The only person to win the Ballon d’Or outside of Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi in the past 14 years hails from Croatia. The veteran midfielder gets a last shot at the prestigious trophy following an incredible run to the Finals in 2018. With that, Nitrobetting shares this 2022 FIFA World Cup Player Spotlight: Luka Modric.

2022 FIFA World Cup Player Spotlight: Luka Modric

HALA MADRID! #ElDerbi pic.twitter.com/A0zUW0JjFS

— Luka Modrić (@lukamodric10) September 18, 2022

READ MORE: Kasper Schmeichel 2022 FIFA World Cup Preview

In a class of his own

The Zadar-born player is likely to follow the footsteps of the greats. The 2018 FIFA World Cup Golden Ball winner is recognized for his capability to lead his team. Modric captains his nation in Qatar, and knowing that he comes into the tournament brings the team a sigh of relief. His international presence is coming to an end, but with much of the backbone of Croatia banking on the seasoned midfielder, they hope that their side delivers one last time.

A fundamental module for Croatia’s success

Modric will be 37 by November and Croatia trails Belgium as +275 favorites to win Group F. Despite his age, the Croatian continues to play at a high level, putting in significant contributions with his club, Real Madrid. The five-foot-eight midfielder is a creative playmaker and can control the tempo of the match by holding onto the ball from the middle of the pitch. His playing style has been widely recognized by fellow soccer stars and managers thanks to his swift passing and ability to shoot from range. He thrives in the style of the trivela technique with his composure and ability to avoid tackles under pressure.

What makes Modric a crucial Piece for Croatia is his leadership. He’s an integral part of Real Madrid’s success in the past decade and an important element of Zlatko Dalić’s starting lineup. The veteran midfielder is noted for his tactical intelligence on both ends of the pitch. Ultimately, his accomplished work and experience should yield positive results for the European side in November.

International and club-level merit

Luka Modric already recorded two goals and an assist for Madrid this season. He did all of this in just nine appearances. The Croatian had a busy 2021-22 season as well. He featured in 45 games and scored three goals in the process. More than that, as a playmaker, he dished out 12 assists across four competitions. His consistency impresses everyone, which is why Nitrobetting shares an exclusive 2022 FIFA World Cup Player Spotlight: Luka Modric.

He is the most experienced player in Croatia’s lineup recording 152 caps for the nation and recording 22 goals and 24 assists across six different competitions. These numbers might not rival that of Messi and Ronaldo, but his presence on the field alone is a testament to the energy he brings to the team.

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