Cup awards#All-Star Team|FIFA World Cup Fantasy Team]]: [[2018 FIFA World Cup#Awards|2018]]<ref name="FIFATEAM2"/> |
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* [[FIFA World Cup awards#All-Star Team|FIFA World Cup Dream Team]]: [[FIFA World Cup awards#All-Star Team|2018]]<ref name="FIFATEAM1"/> |
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* [[UEFA Men's Player of the Year Award]]: 2017–18<ref name="UEFAMPYA"/> |
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* [[The Best FIFA Men's Player]]: [[The Best FIFA Football Awards 2018|2018]]<ref name="FIFAPYA"/> |
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* [[International Federation of Football History & Statistics#The World's Best Playmaker|IFFHS World's Best Playmaker]]: 2018<ref name="IFFHSPlay"/> |
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* [[Goal (website)#Goal 50|Goal 50]]: 2017–18<ref>{{cite news |date=13 November 2018 |title=Modric beats Ronaldo & Salah to win Goal 50 |url=https://www.goal.com/en/news/modric-beats-ronaldo-and-salah-to-win-goal-50/1lt7j69rhylxm12uya3u9ruq37 |access-date=28 November 2020 |website=Goal.com |publisher=Perform Group}}</ref> |
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* [[Ballon d'Or]]: [[2018 Ballon d'Or|2018]]<ref name="BBCBallon"/> |
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* [[World Soccer Player of the Year|''World Soccer'' Player of the Year]]: 2018<ref>{{cite news |first=Sam |last=Tremlett |title=Luka Modric – World Player Of The Year |newspaper=World Soccer |date=28 December 2018 |url=https://www.worldsoccer.com/news/luka-modric-world-player-year-407875 |access-date=4 December 2019}}</ref> |
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* [[The Guardian 100 Best Male Footballers in the World#Winners|''The Guardian'' Best Footballer in the World]]: 2018<ref>{{Cite web |date=20 December 2018 |title=The 100 best male footballers in the world 2018 |url=http://www.theguardian.com/football/ng-interactive/2018/dec/18/the-100-best-male-footballers-in-the-world-2018-nos-100-71 |access-date=23 January 2024 |website=the Guardian |language=en}}</ref> |
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* [[Sports journalism#Organizations|AIPS]] Athlete of the Year: 2018<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.aipsmedia.com/index.html?page=artdetail&art=25018&AIPS-Athletes-Best-Team-Best-Press-Facility-Sports-Journalists-Best-of-2018|title=Simone Biles and Luka Modric the best AIPS Athletes of 2018|publisher=AIPS|date=3 January 2019|access-date=3 January 2019}}</ref> |
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* ''Dongqiudi'' Player of the Year: 2018<ref>{{cite web |title=懂球帝&All Football 2018年度最佳球员揭晓:莫德里奇|url=https://m.dongqiudi.com/article/892038 |website=dongqiudi |access-date=24 January 2024 |date=9 January 2019 |language=zh }}</ref> |
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* [[Croatian Football Federation|HNS]] Trophy for Best Croatian Player: 2018<ref>{{cite web |date=7 June 2018 |title=Prvi Trofej HNS-a pripao Modriću, Majeru, Soudaniju, Keku... |url=http://hns-cff.hr/news/18166/prvi-trofej-hns-a-pripao-modricu-majeru-soudaniju-keku/ |access-date=17 June 2018 |publisher=[[Croatian Football Federation|HNS]] |language=hr}}</ref> |
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* [[Croatian Olympic Committee|HOO]] [[:hr:Izbor najuspješnijih športaša HOO-a|Sportsman of the Year]]: 2018<ref>{{cite web |date=19 December 2018 |title=Luka Modrić i Sandra Perković proglašeni najboljim sportašima |url=https://www.vecernji.hr/sport/luka-modric-i-sandra-perkovic-proglaseni-najboljim-sportasima-1290001 |access-date=27 December 2018 |publisher=[[Večernji list]] |language=hr}}</ref> |
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* [[Sportske novosti awards|SN Sportsman of the Year]]: 2018,<ref>{{cite web |date=26 December 2018 |title=PRVE REAKCIJE DOBITNIKA U IZBORU SN-A Modrić nakon još jednog priznanja: 'Stvarno mi je velika čast biti najbolji u ovakvoj konkurenciji' |url=https://sportske.jutarnji.hr/hotsport/prve-reakcije-dobitnika-u-izboru-sn-a-modric-nakon-jos-jednog-priznanja-stvarno-mi-je-velika-cast-biti-najbolji-u-ovakvoj-konkurenciji/8218748/ |publisher=[[Jutarnji list]] |language=hr}}</ref> 2022<ref>{{cite news |date=15 January 2023 |title=Sportske novosti – Uspjeli smo! Velika ceremonija i spektakl hrvatskog sporta ove je godine po nečemu bila posebna |url=https://sportske.jutarnji.hr/sn/sport-mix/ostali-sportovi/uspjeli-smo-velika-ceremonija-i-spektakl-hrvatskog-sporta-ove-je-godine-po-necemu-bila-posebna-15295726 |access-date=31 January 2023 |work=sportske.jutarnji.hr |language=hr-hr}}</ref> |
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* [[Franjo Bučar State Award for Sport]] – Yearly Award: 2018<ref>{{cite web |date=9 October 2018 |title=Nagrada "Franjo Bučar" za životno djelo Milki Babović, Vladimiru Jankoviću i posmrtno Mati Parlovu |url=https://sport.hrt.hr/466080/nagrada-franjo-bucar-za-zivotno-djelo-milki-babovic-vladimiru-jankovicu-i-posmrtno-mati-parlovu |access-date=4 December 2018 |publisher=[[Hrvatska Radiotelevizija]] |language=hr}}</ref> |
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* [[Honorary citizenship|Honorary citizen]] of the city of [[Zadar]] (2018)<ref>{{cite web |date=23 November 2018 |title=Zadar slavi Dan grada – Luka Modrić počasni građanin |url=https://vijesti.hrt.hr/474140/zadar-slavi-dan-grada-luka-modric-pocasni-graanin |access-date=4 December 2018 |publisher=[[Hrvatska Radiotelevizija]] |language=hr}}</ref><ref name="zd18">{{Cite web |date=23 November 2018 |title=Dobitnici javnih priznanja Grada Zadra u 2018. godini |url=https://www.grad-zadar.hr/vijest/javna-priznanja-grada-zadra-32/dobitnici-javnih-priznanja-grada-zadra-u-2018-godini-5507.html |access-date=29 June 2023 |website=grad-zadar.hr |publisher=City of Zadar |language=hr}}</ref> and [[Zadar County]] (2019)<ref>{{Cite web |title=Počasni građani Zadarske županije |trans-title=Honorary citizens of the Zadar County |url=https://www.zadarska-zupanija.hr/javna-priznanja-zadarske-županije/79-upravni-odjel-za-more-i-turizam/715-počasni-građani-zadarske-županije |access-date=29 June 2023 |publisher=Zadar County |language=hr}}</ref> |
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* [[Zadar#City of Zadar Award|City of Zadar Award]]: 2018<ref name="zd18" /> |
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* [[Golden Foot]]: 2019<ref name="MarcaGoldenFoot"/> |
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* Real Madrid Player of the Season: [[2020–21 Real Madrid CF season|2020–21]]<ref>{{cite news |title=Modrić named Cinco Estrellas Mahou Player of the Season |url=https://www.realmadrid.com/en/news/2021/05/27/modric-named-cinco-estrellas-mahou-player-of-the-season |access-date=27 May 2021 |publisher=Real Madrid CF |date=27 May 2021}}</ref> |
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* [[European Sports Magazines#ESM Team of the Year|ESM Team of the Year]]: [[European Sports Magazines#2020s|2021–22]]<ref>{{cite book |last=Rainbow |first=Jamie |url=https://www.worldsoccer.com/esm-golden-shoe/esm11/esm-team-of-the-season-2021-22-413812 |title=ESM Team of the Season – 2021–22 |date=13 June 2022 |work=World Soccer |access-date=21 June 2022}}</ref> |
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* [[Marca Leyenda|Marca Leyenda Award]]: 2022<ref>{{cite news |title='I'll end my career at Real' – Modric wins Marca Legend Award |url=https://www.eurosport.co.uk/football/i-ll-end-my-career-at-real-modric-wins-marca-legend-award_vid1679647/video.shtml |access-date=28 May 2022 |publisher=Eurosport |date=28 May 2022}}</ref> |
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* [[FIFA World Cup Golden Ball|FIFA World Cup Bronze Ball]]: [[2022 FIFA World Cup#Awards|2022]]<ref name="FifaBronzeBall" /> |
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'''Orders''' |
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*[[Order of Duke Branimir]]: 2018<ref>{{cite web|url=http://predsjednica.hr/objava/1/1/2707|title=News: President Decorates Croatian National Football Team Players and Coaching Staff|date=13 November 2018|publisher=Office of the President of the Republic of Croatia|access-date=13 November 2018|quote=the Order of Prince Branimir with Ribbon was awarded to Mr. Luka Modrić...|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190409171628/http://predsjednica.hr/objava/1/1/2707|archive-date=9 April 2019|url-status=dead}}</ref> |
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*[[Charter of the Republic of Croatia]]: 2024<ref>{{cite web|url=https://sport.hrt.hr/hrvatski-nogomet/milanovic-odlikovao-vatrene-srcu-odvaznost-u-misli-domovina-11569305|title=Milanović odlikovao Vatrene: Srcu odvažnost, u misli domovina|language=hr|website=sport.hrt.hr|publisher=Croatian Radio Television (HRT)}}</ref> |
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==See also== |
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* [[List of men's footballers with 100 or more international caps]] |
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* [[List of men's footballers with the most official appearances]] |
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==References== |
==References== |
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{{Reflist |
{{Reflist}} |
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==Further reading== |
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'''Biography''' |
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*{{cite book|last=Čop|first=Goran|title=Luka Modrić: životna i sportska biografija|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=BZGKrgEACAAJ|year=2014|publisher=Profil knjiga|language=hr|isbn=9789533133263}} |
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*{{cite book|last1=Azpitarte|first1=Vicente|last2=Puertas|first2=José Manuel|title=Luka Modric: El hijo de la guerra|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=E33ECwAAQBAJ|year=2016|publisher=Al Poste Ediciones|language=es|isbn=978-84-15726-61-6}} |
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'''Autobiography''' |
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*{{cite book|last1=Modrić|first1=Luka|last2=Matteoni|first2=Robert|title=Moja igra: autobiografija |url=https://cortoliterary.com/|year=2019|publisher=Corto Literary|language=hr|isbn=978-953-48750-0-1}} |
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*{{cite book|last1=Modrić|first1=Luka|last2=Matteoni|first2=Robert|title=Luka Modric: Official Autobiography |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=UYfRDwAAQBAJ|year=2020|publisher=Bloomsbury Publishing|isbn=9781472977946}} |
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==External links== |
==External links== |
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{{Commons category}} |
{{Commons category}} |
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*[http://www.realmadrid.com |
*[http://www.realmadrid.com/en/football/squad/luka-modric Profile] at [[Real Madrid CF]] |
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*[https://www.laliga.es/en/player/modric Luka Modrić] – La Liga profile |
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Revision as of 13:36, 17 July 2024
![]() Modrić in 2021 | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Personal information | |||||||||||||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Full name | Luka Modrić[1] | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Date of birth | [2] | 9 September 1985||||||||||||||||||||||
Place of birth | Zadar, SR Croatia, SFR Yugoslavia | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Height | 1.72 m (5 ft 8 in)[3] | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Position(s) | Midfielder | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Team information | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Current team | Real Madrid | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Number | 10 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Youth career | |||||||||||||||||||||||
1996–2000 | Zadar | ||||||||||||||||||||||
2000–2003 | Dinamo Zagreb | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Senior career* | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Years | Team | Apps | (Gls) | ||||||||||||||||||||
2003–2008 | Dinamo Zagreb | 94 | (26) | ||||||||||||||||||||
2003–2004 | → Zrinjski Mostar (loan) | 25 | (8) | ||||||||||||||||||||
2004–2005 | → Inter Zaprešić (loan) | 18 | (4) | ||||||||||||||||||||
2008–2012 | Tottenham Hotspur | 127 | (13) | ||||||||||||||||||||
2012– | Real Madrid | 359 | (28) | ||||||||||||||||||||
International career‡ | |||||||||||||||||||||||
2001 | Croatia U15 | 2 | (0) | ||||||||||||||||||||
2001 | Croatia U17 | 2 | (0) | ||||||||||||||||||||
2003 | Croatia U18 | 7 | (0) | ||||||||||||||||||||
2003–2004 | Croatia U19 | 11 | (1) | ||||||||||||||||||||
2004–2005 | Croatia U21 | 15 | (2) | ||||||||||||||||||||
2006– | Croatia | 178 | (26) | ||||||||||||||||||||
Medal record
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*Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 20:58, 25 May 2024 (UTC) ‡ National team caps and goals, correct as of 23:00, 24 June 2024 (UTC) |
Luka Modrić (Croatian pronunciation: [lûːka mǒːdritɕ];[4][5] born 9 September 1985) is a Croatian professional footballer who plays as a midfielder and captains both La Liga club Real Madrid and the Croatia national team.[6][7] He is regarded as one of the greatest midfielders of all time,[8][9][10] and as the best Croatian footballer ever.[11] He plays mainly as a central midfielder, but can also play as an attacking midfielder or as a defensive midfielder.
Modrić began his professional career with Croatian club Dinamo Zagreb in 2003 before spells on loan to Bosnian side Zrinjski Mostar and Croatian side Inter Zaprešić. He made his debut for Dinamo in 2005 and his performances earned him a move to Premier League club Tottenham Hotspur in 2008, where he led them to UEFA Champions League qualification in 2010, their first in almost 50 years. In the summer of 2012, Modrić joined Real Madrid for a £30 million transfer fee. In his second season, he won the 2013–14 Champions League title, being selected for that season's squad of the season. After Zinedine Zidane took over Madrid in 2016, Modrić was a key member of the club's three consecutive Champions League titles from 2015–16 to 2017–18, each time being voted into the squad of the season. In total, he has won 26 major trophies at Madrid, including six UEFA Champions League titles, four La Liga titles, and two Copa del Rey titles, making him the most decorated footballer in the club's history.[12]
Modrić has won numerous individual awards, including the Ballon d'Or in 2018, making him the first player other than Lionel Messi or Cristiano Ronaldo to win the award since 2007, the Best FIFA Men's Player, and the UEFA Men's Player of the Year Award, also being named the IFFHS World's Best Playmaker in 2018. He has also been named in the FIFPRO World 11 six times and the UEFA Team of the Year three times. In 2019, he was awarded the Golden Foot award for career results and personality.
Modrić made his international debut for Croatia against Argentina in March 2006, and scored his first international goal in a friendly match against Italy. Modrić has anchored Croatia's "second Golden Generation", participating in every major tournament Croatia has qualified for, including UEFA Euro 2008 to 2024, as well as the 2006 FIFA World Cup to 2022. At Euro 2008, he was selected for the Team of the Tournament. Modrić led Croatia to the 2018 World Cup final, winning the Golden Ball in process. At the 2022 World Cup, he led the team to a third-place finish, winning the Bronze Ball in process. In March 2021, he went on to become the country's most capped player in history. Furthermore, he has been named Croatian Footballer of the Year a record twelve times between 2007 and 2023.
Early life
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/e/e5/Zadar_%2820069585463%29.jpg/220px-Zadar_%2820069585463%29.jpg)
Luka Modrić was born on 9 September 1985 in Zadar and was raised in the hamlet of Modrići, which is a part of Zaton Obrovački,[13][14] a village situated on the southern slopes of the mountain Velebit, north of the city of Zadar in SR Croatia, then a republic within SFR Yugoslavia.[15][16][17] He is the oldest child of Stipe Modrić from Modrići and Radojka Dopuđ from Kruševo near Obrovac, both of whom initially worked in a knitwear factory.[18][19][20][21] Modrić mostly spent his early years in the stone house where usually lived his paternal grandfather after whom he was named,[13][22] located on the road above the hamlet of Modrići (this "upper house" was not owned by the family),[23][24][25] and was shepherding goats as a five-year-old.[26][27][28]
However, his childhood coincided with the Croatian War of Independence—in 1991, when the war escalated, his family were forced to flee the area.[15] Modrić's grandfather Luka was executed by Serb rebels who were part of the police of SAO Krajina in December 1991 near his house in Modrići,[15][17][29][30] and after the family fled, the house was burned to the ground.[31][32] Modrić became a refugee and lived with his family in the Hotel Kolovare for seven years; he later moved to the Hotel Iž, both in Zadar.[15][33][34] His father joined the Croatian Army as an aeromechanic.[15][35] In those years, thousands of bombs fell on the city and football was a way to escape the reality of war.[17] He recalls it as a tough time for his family and something which shaped him as a person.[36][37][38] He also said he was mostly unaware of the war because he befriended many other children and their parents did not let it affect their childhood.[20]
In these difficult circumstances, Modrić began playing football, mostly at the hotel parking lot.[17] In 1992, he simultaneously entered the primary school and a sporting academy, the latter paid for with the little money the family had, sometimes helped by Modrić's uncle.[15][33][20] As a boy he was inspired to play football by Zvonimir Boban and Francesco Totti.[39]
Club career
Early years
Supported by his family, Modrić participated in representative camps and trained in NK Zadar.[15][20] He was under the tutelage of coach Domagoj Bašić and the head of the youth academy, Tomislav Bašić.[15] Tomislav Bašić, considered by Modrić as his "sporting father",[30][34] said Modrić's father made him wooden shin guards because they had little money.[15][36][38] However, Modrić later denied the story.[17] Due to being considered too young and light, he was not signed by Croatian powerhouse Hajduk Split, the most representative football club in the region of Dalmatia.[15][20][40] After displaying some talent, including at a youth tournament in Italy,[30] Tomislav Bašić arranged Modrić's move to Dinamo Zagreb when Modrić was a 16-year-old in late 2001.[15][17][41] After a season with Dinamo Zagreb's youth side, Modrić was loaned in 2003 to Zrinjski Mostar in the Bosnian Premier League.[15][30] During this period, he established his versatile style of play and became the Bosnian Premier League Player of the Year at only the age of 18.[42] Modrić later said, "Someone who can play in the Bosnian Premier League can play anywhere," referring to its physical nature.[42] The following year, he was loaned to Croatian side Inter Zaprešić. He spent one season there, helping the team to achieve second position in the Prva HNL[30][43] and a place in the preliminary round of the UEFA Cup. He also won the Croatian Football Hope of the Year award in 2004.[42] He returned to Dinamo Zagreb in 2005.[42]
Dinamo Zagreb
In the 2005–06 season, Modrić signed a ten-year contract (his first long-term contract) with Dinamo Zagreb.[42] With the contract's earnings, he bought a flat in Zadar for his family.[17][30] He secured a place in Dinamo's first team, contributing 7 goals in 31 matches to help win the league.[44] In the 2006–07 season, Dinamo again won the league, with Modrić making a similar contribution.[44] He was the main provider for striker Eduardo,[42] which helped Modrić win the Prva HNL Player of the Year award.[3] The following season, Modrić as a team captain,[45] led Dinamo's attempt to qualify for the 2007–08 UEFA Cup. In the final play-off stage, Modrić converted a penalty in the second and away fixture against Ajax; the match finished 1–1 after regular time. Dinamo won the match and play-off with a score of 3–2 after extra time with two goals from teammate Mario Mandžukić.[46] However, Dinamo Zagreb failed to advance beyond the group stage. In his last home match with the club at Maksimir Stadium, Modrić was given a standing ovation and fans held up supportive banners.[47][48] He finished his four-year tenure at Dinamo with a tally of over 31 goals and 29 assists in four league seasons,[30][49] contributing most notably in the 2007–08 season when Dinamo won the second Croatian Cup and became champions by a 28-point margin.[50] Modrić was courted by Barcelona, Arsenal and Chelsea, but opted to wait leaving the club.[30][51][52]
Tottenham Hotspur
2008–10: Struggle and success in England
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/0/05/Luka_Modri%C4%87_spurs.jpg)
Modrić agreed to transfer terms with Tottenham Hotspur on 26 April 2008. He was the first of many summer signings for manager Juande Ramos, and was also the Premier League's first summer transfer.[53] Club chairman Daniel Levy promptly flew to Zagreb when Manchester City and Newcastle United became interested,[54][55] and after signing a six-year contract, Tottenham confirmed the transfer fee paid was £16.5 million, equalling the club's record fee set by Darren Bent's move in 2007.[56] He got the number 14 jersey, later recalling that he wore it in honour of Johan Cruyff.[57] Modrić made his competitive Premier League debut on 16 August in a 2–1 defeat to Middlesbrough at the Riverside Stadium in Spurs' first match of the 2008–09 season.[58]
Modrić had a slow start at Tottenham. He suffered from a knee injury early in his tenure and was labelled as a light-weight for the Premier League by sections of the media,[41][37] as well as Arsenal manager Arsène Wenger.[59] Reflecting on that, Modrić said that 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".[41] This coincided with his poor form, leading to concerns both for himself and Croatia national team head coach Slaven Bilić.[59] Modrić spent his early days at the number 10 position, before being shifted to the left wing to play alongside Wilson Palacios.[59] Spurs teammate Tom Huddlestone later said, "[H]is versatility was probably a blessing and a curse, he was that good that he had to play out of position for a bit."[59]
After the appointment of manager Harry Redknapp, Modrić was given a more familiar role as a central or left-sided midfielder, allowing him to have more influence on the team and use his footballing talent more productively, for example in a 4–4 draw with arch-rivals Arsenal on 29 October.[60] Redknapp recognised Modrić's value to his side and planned to shape his new team around the Croatian playmaker. He scored his first competitive goal at Tottenham in a 2–2 draw against Spartak Moscow during the UEFA Cup group stages on 18 December 2008.[61] He scored his first Premier League goals against Newcastle United in an away defeat on 21 December, a home win in the third round of the FA Cup against Wigan Athletic on 2 January 2009, and in an away defeat against Manchester United on 25 April 2009.[62] Using Modrić in his former position from his Dinamo days made him more effective with performances against Stoke City,[63] Hull City,[64] and most notably on 21 March when he scored the only goal in a win against Chelsea.[65]
Before the 2009–10 season, Redknapp said of Modrić, "[He's] a hell of a player and a manager's dream, so I am told. 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. He could get into any team in the top four".[66] On 29 August 2009, during Tottenham's 2–1 win over Birmingham City, Modrić was taken off injured with a suspected calf injury.[67] The following day, it was confirmed Modrić had sustained a fracture to his right fibula and was expected to be out for six weeks.[68] He returned on 28 December in the London derby against West Ham United, which Spurs won 2–0 with an 11th-minute goal scored by Modrić using the leg he had broken.[69] He again scored in a home win against Everton on 28 February 2010,[70] and in an away defeat against Burnley on 9 May.[71] On 30 May 2010, Modrić signed a new six-year contract that ran until 2016. Upon signing, he said, "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 enquiries 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 to at Spurs."[72]
2010–12: Final seasons in England
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/4/48/Luka_Modri%C4%87_2010_2.jpg/140px-Luka_Modri%C4%87_2010_2.jpg)
On 11 September 2010, Modrić scored his first goal of the 2010–11 season in a 1–1 away draw at West Bromwich Albion.[73] On 28 November, in a home match against Liverpool, Modrić scored a goal that was later credited as an own goal by Martin Škrtel. After a draw against Manchester United at White Hart Lane in January 2011, Redknapp praised Modrić, saying, "He was unbelievable. Magnificent. 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."[74] Modrić also scored in Tottenham's 3–2 victory over Stoke City on 9 April,[75] and converted a penalty at Anfield on 15 May in a 2–0 victory over Liverpool.[76] Modrić helped Tottenham reach their first involvement in the UEFA Champions League. In the first match, against Inter Milan at the San Siro on 20 October, he exited the match early due to injury; Spurs lost 4–3, despite the tremendous efforts of Gareth Bale.[77] On the return match at home, on 2 November, Modrić was given too much space to move and dictate the tempo of the match. He created and assisted for the first goal by Rafael van der Vaart in a 3–1 victory.[78][79] In the next match, against Werder Bremen, Modrić scored the second goal.[80] After a scoreless draw against Milan,[81] Spurs were eliminated from the competition in the quarter-finals by Real Madrid.[82]
Modrić played 32 Premier League matches in the 2010–11 season, scoring three goals, recording two assists and making the highest average number of passes per match for Spurs with 62.5 and an accuracy rate of 87.4%.[83] At the end of the season, Modrić was voted the Tottenham Hotspur Player of the Year. Then-Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson said he would have chosen Modrić as his Player of the Year for that season.[84]
"I spent four great years there with a lot of emotions, with a lot of love from the club and the fans. I enjoyed every moment with Tottenham. But in one moment you feel you need to take a step forward, to go to a higher level. I think it was the right time for me to go, but I will always be thankful to Tottenham for everything they did for me. I became a better player there and they pushed me to this level where I am at the moment."
—Luka Modrić reflecting on the negotiations with Chelsea and the move to Real Madrid in February 2014.[41]
In mid-2011, Modrić was heavily pursued by Tottenham's London rivals Chelsea, who made a first bid of £22 million, which they increased to £27 million, both of which were rejected by Spurs chairman Daniel Levy.[85][86] After the failed bids, Modrić announced he would welcome a move across London and that he had a "gentleman's agreement" with Levy the club would entertain offers from a "big club".[87] Speculation continued throughout the summer transfer window, culminating in Modrić refusing to play in Tottenham's opening match of the 2011–12 season against Manchester United, which ended in a 3–0 loss.[88] Modrić said his "head was not in the right place" as he continued to force a move to Chelsea.[89] On the final day of the transfer window, Chelsea made an offer of £40 million that was again rejected.[90]
After failing to secure a transfer, Spurs manager Harry Redknapp told Modrić to focus on his playing and named him as a starter.[91] On 18 September, he scored his first goal of the season for Tottenham with a shot from 25 yd (23 m) in a 4–0 home win against Liverpool.[92] On 14 January 2012, Modrić scored the only goal in a home draw with Wolverhampton Wanderers.[93] On 31 January in a 3–1 win against Wigan Athletic, he assisted for the first goal with a crossfield pass and scored the second from 20 yd (18 m).[94] For the third time that season, he was included in "Team of the Week".[95] Modrić scored his last goal for Tottenham on 2 May in a 1–4 away win against Bolton Wanderers with a powerful volley from 25 yd (23 m).[96]
Real Madrid
2012–13: Becoming a starting eleven player in Real Madrid
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/4/4c/Luka_Modri%C4%87_against_Sevilla.jpg/170px-Luka_Modri%C4%87_against_Sevilla.jpg)
On 27 August 2012, Real Madrid announced they had agreed on a deal with Tottenham for an approximate £30 million transfer fee.[97] Modrić signed a five-year contract with the Spanish club.[97][98] Two days later, he made his Real Madrid debut against Barcelona in the second leg final of the 2012 Supercopa de España at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, replacing Mesut Özil in the 83rd minute. Madrid won the match, giving Modrić his first trophy with the club 36 hours after his signing was announced.[99] Despite his positive debut, Modrić at first struggled to settle into the team under manager José Mourinho because of his lack of pre-season training, which he missed as a result of his ongoing transfer negotiations.[41] The presence of veteran midfielders Xabi Alonso and Sami Khedira in defensive midfield, and Özil in offensive midfield, usually kept Modrić out of the starting line-up, limiting him to substitute appearances. He mostly played out-of-position for his first few months at the club. He played his first UEFA Champions League match for Real Madrid in the group stage against Manchester City on 18 September, which Madrid won 3–2. On 3 November, Modrić scored his first goal for Real Madrid in the last minute of their 4–0 victory over Real Zaragoza in La Liga.[100] His most notable match that year was on 4 December, when he assisted for the first two goals of Cristiano Ronaldo and José Callejón with cross-field passes in a 4–1 victory over Ajax in the group stage of the Champions League.[101][102][103] At the end of the year he was voted as the worst signing of the season by Spanish newspaper Marca.[104]
Modrić started in Real Madrid's home match against rivals Barcelona on 2 March 2013. From a corner kick, he assisted Sergio Ramos to score the winning goal in the 82nd minute, giving Real a victory in El Clásico. On 5 March, Modrić came on as a second-half substitute during the decisive Champions League knockout leg against ten-man Manchester United at Old Trafford. With Madrid behind by a goal, Modrić equalised with a long-range shot from 25 yd (23 m) out and played a key role in the rest of the match, which Real Madrid won 2–1, advancing them to the quarter-finals 3–2 on aggregate.[105][106][107] This match is often seen as the turning point in Modrić's career in Real Madrid.[41] On 16 March, he replicated this performance against Mallorca, giving Real Madrid the lead with a long-range volley from 30 yd (27 m); Real Madrid won the match 5–2.[108] Modrić played as a starter in both Champions League semi-final matches against Borussia Dortmund. In the first leg on 24 April, he played in the attacking midfield position where he did not influence the match and the team lost 4–1. On 30 April, in the second leg 2–0 victory, Modrić played as the deep-lying playmaker, making passes to the attackers and creating several chances; he was among the best-rated players that night.[109][110][111] From March 2013, Modrić's form and influence in the midfield continued to improve, distinguishing himself as a player with most passes completed in his team. On 8 May, he assisted from the corner for the first goal and scored the fourth goal in a 6–2 victory over Málaga.[112]
2013–15: Best midfielder in Spain and La Décima
"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, with [Cristiano] Ronaldo."
—Predrag Mijatović praises Modrić's rising performance and significance for the team in January 2014.[113]
With the arrival of new manager Carlo Ancelotti, Modrić became one of the most frequent starters in the team, being partnered in midfield with Xabi Alonso to provide a balance of defence and attack.[114][115] He was consistently the team's most efficient passer, averaging 90% accuracy in La Liga, and also having the most ball recoveries among the squad.[41][59][114] He scored his first goal of the 2013–14 season in the last Champions League group match against Copenhagen, making it his fifth goal for the club, all five of which were scored from the outside the penalty area.[116] Modrić scored his first goal of the Liga season in a 3–0 away win against Getafe, his sixth goal outside the penalty area.[117] Modrić was on the pitch when Real Madrid won the 2013–14 Copa del Rey after defeating Barcelona 2–1 in the final.[118]
In the first leg of the Champions League quarter-finals, Modrić intercepted the ball and assisted Cristiano Ronaldo for the third goal in Real Madrid's 3–0 home victory against Borussia Dortmund. The goal was ultimately decisive because Real went on to lose 2–0 in the second leg, but progressed with a marginal aggregate score of 3–2. In his 100th appearance for the club,[119] Modrić assisted for the first goal in the second leg 4–0 victory over Bayern Munich in the Champions League semi-final, helping Real Madrid reach the final for the first time in 12 years.[120] He was included in UEFA's Team of the Week for both legs of the semi-final.[121][122] On 24 May in the final, Modrić again assisted from a corner for teammate Sergio Ramos, who scored a 93rd-minute equaliser against local rivals Atlético Madrid. Real won 4–1 in extra time, marking the club's tenth Champions League title, locally known as La Décima (lit. 'the Tenth').[123] He was included in the UEFA Champions League Team of the Season[124] and received the LFP award for the "Best Midfielder" of the Spanish first division for that season.[125]
In August 2014, Modrić signed a new contract to stay at Real Madrid until 2018.[126] With the departure of Alonso he was partnered with newly arrived Toni Kroos.[127] Real Madrid began the 2014–15 season by winning the UEFA Super Cup over Sevilla[128] Modrić assisted twice for Bale, first against Real Sociedad in La Liga,[129] and second against Basel in the Champions League.[130][131] In the 2–0 away win against Villarreal, Modrić scored his seventh goal from outside of the box.[132]
In late November, Modrić sustained a thigh injury during an international match against Italy, because of which he did not play for three months.[133] He returned in early March 2015, starting in seven matches and proving his form.[134] On 21 April, in the 3–1 home win against Málaga, he strained ligaments in his right knee, because of which he did not play until May.[135][136][137] With his injury, Real Madrid's 22-match winning run in the season came to an end. His absence and the lack of a quality substitute were seen as the main cause of Real Madrid's failure to win matches in La Liga and the Champions League.[138] Ancelotti said, "Modrić has missed most of the year and this has hurt us."[139] Modrić's influence was recognised and he was selected by professional players in the FIFA FIFPro World XI.[140]
2015–17: Among the world's best players and La Undécima and Duodécima
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For the 2015–16 season, Carlo Ancelotti was replaced by Rafael Benítez under whom Modrić continued to be a key midfield player.[141][142] He sustained a muscular groin injury during an international match against Bulgaria in October, initially suggesting an absence of two-to-three weeks.[143] However, by 20 October, he had recovered in time for the match against Paris Saint-Germain.[144]
With the arrival of new manager Zinedine Zidane in January 2016,[145] the relationship between them was noted in the media, with Modrić described as "master of the game",[141][146] and the crucial "connector" of the defence and attack.[147] It was seen in the first three matches, wins against Deportivo La Coruña and Sporting Gijón and a draw against Real Betis, in which Modrić was praised for creating chances, his positioning and overall performance and influence.[141][147][148] On 7 February, Modrić scored a winning goal from outside the box in a 1–2 away win against Granada.[149] Modrić was a regular in the starting line-up when the team won the 2015–16 Champions League in the final against Atlético.[150] He was included in both Champions League,[151] and La Liga's team of the season.[152] For the second time, he also received the LFP award for the "Best Midfielder" of the Spanish first league.[153] He was for the second time included in the FIFA FIFPro World XI.[154]
On 18 October 2016, Modrić signed a new contract with Real Madrid, keeping him at the club until 2020.[155] Due to injury of a left knee sustained in mid-September, he missed eight matches, returning early November.[156] On 18 December, he won the 2016 FIFA Club World Cup with Real Madrid, receiving the Silver Ball for his performances during the tournament.[157] In January 2017, for the first time was included in the UEFA Team of the Year (2016).[158] On 12 March 2017, in a 2–1 win over Real Betis, Modrić played his 200th match for Real Madrid.[159]
Modrić was a regular starter when Real Madrid won the 2016–17 La Liga,[160][161] as well as the 2016–17 UEFA Champions League, where he provided the assist for Cristiano Ronaldo's second goal in the final against Juventus.[162] Modrić was included in Champions League team of the season[163] and became the first Croatian to win the Champions League three times.[164] He also received the UEFA Club Football award for Best Midfielder of the Champions League season.[165] In the competition for the UEFA Men's Player of the Year Award, he came fourth,[166] while for 2017 Ballon d'Or, fifth.[167] For the third time, he was also included in the FIFA FIFPro World XI.[168]
2017–18: Ballon d'Or and third consecutive Champions League title
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With the departure of James Rodríguez to Bayern Munich, Modrić inherited the team's coveted number 10 jersey for the new 2017–18 season, replacing his previous number 19 jersey.[169] In December, he won the 2017 FIFA Club World Cup with Real Madrid and received the Golden Ball award as the best player of the competition for his performance.[170] His first goal of the season came in a 7–1 win over Deportivo de La Coruña on 21 January 2018.[171] In the same month was for the second time included in the UEFA Team of the Year (2017).[172] Modrić was a regular starter when Real Madrid won the 2017–18 UEFA Champions League, starting in the final victory against Liverpool which saw Madrid win their third consecutive title.[173] For his performances throughout the campaign, Modrić was included in Champions League team of the season for the third consecutive time.[174] He later received the UEFA Club Football Award for Best Midfielder of the Champions League season for the second consecutive time.[175]
Due to his club, and national team performance at the 2018 FIFA World Cup, where also received the Golden Ball,[176] in August and September Modrić won the UEFA Men's Player of the Year Award and The Best FIFA Men's Player Award,[177][178] while in December, he added the Ballon d'Or to his personal tally,[179] marking the first time since 2007 that the award was not won by Lionel Messi or Cristiano Ronaldo. [179][180][181] Furthermore, besides becoming the first Croatian player to win these awards,[182] Modrić was the first player to win both the World Cup Golden Ball and the UEFA Men's Player of the Year Award in the same year since Ronaldo in 1998,[183] and the World Cup Golden Ball and the Best FIFA Men's Player of the Year Award after Romário in 1994.[184] Additionally, he is the first player to win the awards from the former Yugoslavia territory, the first footballer from Eastern Europe to win a Ballon d'Or after Andriy Shevchenko in 2004,[185][186] and the tenth player from Real Madrid to capture the trophy.[187] Furthermore, winning the trophy triggered a clause in his contract, ensuring his stay at the club until 2021.[188] He was also included in the FIFA FIFPro World XI for the fourth time,[189] and won the IFFHS World's Best Playmaker award.[190]
After receiving the FIFA Men's Player of the Year Award, Modrić stated it "shows that we all can become the best with hard work, dedication, and belief, all dreams can come true".[191] Modrić dedicated the Ballon d'Or to "all the players who probably deserved to win it and didn't" in the past decade, including Xavi, Andrés Iniesta, and Wesley Sneijder among others.[179]
2018–21: Two-time champion of Spain
The arrival of new manager Julen Lopetegui in August 2018 saw Modrić given a steady return to the first team as a substitute due to his lack of pre-season training after the 2018 World Cup.[192][193] This included a substitute appearance in his team's 2–4 loss after extra time against Atlético Madrid in the UEFA Super Cup.[194] His first start of the season came on 1 September in a 4–1 home win against Leganés, in which he assisted his side's third goal, scored by Karim Benzema.[195] His 100th appearance in the UEFA club competition came on 19 September in a 3–0 home win against Roma,[26] in which he assisted the second goal, scored by Gareth Bale.[196] On 22 December, Modrić won his third FIFA Club World Cup, scoring the first goal and assisting for the third in the final against Al Ain.[197] On 13 and 19 January 2019, Modrić for the first time scored in two consecutive league games for Real Madrid, in a 1–2 away win against Real Betis and 2–0 home win against Sevilla.[198][199] In the same month was included in the UEFA Team of the Year (2018) for the third time in his career.[200] From 27 February to 5 March, Modrić went through what he described as "the most difficult week of his football life,"[201] with Real Madrid losing to Barcelona twice and Ajax and crashing out of Copa del Rey, title race and the Champions League, respectively.[202][203][204] Despite having had an underwhelming season,[205] for the fifth consecutive time he was included in the FIFA FIFPro World XI.[206]
On 27 August 2019 was the seventh anniversary of Modrić's signing with the club.[207] Although raising doubts due to age of 34 and decision to continue playing with the national team which makes him prone to injuries,[208] Modrić stated that wants to "recapture his best form this season".[205] His first goal of the season came on 5 October in a 4–2 home victory against Granada.[209] On 12 November was awarded with a Golden Foot award.[210] On 23 November he made two assists and scored a goal in a 3–1 home victory against Real Sociedad.[211] On 8 January 2020, Modrić with trivela scored his fifth goal of the season and 100th career goal in a 3–1 victory against Valencia in the semi-finals of 2019–20 Supercopa de España.[212] On 12 January he successfully converted a penalty in a shootout as Real Madrid beat Atlético 4–1 on penalties in the final.[213] Following the continuation of La Liga after a three-month suspension due to COVID-19 pandemic, Modrić was praised for being one of Real Madrid's best players despite his age, resulting in numerous media outlets wondering about prolongation of his contract with the club.[214] On 16 July, he assisted Benzema's opening goal in a 2–1 victory over Villarreal, as Real Madrid secured the league title.[215][216]
On 21 October 2020, he scored his first goal of the 2020–21 season in a Champions League 3–2 defeat to Shakhtar Donetsk.[217] The goal made him the fourth player in the history of the club to score in the competition aged 35 or more, alongside Alfredo Di Stéfano, Ferenc Puskás and Francisco Gento.[218] It was named the Goal of the Week by UEFA.[219] Three days later, he came off the bench to score with trivela his first ever Clásico goal, as Real Madrid defeated Barcelona 3–1.[220][221] On 25 May 2021, he extended his contract with Real Madrid until 2022.[222][223]
2021–present: Fourth La Liga, sixth Champions League and second Copa del Rey title
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On 24 October 2021 of 2021–22 season, Modrić played his 400th game for Real Madrid in a 2–1 Clásico victory.[224] On 30 October, Modrić captained Real Madrid for the first time and assisted for the winning goal, after Marcelo had given him the armband upon being substituted off in the 2–1 victory over Elche.[225][226] On 7 December 2021, he played his 100th Champions League game and was named Man of the Match in a 2–0 victory over Inter Milan.[227] On 16 January 2022, he scored the first goal in the 2022 Supercopa de España Final and was named Man of the Match, as Real Madrid defeated Athletic Bilbao 2–0.[228] The goal made him the oldest goalscorer in the history of the competition.[229] On 5 March, Modrić assisted and scored from outside of the box in a 4–1 victory over Real Socidedad.[230] On 6 and 12 April, Modrić assisted in both legs of Champions League quarter-finals 5–4 aggregate victory against Chelsea. Praised for attacking and defensive performances in both games,[231][232][233] because of a long-range trivela assist for Rodrygo in the crucial moment of the second leg was named Man of the Match as well as voted Player of the Week by UEFA.[234][235] His assist to Rodrygo has been called the "pass of the decade" by Ally McCoist,[236] and as "absolutely perfect, and it was just gorgeous to watch" by Thierry Henry.[237] He was a regular starter on 30 April when Real Madrid won their 35th and his 3rd Spanish title,[238] on 4 May when Real Madrid won in extra time in the second leg against Manchester City, and on 28 May when he won his 5th title in the final of Champions League.[239][240] For the sixth time in his career, he was included in the UEFA Champions League Squad of the Season.[241] On 8 June 2022, he renewed his contract until 2023.[242]
On 20 August 2022, Modrić landed his first goal and assist of the season in a 4–1 away victory over Celta Vigo in a La Liga fixture.[243] On 6 September he scored in his first Champions League game of the season in a 3–0 away victory against Celtic, becoming the eighth Real Madrid player with 100 appearances in the competition.[244][245] On 11 September, he became the third Real Madrid player after Puskás and Francisco Buyo to play 100 games while over 35 years of age.[246][247] In February 2023, Modrić was included for the sixth time in the FIFA FIFPro World XI.[248] On 6 May, he played as a second-half substitute in a 2–1 win over Osasuna in the Copa del Rey final, to achieve his second trophy in that tournament.[249] In June, he extended his contract until 2024.[250]
During the 2023–24 season, with the departure of Benzema, Modrić became vice-captain of the team,[251] but also started to receive less playing time in the starting eleven due to change in formation and competition with younger players like Federico Valverde, Jude Bellingham, Eduardo Camavinga, Aurélien Tchouaméni and Dani Ceballos.[252][253][254] On 28 October, Modrić came on as a second-half substitute and made his 500th appearance for Real Madrid in all competitions in a 2–1 away win against Barcelona, to which he contributed with an assist to the last-minute winning goal by Bellingham.[255] On 27 November, in a 3–0 away win against Cádiz, Modrić set the record for most club appearances after 35 years old, with 161 appearances, breaking the previous record he held with Paco Buyo.[256] On 30 April 2024, Modrić came on as a late substitute in the first match of the Champions League semi-final against Bayern Munich and, at the age of 38 years and 234 days, broke the record for the oldest Real Madrid player to make an appearance in the tournament, beating Puskás by five days.[257] A few days later, on 4 May, he became the oldest player to feature in La Liga for Real Madrid, at the age of 38 years and 238 days, breaking another record of Puskás, in a 3–0 win against Cádiz.[258] Furthermore, he clinched his fourth La Liga title with Real Madrid following that victory, thus matching Marcelo, Karim Benzema and Nacho's record as the club's most decorated player with 25 trophies.[259] He extended his record with his 26th trophy in the Champions League final, following a 2–0 victory against Borussia Dortmund, same as for Nacho.[260] He also became the first player to win six finals in the competition, along with Dani Carvajal.[261]
On 17 July 2024, Modrić extended his contract until 2025 and becoming captain of the team following the departure of Nacho.[262]
International career
Modrić began his international career at youth level, playing for the Croatian under-15, under-17, under-18, under-19 and under-21 teams.[42] He debuted in March 2001 for the under-15 team coached by Martin Novoselac, but nevertheless his talent and psychological maturity, he did not become a regular starter and leading player until physically strengthened and debuted for under-18. Novoselac considers him as a model for all young players because is a result of a gradual and continuous work and effort, as well as talent.[263] Modrić made his full international debut for Croatia on 1 March 2006 in a friendly match against Argentina in Basel, which Croatia won 3–2.[42]
2006–2008: First major tournaments
Modrić made two appearances at the 2006 FIFA World Cup finals as a substitute in the group fixtures against Japan[264] and Australia.[265] With the appointment of new manager Slaven Bilić, Modrić earned greater recognition at international level; he scored his first goal in Croatia's 2–0 friendly win over world champions Italy on 16 August 2006 in Livorno.[266]
Modrić's performances ensured a regular place in the international side and he gave a successful showing in Croatia's UEFA Euro 2008 qualifying campaign, which included home and away victories against England.[267][268] As a young midfielder, much was expected of Modrić; he was often dubbed "the Croatian Cruyff".[52][269] Modrić scored Croatia's first goal of Euro 2008, converting a penalty in the fourth minute of their 1–0 victory against hosts Austria on 8 June 2008 and becoming the team's youngest ever goalscorer at the European Championships (aged 22 years and 273 days).[270][271] It was also the fastest penalty ever awarded and scored in the European Championships history.[272] He continued to impress at the tournament and was named UEFA Man of the Match in Croatia's next match when they defeated one of the pre-tournament favourites and eventual finalists Germany.[273] In the quarter-final against Turkey, Modrić took advantage of a mistake by veteran Turkish goalkeeper Rüştü Reçber, and crossed to teammate Ivan Klasnić for the first goal of the match with one minute of extra time remaining, but Semih Şentürk almost immediately equalised for Turkey. In the ensuing penalty shootout, Modrić's kick was off-target and he failed to score the first penalty and Turkey won the shootout 3–1.[274] At the end of the competition, Modrić was included in the UEFA Team of the Tournament, becoming only the second Croatian to achieve this honour after Davor Šuker.[275]
2008–2016: Subsequent struggles
In the 2010 World Cup qualifiers, Modrić scored three goals, against Kazakhstan,[276] Andorra,[277] and Ukraine;[278] matching Ivica Olić, Ivan Rakitić and Eduardo. The team failed to qualify finishing one point behind second-placed Ukraine. After appearing in all of their UEFA Euro 2012 qualifying matches and scoring a goal against Israel,[279] Modrić started in all three of Croatia group stage matches against the Republic of Ireland, Italy and Spain, but the team failed to progress. His most notable performance was against Spain. The most memorable moment of the match came when Modrić picked the ball on the halfway line skipping Spain's midfield trio, rushing down on the right to reach the penalty area where he evaded a defender and with a trivela crossed from 18 yd (16 m) to Ivan Rakitić, but Iker Casillas saved this attempt.[280][281] Because Croatia did not advance from the group stage, Modrić was not included in the Team of the Tournament, although The Daily Telegraph included him in the best 11 until the semi-finals,[282] and his play was well received by critics.[283][284]
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After the playoffs, Modrić with the Croatian team qualified for the 2014 World Cup. They entered Group A with hosts Brazil, Mexico and Cameroon. Croatia played the opening match against Brazil, which they lost 3–1,[285] and Modrić sustained a minor foot injury.[286][287] In the second match, Croatia won 4–0 against Cameroon,[288] but did not progress to the knockout stage after losing 3–1 to Mexico,[289] despite the great expectations from the Croatian press and public.[290]
In the Euro 2016 qualifying rounds, Modrić scored his first goals for Croatia in three years, the first against Malta on his 29th birthday with a long-range shot,[291] then a penalty against Azerbaijan.[292] On 3 March 2015, Modrić captained Croatia for the first time, in an away draw against Azerbaijan.[293] In the tournament proper, Modrić scored the match-winning goal in Croatia's opening group stage match against Turkey, a volley from 25 metres (28 yards).[294] In so doing, he became the first Croatian to score at the finals of two separate European Championships, having previously scored against Austria in 2008.[295] He was named Man of the Match.[294] Modrić was forced to miss the crucial fixture against Spain on 21 June because of a minor muscle injury.[296][297] However, Croatia won and topped the group,[298] but lost to Portugal 0–1 in extra-time in the round of 16.[299]
2016–2018: Golden Ball of the 2018 World Cup
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For Croatia's 2018 World Cup qualifying campaign, Modrić became the new team captain, following Darijo Srna's retirement.[300] Croatia started the campaign well; however, following 1–0 defeats to Iceland[301] and Turkey[302] and a 1–1 draw with Finland (in which Modrić made his 100th appearance for the national team),[303][304] Croatia seriously compromised their qualification for the tournament.[305][306] This caused Modrić to publicly state his lack of confidence in coach Ante Čačić.[307][308][309] Čačić was soon replaced by Zlatko Dalić ahead of Croatia's final qualifier against Ukraine away,[310] which Croatia won 2–0 and won a place in the play-offs.[311] Modrić scored a penalty in the 4–1 victory over Greece in the second qualifying round,[312] enabling his team to qualify for the World Cup.
Croatia were placed in Group D alongside Argentina, Iceland and Nigeria. During the tournament, Modrić—along with Ivan Rakitić and Mario Mandžukić—were referred to as Croatia's second "Golden Generation".[313][314] In Croatia's opening win against Nigeria, Modrić once again successfully executed a penalty kick and was named Man of the Match.[315][316] He also scored in Croatia's subsequent 3–0 win over Argentina with a long-range shot from 25 yards (23 metres),[317] also being named Man of the Match.[318][319] After also featuring in the final group stage match, against Iceland, his performances in the first round of the tournament saw him ranked by FourFourTwo, The Daily Telegraph and ESPN as the best player of the group stage.[320][321][322]
In the round of 16 against Denmark on 1 July, with the score tied at 1–1, Modrić created a goalscoring opportunity for Ante Rebić in the second half of extra-time, who was brought down in the penalty area; Modrić proceeded to take the penalty, but his strike was saved by Kasper Schmeichel. However, Modrić managed to score his spot-kick during the ensuing penalty shoot-out and Croatia advanced to the next round following a 3–2 victory on penalties.[323][324][325] In the quarter-finals against hosts Russia on 7 July, Modrić provided an assist in extra-time for Domagoj Vida from a corner kick, and once again scored in the victorious penalty shoot-out following a 2–2 draw; he was named Man of the Match for the third time in the tournament.[326][327] In the semi-final against England on 11 July, Croatia advanced to the World Cup final for the first time in their history following a 2–1 victory in extra time.[328] It was reported two days before the final match that Modrić ran the most miles out of any player and was third by created chances, as well had most dribbles per match and completed passes in the opponent's half in his team.[329] Although Croatia were beaten 4–2 by France in the final on 15 July,[330] Modrić was awarded the Golden Ball for the best player of the tournament,[176] and was included in the Team of the Tournament.[331][332] After the squad's huge welcome in Zagreb,[333] Modrić and his teammates Danijel Subašić, Šime Vrsaljko and Dominik Livaković were welcomed by tens of thousands of people in their hometown of Zadar.[334]
Modrić took part in all four matches in the inaugural edition of the UEFA Nations League as Croatia finished at the bottom of Group A4 following historical 6–0 away defeat to Spain in September and a 2–1 defeat to England at the Wembley Stadium in November 2018.[335][336]
2019–2022: Bronze Ball of the 2022 World Cup
During the Euro 2020 qualifying rounds, Modrić scored two goals; a penalty in the away 1–1 draw with Azerbaijan and a solo-effort in the home 3–0 victory over Hungary as Croatia topped the group and qualified for the tournament.[337][338] However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the tournament was postponed for a year.[339] On 24 March 2021, Modrić made his 134th appearance for the national team in a 1–0 2022 World Cup qualifying defeat to Slovenia, equalling Darijo Srna as the most capped player in the history of the team.[340] Three days later, in a 1–0 World Cup qualifying victory over Cyprus, he surpassed Srna's record.[341][342]
Modrić was selected to the final squad for the UEFA Euro 2020 on 17 May.[343] Despite Croatia's poor showings in their first two group stage games, Modrić was named the Man of the Match in the second one, a 1–1 draw with the Czech Republic on 18 June.[344] Four days later, in the 3–1 victory over Scotland, with a trivela he scored Croatia's second goal and provided Ivan Perišić with an assist for the third goal as Croatia progressed to the round of 16.[345] Modrić's goal made him Croatia's oldest ever goalscorer at the European Championships (aged 35 years and 286 days), while simultaneously holding the record for the youngest goalscorer that he set in 2008.[271]
During the 2022 World Cup qualifying, Modrić scored three times and assisted twice in seven appearances.[346] On 13 June 2022, he scored a penalty in a 1–0 away win over France in the 2022–23 UEFA Nations League A, to be Croatia's first ever win against the latter.[347] On 25 September, he scored opening goal in the last group's game and 3–1 away victory against Austria,[348] helping the team advance to the 2023 UEFA Nations League Finals.[349] On 9 November, Modrić was selected to Croatia's final squad for the 2022 FIFA World Cup.[350] In the first and third group stage games against Morocco and Belgium, he was named the Man of the Match.[351] He became the first player to play in both the European Championship and the World Cup in three different decades.[352] In the round of 16 and quarter-finals, Croatia advanced on penalties against Japan and Brazil, with Modrić scoring in the shoot-out against Brazil,[353][354] and captaining Croatia to a second consecutive World Cup semi-final where they lost 3–0 to Argentina. In the third place play-off,[355] Croatia prevailed 2–1 over Morocco,[356][357] as Modrić won the Bronze Ball.[358]
2023: Euro 2024 qualifying and Nations League finals
On 25 March 2023, in a UEFA Euro 2024 qualifying match against Wales, Modrić became the oldest ever player to play a game for Croatia―aged 37 years, 6 months and 16 days―surpassing Dražen Ladić's record set in 1999.[359]
On 14 June 2023, Modrić was widely praised for his performance as he led Croatia to victory over Netherlands (4–2, a.e.t.) at the De Kuip in Rotterdam, in the semi-finals of the 2023 UEFA Nations League Finals.[360] In the match, Modrić won a penalty being brought down by Cody Gakpo, which was converted by Andrej Kramarić. As the game went to extra time, he assisted Bruno Petković for the winner and closed the win scoring a penalty himself. Modrić was subsequently named Man of the match.[361][362][363][364] Modrić finished second place as Croatia eventually lost to Spain 5–4 on penalties in the final, one of which he scored, following a 0–0 draw after extra time.[365]
2024: Euro 2024
On 20 May 2024, Modrić was included in the final squad for the UEFA Euro 2024.[366] He became one of only three players to feature in five European Championships.[367] In the last group stage match against Italy, he had his penalty saved by Gianluigi Donnarumma, but scored a goal a minute later, becoming the oldest goalscorer at the European competition and overpassing Ivica Vastić for 32 days.[368] However, he was awarded player of the match, despite a stoppage-time equalizer from Mattia Zaccagni that resulted in a 1–1 draw, which eliminated his team from the tournament.[369]
Player profile
Style of play
"Not only is he a very hard worker, he has a good brain and he provided some calmness and composure to the midfield. His passing was neat and his contribution was outstanding. He was not only winning the ball, he was passing well. We thought that he was very influential. He did not just work hard, he made the other people play well around him".
–Gérard Houllier, UEFA Technical Team[273]
A diminutive and technically gifted midfielder, Modrić is typically deployed as a creative playmaker and sets the tempo of the match by controlling possession from the middle of the pitch. He has been widely applauded by many footballing pundits, managers, and fellow players for his swift passing and long range shots, both often in the style of the trivela technique, as well as his composure and ability to evade tackles under pressure.[370][371][59][372][373][374] He is also noted for his tactical intelligence and versatility in both attack and defence, as well as his vision, interpretation of space, and work rate.[375] A former attacking midfielder, Modrić is considered a veteran of the "pre-assist" or build-up play, often creating space and time for his teammates to shoot or deliver goal-bound passes to other players.[376][377][378][379] He is also effective at taking set pieces, particularly corners or wide free kicks.[380]
Modrić has been integral to the success of both Real Madrid and the Croatia national team, having won numerous individual honours for his contributions to club and country.[139][381] His playstyle has earned him several nicknames as dubbed by the media and fandom, including "the midfield maestro", "the magician", "the puppet master", among others.[382][376][383][384][385][386]
Position
Modrić's complex game has brought him consistent success in the clubs for which he has played. Initially a trequartista or attacking midfielder at Dinamo Zagreb and in his early career at Tottenham, in the 2010–11 season he flourished in a central midfield role as a deep-lying playmaker (regista) who conducts the attack and creates chances for teammates.[387] Afterwards, Modrić acknowledged the role that Harry Redknapp played in shaping of deep-lying his style, saying that dropping back enabled him "to read the game better" and show his full "creativity".[388] Although a central midfielder, Modrić is also a hard-working player who has been seen to adopt a defensive midfield role in addition to playmaking, tracking back to win the ball from the opposition and prepare for a counter-attack, making him one of the most versatile players in the world, capable of playing in several midfield positions.[389][390] According to Jonathan Wilson, in a 4–2–3–1 system Modrić is a third type of a holding midfielder, being "neither entirely destructive or creative", but a "carrier" who – courtesy of his dribbling ability and attacking drive – is "capable of making late runs or carrying the ball at his feet", but in his case "with a hint of regista".[391][392][393] As such, his role has also been likened to that of a mezzala, in Italian football jargon, namely an offensive–minded box-to-box or central midfielder.[379]
The switch to a more deep-lying position reduced his number of assists and goals, as well as his shot per game count (1.2), although his game was no longer based on being a goal threat; despite this, he had the second-highest count of key passes per game (2.06) in the team, as well as a very high pass accuracy rate (87%), with the highest passes per game count (62.5) in the team, the most long balls per game (5.6), the most successful dribbles (2.2), interceptions (2.5), and the highest tackle (1.9) count per game among others, high statistics which placed him amongst the top midfielders of the Premier League.[387][394] By the 2011–12 season statistically he was among the top-rated central and all-round midfielders across the top five leagues, alongside players like Xabi Alonso, Andrea Pirlo, Bastian Schweinsteiger and Xavi.[395][396]
Upon Modrić's arrival to Real Madrid, his midfield position was described as numbers six (defensive), eight (central) or ten (attacking), depending on the tactics,[397] and his role was described as the second deep-lying pivot alongside Xabi Alonso in the 2012–13 season, a classic deep-lying playmaker whose creativity was needed to dictate his team's play and unlock the opposing defence.[398][399] In the first half of the 2013–14 season, during which he formed an effective central midfield partnership with Alonso and Ángel Di María, Modrić made more tackles (56) than any other Real Madrid player in La Liga with an average number of 2.86 tackles per match, as well as making the most completed passes (878) in the opposition half of the pitch among Real Madrid players, with the highest passing accuracy in La Liga (90%) (also the highest of any midfielder in Europe's top five leagues who have made five or more assists during the season).[41] In the 2014–15 season, with the arrival of Toni Kroos, Real Madrid no longer had an effective and natural ball-winner alongside their playmakers in midfield, while the team possessed many attackers. Therefore, in addition to producing the highest count of passes (60.7–64.7) and key passes per match (0.8–1.2) within the team, both Modrić and Kroos had more defensive responsibility to set the rhythm of the team's gameplay in midfield and orchestrate counterattacks.[127][400] Modrić's average passing accuracy during the season was between 91.6 and 92%, while his highest completion rate in a single match occurred in October against Barcelona when he completed all 42 attempted passes.[401] For all of 2014, Modrić's dribble attempts (75) at a success rate of 76% were second in Europe's top five leagues.[402] During the 2015–16 season, although he placed only 12th in terms of chances created, almost all players above him were either forwards or attacking midfielders with no defensive responsibilities.[377]
Reception
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/d/d7/Luka_Modric_-_Croatia_vs._Portugal%2C_10th_June_2013_%282%29.jpg/220px-Luka_Modric_-_Croatia_vs._Portugal%2C_10th_June_2013_%282%29.jpg)
Modrić is widely regarded as one of the best and most well-rounded and effective midfielders of all time.[403][404][405][406][9] According to Jonathan Wilson, what sets Modrić apart from traditional playmakers is his simultaneous focus on defensive and attacking duties.[407][408] Due to his footballing intelligence, skill and fairplay he was compared to Paul Scholes,[409][410] Xavi, Andrés Iniesta,[411] and Andrea Pirlo.[412][413][414] In his youth, he had also been compared to Johan Cruyff,[52][269] while his main influences were compatriot Zvonimir Boban and Italian playmaker Francesco Totti.[39]
He has been praised for being an essential part of his team's wins, especially in the most important tournaments. For example, his performance against PSG in leg two of the round of 16 in the UCL in 2022 was called one of the "most imperious midfielder performances".[415] He was praised for his touch, playmaking skills, passing, defense and vision, with his efforts being essential to Real Madrid's win.[415] Another match in which he gained praise, was in the 2022 FIFA World Cup, where Modrić provided another standout performance to help Croatia beat favorites Brazil in the quarterfinals.[416][417]
He has been consistently praised by some of the sport's most experienced managers, including Johan Cruyff,[418] Alex Ferguson,[409] Pep Guardiola,[419] and Sven-Göran Eriksson among others.[420] From those who managed him, José Mourinho said he wanted Modrić in Real Madrid because of his influence on the game, tactical level and because he has "that artistic sense".[397] Carlo Ancelotti praised Modrić's technique and versatility making him "one of the best midfielders in the world right now, because he can play in more than one position".[421][422] Zinedine Zidane included him in his best XI currently playing the game,[423] and in 2016 predicted that Modrić would win Ballon d'Or.[57] Slaven Bilić said Modrić "is a player who makes others better, they all benefit from him being in the team. He's not selfish, he's playing for the team ... he's a complete player; good in defence, good in offence—it looks like he was born with the ball at his feet".[59]
Modrić is unanimously considered the greatest Croatian footballer of all time by his fellow countrymen, including people like Robert Prosinečki and Davor Šuker.[54][424][425][426] Predrag Mijatović considered him as the best footballer in the history of the Balkans,[427] while Andrés Iniesta, Andriy Shevchenko, Rio Ferdinand, Jan Oblak, and others called him one of the greatest midfielders to ever play the game.[428][429][430][431]
It is considered that his international recognition helped in nation branding of Croatia, place branding of Zadar and further recognition of Croatia national football team under his captaincy.[432][433]
Personal life
Modrić married Vanja Bosnić in May 2010 in the Croatian capital Zagreb in a private ceremony after four years of dating,[434] and a year later in the Catholic Church.[435] They have three children.[436][437][438][439] Modrić is a cousin of Australian footballer Mark Viduka,[440] and the godfather of Mateo Kovačić's son Ivan.[441] Modrić generally maintains a low profile outside of football.[41][442]
In late 2019, Modrić released his autobiography Moja igra (My Game), co-written by prominent Croatian-Italian sports journalist Robert Matteoni.[443][444] Particular emphasis in autobiography was placed on Modrić's childhood, growing up in war conditions and development of a football career, with fundamental topics being football, family and friends.[445]
Produced by Fulwell 73, FIFA released Captains in 2022, an eight-part sports docuseries following six national team captains in their respective 2022 FIFA World Cup qualification campaigns.[446] Modrić, representing Croatia, starred in the first season alongside five other international footballers. It was released by Netflix and also shown on FIFA's own streaming platform, FIFA+.[447]
Legal issues
In March 2018, in an embezzlement and tax evasion trial against the former Dinamo Zagreb executive, Zdravko Mamić, Modrić was called as a witness.[448] Throughout the mid-late 2000s, Modrić signed multiple contracts with Mamić to play at Dinamo Zagreb.[449][450] Modrić annexed most of his Tottenham transfer fee to Mamić because he was the broker of the move and gave Modrić financial backing early on in his career.[451][452] Despite stating in 2017 that he signed the annexe clause of the contract ten years earlier, in his testimony he stated that he signed it in 2004, the year of his first contract. Modrić was charged with perjury for stating that he annexed his fee at an earlier date than he allegedly had.[448] Facing the judge, he said, "I came here to state my defence and tell the truth, like every time so far. My conscience is clear".[450][453] The Croatian Football Federation stood behind Modrić,[450] but a part of the Croatian public, frustrated with the corruption in Croatian football, perceived the alleged perjury as a defence of Mamić and became critical of Modrić.[454][455][456] Some international news outlets praised him for dealing with the stress of his legal situation while performing with the Croatian team at the 2018 FIFA World Cup.[457] In October and December 2018, the perjury charge was rejected by the Croatian courts.[458][459]
Career statistics
Club
- As of match played 1 June 2024[460]
Club | Season | League | National cup[a] | League cup[b] | Continental | Other | Total | |||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Division | Apps | Goals | Apps | Goals | Apps | Goals | Apps | Goals | Apps | Goals | Apps | Goals | ||
Dinamo Zagreb | 2003–04 | Prva HNL | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | – | – | – | 0 | 0 | |||
2004–05 | Prva HNL | 7 | 0 | 1 | 0 | – | – | – | 8 | 0 | ||||
2005–06 | Prva HNL | 32 | 7 | 1 | 0 | – | – | – | 33 | 7 | ||||
2006–07 | Prva HNL | 30 | 6 | 7 | 1 | – | 6[c] | 0 | 1[d] | 1 | 44 | 8 | ||
2007–08 | Prva HNL | 25 | 13 | 8 | 1 | – | 12[e] | 3 | – | 45 | 17 | |||
Total | 94 | 26 | 17 | 2 | – | 18 | 3 | 1 | 1 | 130 | 32 | |||
Zrinjski Mostar (loan) | 2003–04 | Bosnian Premier League | 25 | 8 | – | – | – | – | 25 | 8 | ||||
Inter Zaprešić (loan) | 2004–05 | Prva HNL | 18 | 4 | – | – | – | – | 18 | 4 | ||||
Tottenham Hotspur | 2008–09 | Premier League | 34 | 3 | 2 | 1 | 4 | 0 | 4[f] | 1 | – | 44 | 5 | |
2009–10 | Premier League | 25 | 3 | 7 | 0 | 0 | 0 | — | – | 32 | 3 | |||
2010–11 | Premier League | 32 | 3 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 9[g] | 1 | – | 43 | 4 | ||
2011–12 | Premier League | 36 | 4 | 3 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 2[h] | 1 | – | 41 | 5 | ||
Total | 127 | 13 | 14 | 1 | 4 | 0 | 15 | 3 | – | 160 | 17 | |||
Real Madrid | 2012–13 | La Liga | 33 | 3 | 8 | 0 | – | 11[g] | 1 | 1[i] | 0 | 53 | 4 | |
2013–14 | La Liga | 34 | 1 | 6 | 0 | – | 11[g] | 1 | – | 51 | 2 | |||
2014–15 | La Liga | 16 | 1 | 0 | 0 | – | 6[g] | 0 | 3[j] | 0 | 25 | 1 | ||
2015–16 | La Liga | 32 | 2 | 0 | 0 | – | 12[g] | 1 | – | 44 | 3 | |||
2016–17 | La Liga | 25 | 1 | 2 | 0 | – | 11[g] | 0 | 3[k] | 0 | 41 | 1 | ||
2017–18 | La Liga | 26 | 1 | 2 | 0 | – | 11[g] | 1 | 4[l] | 0 | 43 | 2 | ||
2018–19 | La Liga | 34 | 3 | 3 | 0 | – | 6[g] | 0 | 3[m] | 1 | 46 | 4 | ||
2019–20 | La Liga | 31 | 3 | 1 | 0 | – | 6[g] | 1 | 2[i] | 1 | 40 | 5 | ||
2020–21 | La Liga | 35 | 5 | 0 | 0 | – | 12[g] | 1 | 1[i] | 0 | 48 | 6 | ||
2021–22 | La Liga | 28 | 2 | 2 | 0 | – | 13[g] | 0 | 2[i] | 1 | 45 | 3 | ||
2022–23 | La Liga | 33 | 4 | 4 | 0 | – | 10[g] | 2 | 5[n] | 0 | 52 | 6 | ||
2023–24 | La Liga | 32 | 2 | 1 | 0 | – | 11[g] | 0 | 2[i] | 0 | 46 | 2 | ||
2024–25 | La Liga | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | – | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | ||
Total | 359 | 28 | 29 | 0 | – | 120 | 8 | 26 | 3 | 534 | 39 | |||
Career total | 623 | 79 | 60 | 3 | 4 | 0 | 153 | 14 | 27 | 4 | 867 | 100 |
- ^ Includes Croatian Cup, FA Cup, Copa del Rey
- ^ Includes Football League Cup
- ^ Four appearances in UEFA Champions League, two appearances in UEFA Cup
- ^ Appearance in Croatian Football Super Cup
- ^ Six appearances and two goals in UEFA Champions League, six appearances and one goal in UEFA Cup
- ^ Appearances in UEFA Cup
- ^ a b c d e f g h i j k l m Appearances in UEFA Champions League
- ^ Appearances in UEFA Europa League
- ^ a b c d e Appearance(s) in Supercopa de España
- ^ Two appearances in Supercopa de España, one appearance in UEFA Super Cup
- ^ One appearance in UEFA Super Cup, two appearances in FIFA Club World Cup
- ^ One appearance in Supercopa de España, one appearance in UEFA Super Cup, two appearances in FIFA Club World Cup
- ^ One appearance in UEFA Super Cup, two appearances and one goal in FIFA Club World Cup
- ^ Two appearances in Supercopa de España, one appearance in UEFA Super Cup, two appearances in FIFA Club World Cup
International
- As of match played 24 June 2024[44]
National team | Year | Apps | Goals |
---|---|---|---|
Croatia | 2006 | 12 | 2 |
2007 | 10 | 1 | |
2008 | 11 | 3 | |
2009 | 3 | 1 | |
2010 | 8 | 0 | |
2011 | 9 | 1 | |
2012 | 9 | 0 | |
2013 | 10 | 0 | |
2014 | 11 | 2 | |
2015 | 4 | 0 | |
2016 | 8 | 1 | |
2017 | 8 | 1 | |
2018 | 15 | 2 | |
2019 | 9 | 2 | |
2020 | 6 | 0 | |
2021 | 13 | 4 | |
2022 | 16 | 3 | |
2023 | 10 | 1 | |
2024 | 6 | 2 | |
Total | 178 | 26 |
- As of match played 24 June 2024
- Croatia score listed first, score column indicates score after each Modrić goal.[460]
No. | Date | Venue | Cap | Opponent | Score | Result | Competition |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | 16 August 2006 | Stadio Armando Picchi, Livorno, Italy | 8 | ![]() |
2–0 | 2–0 | Friendly |
2 | 7 October 2006 | Stadion Maksimir, Zagreb, Croatia | 10 | ![]() |
7–0 | 7–0 | UEFA Euro 2008 qualifying |
3 | 7 February 2007 | Stadion Kantrida, Rijeka, Croatia | 13 | ![]() |
2–0 | 2–1 | Friendly |
4 | 8 June 2008 | Ernst-Happel-Stadion, Vienna, Austria | 27 | ![]() |
1–0 | 1–0 | UEFA Euro 2008 |
5 | 6 September 2008 | Stadion Maksimir, Zagreb, Croatia | 30 | ![]() |
2–0 | 3–0 | 2010 FIFA World Cup qualification |
6 | 15 October 2008 | Stadion Maksimir, Zagreb, Croatia | 33 | ![]() |
3–0 | 4–0 | 2010 FIFA World Cup qualification |
7 | 6 June 2009 | Stadion Maksimir, Zagreb, Croatia | 35 | ![]() |
2–2 | 2–2 | 2010 FIFA World Cup qualification |
8 | 6 September 2011 | Stadion Maksimir, Zagreb, Croatia | 49 | ![]() |
1–1 | 3–1 | UEFA Euro 2012 qualifying |
9 | 9 September 2014 | Stadion Maksimir, Zagreb, Croatia | 80 | ![]() |
1–0 | 2–0 | UEFA Euro 2016 qualifying |
10 | 13 October 2014 | Stadion Gradski vrt, Osijek, Croatia | 82 | ![]() |
5–0 | 6–0 | UEFA Euro 2016 qualifying |
11 | 12 June 2016 | Parc des Princes, Paris, France | 91 | ![]() |
1–0 | 1–0 | UEFA Euro 2016 |
12 | 9 November 2017 | Stadion Maksimir, Zagreb, Croatia | 102 | ![]() |
1–0 | 4–1 | 2018 FIFA World Cup qualification |
13 | 16 June 2018 | Kaliningrad Stadium, Kaliningrad, Russia | 107 | ![]() |
2–0 | 2–0 | 2018 FIFA World Cup |
14 | 21 June 2018 | Nizhny Novgorod Stadium, Nizhny Novgorod, Russia | 108 | ![]() |
2–0 | 3–0 | 2018 FIFA World Cup |
15 | 9 September 2019 | Bakcell Arena, Baku, Azerbaijan | 124 | ![]() |
1–0 | 1–1 | UEFA Euro 2020 qualifying |
16 | 10 October 2019 | Stadion Poljud, Split, Croatia | 125 | ![]() |
1–0 | 3–0 | UEFA Euro 2020 qualifying |
17 | 30 March 2021 | Stadion Rujevica, Rijeka, Croatia | 136 | ![]() |
2–0 | 3–0 | 2022 FIFA World Cup qualification |
18 | 22 June 2021 | Hampden Park, Glasgow, Scotland | 141 | ![]() |
2–1 | 3–1 | UEFA Euro 2020 |
19 | 11 October 2021 | Stadion Gradski vrt, Osijek, Croatia | 144 | ![]() |
2–2 | 2–2 | 2022 FIFA World Cup qualification |
20 | 11 November 2021 | National Stadium, Ta' Qali, Malta | 145 | ![]() |
4–1 | 7–1 | 2022 FIFA World Cup qualification |
21 | 29 March 2022 | Education City Stadium, Al Rayyan, Qatar | 148 | ![]() |
1–1 | 2–1 | Friendly |
22 | 13 June 2022 | Stade de France, Saint-Denis, France | 152 | ![]() |
1–0 | 1–0 | 2022–23 UEFA Nations League A |
23 | 25 September 2022 | Ernst-Happel-Stadion, Vienna, Austria | 154 | ![]() |
1–0 | 3–1 | 2022–23 UEFA Nations League A |
24 | 14 June 2023 | De Kuip, Rotterdam, Netherlands | 165 | ![]() |
4–2 | 4–2 (a.e.t.) | 2023 UEFA Nations League Finals |
25 | 8 June 2024 | Estádio Nacional, Oeiras, Portugal | 175 | ![]() |
1–0 | 2–1 | Friendly |
26 | 24 June 2024 | Red Bull Arena, Leipzig, Germany | 178 | ![]() |
1–0 | 1–1 | UEFA Euro 2024 |
Honours
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/e/ed/Luka_Modri%C4%87_at_celebration_after_winning_the_2018_UEFA_Champions_League_Final_%28cropped%29.jpg/220px-Luka_Modri%C4%87_at_celebration_after_winning_the_2018_UEFA_Champions_League_Final_%28cropped%29.jpg)
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/e/e2/Luka_Modri%C4%87_receives_the_golden_ball_prize_at_the_hands_of_Russian_President_Vladimir_Putin.jpg/220px-Luka_Modri%C4%87_receives_the_golden_ball_prize_at_the_hands_of_Russian_President_Vladimir_Putin.jpg)
Dinamo Zagreb[3]
Real Madrid[3]
- La Liga: 2016–17, 2019–20,[461] 2021–22,[462] 2023–24[463]
- Copa del Rey: 2013–14, 2022–23[464]
- Supercopa de España: 2012, 2017, 2020,[465] 2022,[466] 2024[467]
- UEFA Champions League: 2013–14, 2015–16, 2016–17, 2017–18, 2021–22,[468] 2023–24[469]
- UEFA Super Cup: 2014, 2016, 2017, 2022[470]
- FIFA Club World Cup: 2014,[471] 2016, 2017, 2018, 2022[472]
Croatia
- FIFA World Cup runner-up: 2018;[330] third place: 2022[356]
- UEFA Nations League runner-up: 2022–23
Individual
- Bosnian Premier League Player of the Year: 2003
- Best Croatian U-21 player: 2004[473]
- Croatian Football Hope of the Year: 2004
- Croatian Footballer of the Year: 2007, 2008, 2011, 2014, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021,[474] 2022,[475] 2023[476]
- HNL's Footballer of the Year: 2007
- Prva HNL Player of the Year: 2007
- SN Yellow Shirt Award: 2007–08
- UEFA European Championship Team of the Tournament: 2008
- Tottenham Hotspur Player of the Year: 2010–11
- IFFHS World Team of the Decade: 2011–2020[477]
- IFFHS UEFA Team of the Decade: 2011–2020[478]
- UEFA Champions League Team of the Season: 2013–14,[124] 2015–16,[151] 2016–17,[163] 2017–18,[174] 2020–21,[479] 2021–22[241]
- La Liga's Best Midfielder: 2013–14,[480] 2015–16[153]
- Football Oscar for Best Croatian Player: 2013,[481] 2014,[482] 2015,[483] 2016,[484] 2017,[485] 2018,[486] 2019,[487] 2020,[488] 2021,[489] 2022,[490] 2023[491]
- FIFA FIFPRO World 11: 2015,[140] 2016,[154] 2017,[168] 2018,[189] 2019[206] 2022[248]
- La Liga Team of the Season: 2015–16,[152] 2021–22,[492] 2022–23[493]
- UEFA La Liga Team of the Season: 2015–16[494]
- FIFA Club World Cup Silver Ball: 2016[157]
- ESPN Midfielder of the Year: 2016,[495] 2017,[496] 2018[497]
- UEFA Team of the Year: 2016,[158] 2017,[172] 2018[200]
- UEFA Champions League Midfielder of the Season: 2016–17,[165] 2017–18[175]
- IFFHS Men's World Team: 2017,[498] 2018,[499] 2022[500]
- FIFA Club World Cup Golden Ball: 2017[170]
- FIFA World Cup Golden Ball: 2018[176]
- FIFA World Cup Fantasy Team: 2018[332]
- FIFA World Cup Dream Team: 2018[331]
- UEFA Men's Player of the Year Award: 2017–18[177]
- The Best FIFA Men's Player: 2018[178]
- IFFHS World's Best Playmaker: 2018[190]
- Goal 50: 2017–18[501]
- Ballon d'Or: 2018[179]
- World Soccer Player of the Year: 2018[502]
- The Guardian Best Footballer in the World: 2018[503]
- AIPS Athlete of the Year: 2018[504]
- Dongqiudi Player of the Year: 2018[505]
- HNS Trophy for Best Croatian Player: 2018[506]
- HOO Sportsman of the Year: 2018[507]
- SN Sportsman of the Year: 2018,[508] 2022[509]
- Franjo Bučar State Award for Sport – Yearly Award: 2018[510]
- Honorary citizen of the city of Zadar (2018)[511][512] and Zadar County (2019)[513]
- City of Zadar Award: 2018[512]
- Golden Foot: 2019[210]
- Real Madrid Player of the Season: 2020–21[514]
- ESM Team of the Year: 2021–22[515]
- Marca Leyenda Award: 2022[516]
- FIFA World Cup Bronze Ball: 2022[358]
Orders
See also
- List of men's footballers with 100 or more international caps
- List of men's footballers with the most official appearances
References
- ^ "FIFA World Cup Russia 2018: List of Players: Croatia" (PDF). FIFA. 15 July 2018. p. 7. Archived from the original (PDF) on 11 June 2019.
- ^ Hugman, Barry J., ed. (2010). The PFA Footballers' Who's Who 2010–11. Mainstream Publishing. p. 290. ISBN 978-1-84596-601-0.
- ^ a b c d "Player Profile". Real Madrid CF. Archived from the original on 24 November 2017. Retrieved 18 November 2017.
- ^ "Lȗka". Hrvatski jezični portal (in Serbo-Croatian). Archived from the original on 26 December 2018. Retrieved 17 March 2018.
Lȗka
- ^ "mȍdar". Hrvatski jezični portal (in Serbo-Croatian). Archived from the original on 26 December 2018. Retrieved 17 March 2018.
Módrić
- ^ "Real Madrid's next captain revealed as Nacho Fernandez closes in on Saudi Arabia transfer | Goal.com". www.goal.com. 23 June 2024. Retrieved 25 June 2024.
- ^ "Real Madrid decide new captain as Nacho nears exit – report". Yahoo Sports. 24 June 2024. Retrieved 25 June 2024.
- ^ "Luka Modric: How Croatia idol defied the odds to become one of football's greatest players". BBC Sport. 24 June 2024. Retrieved 25 June 2024.
- ^ a b
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- Maw, James (2 December 2014). "'Ice cold' Luka Modric now Real Madrid's second most important Galactico. FourFourTwo. Retrieved 15 December 2021.
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- Sherman, Justin. (19 October 2017) "The making of Luka Modric from war-torn Croatia to the world's best midfielder". The Football Times. Retrieved 16 June 2018
- Buskulic, Ante; Tironi, Hrvoje Tironi. (18 November 2017). "How Luka Modric went from rejected youth player to the best midfielder in the world". Goal.com. Retrieved 16 June 2018.
- Cartlidge, David. (15 December 2017). "FourFourTwo's 100 Best Football Players in the World 2017: No.6, Luka Modric". FourFourTwo. Retrieved 15 December 2021.
- Brown, Euan (22 June 2018). "Luka Modric: It's time to give him a seat at the elite table". UK Blasting News. Retrieved 1 July 2018. "It's about time [Luka Modric] was recognised as one of the game's all-time greats".
- Nakrani, Sachin. (30 June 2018). "Luka Modric: the unassuming genius driving Croatia’s tilt at the World Cup". The Observer. Retrieved 1 July 2018
- Lea, Greg (13 June 2019). "Ranked! The 15 best central midfielders in the world". FourFourTwo. Retrieved 13 April 2022.
- N/A (26 July 2019). "Ranked! The 101 greatest football players of the last 25 years: full list". FourFourTwo. Retrieved 13 April 2022.
- 90min Staff (20 January 2020). "Luka Modric: The Most Dominant Midfielder of His Generation". 90min.com. Retrieved 13 April 2022.
- HS, Shreyas (12 February 2021). "10 greatest midfielders of all time". Sportskeeda. Retrieved 15 13 April 2022.
- Doyle, Mark; Garganese, Carlo (13 November 2021). "Modric, Xavi, Pirlo and the top 20 central midfielders in history". Goal.com. Retrieved 13 April 2022.
- Mackenzie, Alasdair (8 April 2022). "Ranked! The 100 best players of the 21st Century". FourFourTwo. Retrieved 13 April 2022.
- (10 December 2022) "Sosa: Modric in top five midfielders of all time". FIFA. Retrieved 27 January 2024.
- Pranggon, Hassan Mehedi (13 December 2022) "Luka Modrić: In a legendary league of his own". SB Nation. Retrieved 23 November 2023.
- ^ "'Luka Modric the best player in the world' – are these the top 25 footballers of 2017? | Goal.com". www.goal.com. 19 September 2023. Retrieved 25 June 2024.
- ^
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{{cite web}}
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I svojim igrama u kvalifikacijama i u Real Madridu pokazao sam da me to ništa ne ometa. Znam da mi je savjest čista, to je meni najbitnije. Mislim da je sve ovo što mi se događa velika nepravda, ali što je tu je, vjerojatno tu ima i neke moje krivice, no dobro... Ponavljam, najbitnije je da mi je savjest čista i da mi te stvari ne smetaju i ne utječu na moju izvedbu na terenu
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:|work=
ignored (help) - ^ "'I'll end my career at Real' – Modric wins Marca Legend Award". Eurosport. 28 May 2022. Retrieved 28 May 2022.
- ^ "News: President Decorates Croatian National Football Team Players and Coaching Staff". Office of the President of the Republic of Croatia. 13 November 2018. Archived from the original on 9 April 2019. Retrieved 13 November 2018.
the Order of Prince Branimir with Ribbon was awarded to Mr. Luka Modrić...
- ^ "Milanović odlikovao Vatrene: Srcu odvažnost, u misli domovina". sport.hrt.hr (in Croatian). Croatian Radio Television (HRT).
Further reading
Biography
- Čop, Goran (2014). Luka Modrić: životna i sportska biografija (in Croatian). Profil knjiga. ISBN 9789533133263.
- Azpitarte, Vicente; Puertas, José Manuel (2016). Luka Modric: El hijo de la guerra (in Spanish). Al Poste Ediciones. ISBN 978-84-15726-61-6.
Autobiography
- Modrić, Luka; Matteoni, Robert (2019). Moja igra: autobiografija (in Croatian). Corto Literary. ISBN 978-953-48750-0-1.
- Modrić, Luka; Matteoni, Robert (2020). Luka Modric: Official Autobiography. Bloomsbury Publishing. ISBN 9781472977946.
External links
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/4/4a/Commons-logo.svg/30px-Commons-logo.svg.png)
- Profile at Real Madrid CF
- Luka Modrić – La Liga profile
- Luka Modrić at Soccerway
- Luka Modrić at BDFutbol
- Luka Modrić – UEFA competition record (archive)
- Luka Modrić – FIFA competition record (archived)
- Luka Modrić at Soccerbase
- Luka Modrić at National-Football-Teams.com
- Luka Modrić at the Croatian Football Federation
- Luka Modrić at Premier League
- 1985 births
- Living people
- Footballers from Zadar
- Yugoslav Wars refugees
- Croatian men's footballers
- Men's association football midfielders
- GNK Dinamo Zagreb players
- NK Inter Zaprešić players
- HŠK Zrinjski Mostar players
- Tottenham Hotspur F.C. players
- Real Madrid CF players
- Croatian Football League players
- Premier League of Bosnia and Herzegovina players
- Premier League players
- La Liga players
- UEFA Champions League winning players
- Croatia men's youth international footballers
- Croatia men's under-21 international footballers
- Croatia men's international footballers
- 2006 FIFA World Cup players
- UEFA Euro 2008 players
- UEFA Euro 2012 players
- 2014 FIFA World Cup players
- UEFA Euro 2016 players
- 2018 FIFA World Cup players
- UEFA Euro 2020 players
- 2022 FIFA World Cup players
- UEFA Euro 2024 players
- FIFA Men's Century Club
- Ballon d'Or winners
- The Best FIFA Men's Player winners
- UEFA Men's Player of the Year Award winners
- Croatian expatriate men's footballers
- Expatriate men's footballers in Bosnia and Herzegovina
- Expatriate men's footballers in England
- Expatriate men's footballers in Spain
- Croatian expatriate sportspeople in Bosnia and Herzegovina
- Croatian expatriate sportspeople in England
- Croatian expatriate sportspeople in Spain
- Croatian Roman Catholics
- Recipients of the Charter of the Republic of Croatia