Modric: “I’m happy that a normal person can win the Ballon D’Or”

Real Madrid midfielder Luka Modric conquered France Football’s Ballon D’Or last night and talked to the French magazine about his career and what this award means to him.

“I am happy that someone normal is able to win the Ballon d’Or. There’s a saying that the best things in life don’t come easily and I believe that. My life has been based on fighting and on achieving objectives through hard work. It hasn’t been easy, but I have won it,” said Modric.

“History will say that a Croatian player, representing his small country, won the Ballon d’Or after Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi, who are at another level. They are the best in the history of this sport and to come after them is incredible, although I don’t think for one second that they are done,” added the midfielder.

“When Zidane arrived to become Real Madrid coach in January of 2016, he called me to his office one day after training and explained what he saw in me as a player and what he expected of me. He told me I was an important player for him. Above all, he told me that he saw me as a player who could win the Ballon d’Or. When someone like Zidane, with his personality and background, says this then it boosts your confidence. These words from Zidane helped me to go further in my play, even if I didn’t dare to believe it,” added Modric.

The Croatian midfielder finally got the credit he deserved all along after some incredible years being Real Madrid’s most crucial midfielder.