Ballon d’Or 2018: Cristiano Ronaldo finished behind Luka Modric
“I do not know if that helped him, but the quality I do not know where he got it from, but there he is."
Modric, 33, has been a standout performer for Real in recent years.
However, his win is controversial.
Juventus superstar Cristiano Ronaldo finished in second.
Ballon d’Or 2018: Luka Modric looks set to secure glory (Image: GETTY)
Atletico Madrid forward Antoine Griezmann made up the top three.
Lionel Messi was placed in fifth spot.
Barcelona boss Ernesto Valverde admited over the weekend that he was shocked Messi had been overlooked.
"It surprises me as much as anyone else," he said.
Invalid email
We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our Privacy Policy
Ballon d’Or 2018: Cristiano Ronaldo finished behind Luka Modric (Image: GETTY)
"Messi's been named the best player in the Champions League this season after the first, second and fifth round of fixtures - and he didn't play in the third and fourth games because he was injured.
“That's not us saying that, either, it's [an award] picked by UEFA.
“It's a little strange he is not in the running.
"To those that are among the final three, congratulations.
Ballon d’Or 2018: Santiago Solari hailed Luka Modric (Image: GETTY)
"Everyone is free to think what they want, but it is strange, yes [that Messi is not shortlisted]."
Ronaldo - who has scored over 500 career goals - made no secret of his desire to win the Ballon d’Or again.
"I said many times, winning a sixth Ballon d'Or is not an obsession," the Portuguese legend told France Football.
"And I do not ask the question in these terms. I already know, in my heart, that I am one of the best players in history.”