Not Cristiano Ronaldo: Real Madrid veteran Luka Modric reveals his pick for the greatest player of all time

Luka Modric’s arrival at Real Madrid in the 2012–13 season stirred controversy, as many felt the $50 million fee paid to Tottenham Hotspur was excessive for his talent. Critics questioned his ability to thrive at such a demanding club. However, Modric quickly silenced doubts and evolved into one of the greatest players in Real Madrid’s history. Despite sharing the field with global icons like Cristiano Ronaldo, Luka‘s his pick for the greatest player of all time still surprised fans.

In a short 2024 interview with ESPN, a journalist handed Luka Modric an Argentina jersey from the 1994 World Cup. The jersey featured Diego Maradona’s iconic No. 10. Modric looked touched and responded with heartfelt words. “It’s a special jersey, thank you very much…It’s a joy to have this jersey, Diego (Maradona) is the greatest and you touched me, thank you.”

However, this was not the first time Modric praised Maradona. In 2017, while playing for Real Madrid against Napoli, Diego attended the game. The Croatian star seized the chance to honor him. “I’ve met Maradona and I’ve been with him several times, the last time at The Best gala. He is one of the best players in the history of soccer and we are very happy to see him in Madrid because he is an exceptional player who will see us live and a good person. Thank God he is not playing, we are happy for this.”

Although the Real Madrid midfielder did not call Cristiano Ronaldo the greatest of all time, that did not reflect poorly on their relationship. They played 222 matches together at Real Madrid and recorded 16 joint goal participations. In fact, the Croatian midfielder stated that the Portuguese is the best player in the Spanish club’s history, showcasing his respect to him.

21 Jun 1994: Diego Maradona of Argentina holds his arms wide during the World Cup match against Greece at the Foxboro Stadium in Boston, Massachsetts, USA. Argentina won the match 4-0.

When Luka announced he would not renew his contract with the club, Ronaldo showed his support. On Instagram, he commented Modric post with a touching farewell. “Thanks for everything, Luka It was an honor to share so many moments with you at the club. Wishing you all the best in what’s to come!“

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How will Luka Modric’s departure impact Real Madrid’s plans for the 2025-26 season?

Real Madrid’s recent golden era featured a commanding midfield led by Casemiro, Toni Kroos, and Luka Modric. That trio defined the team’s identity for years. Now, with the Croatian star leaving the club at the end of the season, this legendary partnership becomes part of the history. As a result, the club will reportedly look for a new midfielder.

This season, Real Madrid clearly missed Toni Kroos. He was the team’s best organizer and dictated the rhythm of play. Moreover, Luka saw his influence decline significantly due to physical concerns. Because of that, the midfield looked fragile and lacked the dominance seen in past years. The absence of both leaders left the team struggling to impose itself in key matches.

Now, the last midfielder capable of dictating play is set to leave. Meanwhile, Jude Bellingham, Federico Valverde, and Eduardo Camavinga offer a box-to-box profile. Their style is dynamic but far from the traits of a true organizing midfielder.

As a result, incoming manager Xabi Alonso may target a new midfield capable of restoring balance, imposing control, and guiding a team that lacked throughout the 2024–25 season.