Luka Modrić (Croatian pronunciation: born 9 September 1985) is a Croatian professional footballer who plays as a central midfielder for Serie A club AC Milan and captains the Croatia national team. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest midfielders of all time, and as the greatest Croatian player ever.

Career Path

• Early Life & Beginnings: Luka Modrić was born on 9 September 1985 in Zadar, Croatia.

• Early Clubs: He began his professional career with Dinamo Zagreb, and before becoming a regular there he had loan spells at Zrinjski Mostar (in Bosnia-Herzegovina) and Inter Zaprešić (back in Croatia).

• Breakthrough & Move Abroad: After playing for Dinamo, in 2008 he moved to Tottenham Hotspur in the English Premier League.

• Legendary Era at Real Madrid: In 2012 Modrić joined Real Madrid, where over 13 seasons he became one of the most decorated players in the club’s history.

• Move to AC Milan: In July 2025 — after leaving Real Madrid — Modrić signed with AC Milan, on a one‑year contract (with an option for an extension).

• National Team: On the international stage, he has been a key figure for Croatia national football team since his senior debut in 2006.

Playing Style

• Modrić is known for being an exceptionally complete central midfielder — combining vision, passing, creativity, tactical intelligence, stamina, and work‑rate.

• He can play in multiple midfield roles: central midfield, attacking midfield, or deeper‑lying playmaker depending on team needs.

• What sets him apart is consistency and longevity — being able to perform at very high level over many seasons at top clubs and in big tournaments.

• On top of technical ability, he brings leadership, game intelligence, and professionalism, important both for club and national team — attributes that have helped him stay relevant even as he ages.

Achievements & Recognition

• At Real Madrid, over 13 seasons he won many major trophies, including multiple league titles, domestic cups, and European titles.

• Individually, he has received top honors: he won the Ballon d’Or in 2018, breaking a long period dominated by two other players.

• He is widely regarded as one of the greatest midfielders of all time — often mentioned among the best ever in his position — and many consider him the greatest Croatian player ever.

• On national duty, he has been a stalwart for Croatia for many years, captaining the side and playing in multiple World Cups and European Championships.