#4 One Name - Luka Modric
A third UCL in three seasons for this midfield genius. Luka Modric dominated the midfield for Real Madrid this season, putting on glorious performances. With Lionel Messi having a disappointing UCL run, and Ronaldo having left Real Madrid, the stage is set for Luka Modric to make the Ballon d’Or his own.
Club achievements alone aren't the reason Luka may win this. After all, playing for Real Madrid means winning the UCL is an expectation, not an achievement.
What truly has been special is his world cup campaign. Forming a solid partnership with Barcelona’s Ivan Rakitic, he had run over the midfield of every team he has faced. His performance against Argentina were glimpses of the Magic he can produce. If the Croatians pull off a huge upset and defeat the mighty Frenchmen, not many people would be willing to bet against Modric from winning the Ballon d’Or.
Maybe the time is just right. Just right for the dominance of Leo and Ron to end. If Luka is the man to do that, the world shouldn’t mind much.