Luka Modric in his childhood was once rejected by Hajduk Split football club for being too slight and wak, the same Modric will now lead Croatia into the World Cup 2018 final against France on Sunday. At 1.72 metres (5ft 8in) and 66kg (146 lbs), the Croatia playmaker can cut a diminutive figure on the pitch but he has few rivals when it comes to skill, game-management and stamina.
On Sunday, the winner of four Champions League titles with Real Madrid will play the biggest match of his life against France and size will be the last thing on his mind. “I’ve always ignored such talk,” he told reporters on the eve of his nation’s first World Cup final.
“I have never doubted myself even if others did, I always believed I could get to where I am today and thank God this came true. “You don’t have to be a giant to play football, I’m happy with where I am. I am happy with where I am and I never cared what anyone else said, it only further motivated me.”