Amid debates over whether Luka Modric deserved to win the Ballon d’Or, Real Madrid coach Santiago Solari insisted the Croatian was worthy of the award after a tremendous year with both club and country.  

The 33-year-old was a vital cog in Croatia’s dream run in the World Cup, which ended in the final defeat to France. He also helped Los Blancos march on to their third straight Champions League trophy.  

“It’s Modric’s year. The focus has to be on him. He’s had a wonderful year and he’s given everything to Real Madrid and his national team,” said Solari.   

“It comes at a time of maturity in his career. It seems to me that at that age it’s more beautiful because he can truly value it. We’re all very happy with his prize.”  

The Croatian ended the duopoly of Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi which had seen the pair dominate the ceremony in the last decade, winning five trophies each.