That is the opinion of Barcelona’s Ivan Rakitic, who called his compatriot the Spanish top flight’s “big gun” after Ronaldo’s £88million move to Juventus back in July and strangely snubbed club team-mate Lionel Messi.
Modric was recently named UEFA’s Men’s Player of the Year following a stellar year for both Real Madrid and Croatia.
The 32-year-old was crucial in helping Los Blancos to a third straight Champions League success, beating Liverpool in the final in Kiev in May.
And Modric’s form at the World Cup, where he and his Croatia improbably reached the final only to lose to France, saw him earn the tournament’s Golden Ball award having been a central figure for Zlatko Dalic’s team.
The former Tottenham ace’s performances have since seen him named in the final three for the Best FIFA Men’s Player alongside former team-mate Ronaldo and Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah, while he is also expected to be in the running for the separate Ballon d’Or award.
And Rakitic – though he plays for Real’s arch rivals Barca – thinks Modric has fully earned such recognition and has been the best player in the world this calendar year.
“Luka is now La Liga’s big gun, he is the best player in the world this year and we Croats are very proud of him,” Rakitic told Croatian newspaper Novi list.
“I wish him that last prize that is left for him to win [the Ballon d’Or] because he absolutely deserves it.
“Those that are jealous of Luka, let them die in their jealousy! I am proud of him and as happy as if I was winning those awards!
“We’ve been together in national team for 11 years, went through a lot, I love him as my brother.
“I am happy he decided to stay in national team, I don’t know what my decision would have been if he retired.”
Rakitic also revealed that he had offers to leave Barcelona in the summer with Paris Saint-Germain having been one of the clubs reportedly interested.
He added: ”I read rumours about my [potential] transfer from Barcelona, there were offers, some big clubs wanted me.
“But, honestly, I spoke to my wife and we made a conclusion I am happy here and proud to be part of this big club.
“I’ve been part of that nice story with Barcelona for some time and it is not time to leave yet. Well, who could find it easy to leave Barcelona?”