Former Real Madrid assistant coach Davide Ancelotti has named Luka Modric as his pick to win the 2025 Ballon d’Or.
Modric is set to depart Real Madrid following the conclusion of the FIFA Club World Cup in the United States. The Croatian midfielder previously claimed the prestigious Ballon d’Or award in 2018.
At 39 years old, Modric is expected to join Serie A side AC Milan on a one-year deal this summer.
When asked who he believes should take home the Ballon d’Or this year, Ancelotti responded (via Madrid Xtra on X): “This year? Luka Modric.”
He further added, “What happened with Luka Modrić? I don’t want to talk about the club’s decisions. Luka still has a lot of football to give. Maybe if we had stayed, nothing would have changed. It’s true football is changing, but Luka plays with his head—he can play as long as he wants.”
Despite Ancelotti’s praise, Modric is not widely expected to contend for the award this year, having managed only 13 goal contributions in 60 appearances across all competitions for Real Madrid last season.
The 2025 Ballon d’Or ceremony is scheduled for September, with players such as Lamine Yamal, Raphinha, Kylian Mbappe, Ousmane Dembele, and Mohamed Salah considered among the leading candidates.
