Luka Modric, the world's best footballer, spoke of his relationship with the two stars who had won individual awards for a decade, Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi, after breaking the common rule and ousting them from the throne.
Real Madrid midfielder Modric has said he has maintained a special relationship with his former colleague Ronaldo, despite strong competition for individual awards recently, denying rumors of a break in their relationship.
"We have spent six wonderful years together in Madrid, where mutual friendship and mutual respect have arisen," he told France Football magazine.
The captain of Croatia deserved the FIFA World Player of the Year award after an impressive season with the Champions League and the World Cup.
The 33-year-old is the most likely candidate to win the Golden Ball, among 30 players announced recently by France Football, where the winner will be unveiled on Dec. 3.
"Now that Ronaldo is gone, we have kept in touch, we are sending messages to each other, and although some people are trying to say the opposite is true, I can confirm that we still have good relations."
Asked if he wanted to play alongside Barcelona's Messi, Modric immediately replied: "No."
Messi is one of the best players in history, but I will never play with him. "
Messi and Modric will face the Spanish league between Barcelona and Real Madrid on October 28.
