Samuel Oladipupo Essoodee
If there is any lesson any player and any mortal for that matter has to learn from the new king of football, Lucas Modric, it could just be a combination of self belief, strength, concentration and determination.
Of course, the Croatian and Real Madrid star, who dethroned all-time giants Ronaldo and Messi as winner of the Ballon d’Or on Monday, also combines humility with talent, although he may not be as exceptionally gifted as a Messi.
The traits, many followers of his exploits with Real Madrid and the Croatian team must have observed, culminated in the current successes that nearly everyone is saying he deserves.
Lucas Modric’s performance at the World Cup indeed entrenched his love in the hearts of millions, leading Croatia to the final as well as winning his third consecutive Champions League, with a series of quality midfield display.
A man of history and destiny, he is the first Croatian as well as the first Eastern European to win the Balon D’or.
Interestingly, Messi had, a few months ago, named him as among the new crop of soccer stars who are rearing to take over from him and Ronaldo.
