Was Luka Modric Really Better than Ronaldo or Messi in 2018?

The debate surrounding Luka Modric's 2018 Ballon d'Or win is a topic often revisited in the football world. While Modric was outstanding and won the prestigious award, his performance alone was not enough to cement his status as the best player of that year. This article delves into the merits of the argument presented by various football enthusiasts, examining the context of his achievements during the 2018 World Cup and the performances of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.

Modric's World Cup Victory

Modric's performance in the 2018 World Cup cannot be understated. His leadership and prowess on the pitch led Croatia to the final, a feat that no other player was able to achieve with their teams. This victory, alongside the Golden Ball (awarded for the best player) he received, does indeed justify his Ballon d'Or win. However, it is important to consider the broader context of the performances of both Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo during the same period.

While Modric's achievements in the 2018 World Cup were undoubtedly impressive, critics often point out that these achievements do not equate to individual player supremacy over the likes of Messi and Ronaldo. The latter two were playing at the pinnacle of their careers, with Ronaldo leading Real Madrid to the Champions League victory and Messi leading Barcelona to success in the LaLiga.

Criticism and Debate

The 2018 Ballon d'Or was seen by some as a slight to the achievements of players like Ronaldo and Messi. Each of these giants of the sport had their own impressive seasons, with Ronaldo winning the Champions League, while Messi was consistent in his goal-scoring prowess throughout the season. Consequently, many argue that their performances were superior to Modric's, especially when considering their influence on their respective clubs.

One common critique is that Modric's Ballon d'Or win was primarily attributed to leading his team to the 2018 World Cup final, rather than his personal performance. This position is supported by the fact that his team ultimately lost to France, and his teammates did not reach the quarter-finals. Despite leading the team to the final, his individual statistics and overall impact were not as exceptional as those of Messi or Ronaldo.

Statistical Analysis

Statistically, Messi and Ronaldo outperformed Modric during the 2018 season. While Modric was an integral part of Croatia's World Cup victory, there is no denying that Messi and Ronaldo had standout performances for their respective clubs.

For instance, Messi scored the most goals overall and played consistently throughout the season. Ronaldo, though having disappointments in the early stages of the Champions League, secured a successful campaign for Real Madrid, culminating in the Champions League win. Both players were consistently at the top of their games, making their achievements more notable in comparison to Modric's.

Conclusion: The Impact of Club Success

While Luka Modric's World Cup achievements and leadership cannot be denied, his accolade is often criticized for not reflecting his performance in isolation. The Ballon d'Or is more than just individual excellence; it is about impact and influence on the club and national level. Messi and Ronaldo both demonstrated exceptional individual skill and consistency, making their 2018 successes more impressive in a broader context.

The discussion around the 2018 Ballon d'Or winners underscores the complexity of such awards. While Modric's role in the World Cup final was significant, his legacy is also shaped by the unquestionable performances of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.