Modric is the best player in the world ―Ivan Rakitic

Barcelona midfielder Ivan Rakitic has claimed that his compatriot Luka Modric is now the best player in the world.

Rakitic and Modric were both part of the Croatia team that reached the World Cup final and the latter also helped Real Madrid to win the Champions League yet again.

Modric’s excellent performances have seen him shortlisted for The Best FIFA Men’s Player award, along with Cristiano Ronaldo and Mohamed Salah.

Rakitic is in no doubt that Modric should be the recipient of the award.

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Rakitic told Novi list (via goal): ‘Luka is now La Liga’s big gun, he is the best player in the world this year and we Croats are very proud of him.

‘I wish him that last prize that is left for him to win [the Ballon d’Or] because he absolutely deserves it.’

There have been complaints in some quarters that Barcelona star Lionel Messi should have been among the nominees for the award, but Rakitic suggested that such claims are rooted in jealousy.

Rakitic said: ‘Those that are jealous of Luka, let them die in their jealousy! I am proud of him and as happy as if I was winning those awards!

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‘We’ve been together in national team for 11 years, went through a lot, I love him as my brother. I am happy he decided to stay in national team, I don’t know what my decision would have been if he retired.’

Both Rakitic and Modric are in the Croatia squad for the friendly against Portugal and the UEFA Nations League clash with Spain.

A consistent performer, Modric’s quality of playing slick passes with regularity certainly marks him out as one of the standout players in world football.

Modric was recently named the UEFA player of the year, and winning The Best FIFA Men’s Player award would cap off an excellent year for him.