I think Modric’s story is honestly wild and kinda inspiring if you think about it. The guy grew up literally as a refugee during the Croatian War of Independence, living in hotels with his family after their house was burned down. Even after his granddad was killed and life was just tough, Modric was always kicking a ball around in hotel parking lots.

He got turned down by one of the top clubs, Hajduk Split, for being too small and scrawny (which just blows my mind, considering how he turned out). But he didn’t quit. He worked his way up from small clubs like Zrinjski Mostar—where he was actually named Player of the Year at 18—to finally getting his chance at Dinamo Zagreb. From there, Modric just kept improving, and next thing you know he’s smashing it at Tottenham, then bossing it at Real Madrid for more than a decade.

I think what sets him apart is just his crazy work ethic and ability to see the game differently. He always plays with his head up, finds insane passes, and never gives up. That’s why so many people say he’s one of the best midfielders ever.