Luka Modrić vs Franz Beckenbauer
Croatia against Germany. The almanac states its case, the crowd votes, you decide.
Luka Modrić
Croatia · 2010s · CM
- Almanac rating
- 96
- Rank in Croatia
- #1 of 33
- Caps
- 201 · 29 goals
- Clubs
- GNK Dinamo Zagreb, Tottenham Hotspur, Real Madrid Club de Fútbol
- Honours
- Ballon d'Or 2018 · FIFA World Player of the Year 2018 · national Player of the Year 2018
The peerless puppet master who defied expectations to win the 2018 Ballon d’Or, orchestrating Real Madrid's dynasty and leading Croatia to global prominence. Career record: 201 caps and 29 goals for Croatia; club career at GNK Dinamo Zagreb, Tottenham Hotspur, Real Madrid Club de Fútbol; honours include Ballon d'Or 2018, FIFA World Player of the Year 2018, national Player of the Year 2018.
Franz Beckenbauer
Germany · 1970s · CB
- Almanac rating
- 98
- Rank in Germany
- #1 of 33
- Caps
- 103 · 14 goals
- Clubs
- FC Bayern Munich, New York Cosmos, Hamburger SV
- Honours
- Ballon d'Or · 4× national Player of the Year (1966–1976) · 7× Hall of Fame (1976–2018)
The iconic "Der Kaiser," Beckenbauer redefined the libero role, winning the 1974 World Cup as captain and two Ballon d'Or awards for his elegant play. Career record: 103 caps and 14 goals for Germany; club career at FC Bayern Munich, New York Cosmos, Hamburger SV; honours include Ballon d'Or, 4× national Player of the Year (1966–1976), 7× Hall of Fame (1976–2018).
The verdict
The almanac puts Franz Beckenbauer ahead by 2 rating points, 98 against 96.
Fans have not settled this one yet. Cast the first vote in the duels.