Luka Modrić vs Lionel Messi
Luka Modrić vs Lionel Messi: head-to-head — careers, honours, key numbers and why the rivalry matters.
Why compare Luka Modrić and Lionel Messi?
The rivalry between Luka Modrić and Lionel Messi has been one of the defining narratives in football, with both players often compared for their skills and achievements. Modrić's success in 2018, including the Ballon d'Or, highlighted the competitive nature of their era.
Luka Modrić
Key numbers
- Total appearances692
- Total goals83
- International caps198
- International goals29
- Major trophies won28
Top honours
- Ballon d'Or2018
- Best FIFA Men's Player2018
- UEFA Men's Player of the Year2018
- IFFHS World's Best Playmaker2018
- FIFA World Cup Runner-up2018
VS
Lionel Messi
Key numbers
- Total career goals989
- Total career assists410
- Total international caps199
- Total international goals117
- Total club titles46
Top honours
- FIFA World CupWinner (2022)
- Copa AméricaWinner (2021, 2024)
- Ballon d'Or8 times
- European Golden Shoe6 times
- Most goals in La Liga474 goals