Luka Modrić reflected on the greatness of Lionel Messi and the nearly impossible standards he has set in football. According to the Croatian legend, what Messi accomplished throughout his career is something that goes beyond normal human capacity. He described Messi’s achievements as “difficult numbers” that almost no other player can replicate, even though football has always been filled with incredible talents. In Modrić’s eyes, even during their era, when the sport was already highly competitive and brimming with stars, Messi managed to rise above everyone else and make history.
He went further to acknowledge that football has continued to evolve with modern tactics, training methods, and technology, but Messi’s consistency and dominance still feel extraordinary—almost robotic. Modrić joked that while in the future some players might be able to match one of Messi’s individual records, it would be nearly impossible for a single player to replicate all that he has done. He emphasized that Messi often carried the weight of entire teams on his shoulders, doing things that usually require a squad of superstars working together.
Modrić also expressed his personal gratitude and disbelief at his own Ballon d’Or triumph. Winning the prestigious award during the Messi–Cristiano Ronaldo era felt surreal to him. He admitted that everyone expected Messi and Ronaldo to dominate those awards, so to have his name written in history alongside them is something he considers a true miracle. It was not just a victory for him personally, but also a proud moment for Croatia and a reminder that hard work and determination can shine through even in the toughest era of competition.
Finally, the Real Madrid midfielder acknowledged the everlasting legacy Messi has left in the sport. He said that for his own career, sharing the stage with Messi—and even managing to win the Ballon d’Or once—will forever remain one of the highlights of his life. He knows that Messi and Ronaldo’s rivalry defined an entire generation of football, and being able to compete with them at the highest level is something he will always cherish. For Modrić, Messi’s influence will never fade, and his impact on football will remain immortal.
