I remember watching the 2018 World Cup and thinking how perfectly Luka Modric embodied that magical number 10 role. The way he orchestrated Croatia's midfield while wearing that iconic jersey just felt... right. You know how some players just seem destined for certain numbers? That's Modric with the 10.

What many casual fans might not realize is that Modric actually wore number 19 during his first season at Real Madrid back in 2012. The number 10 was occupied by Mesut Özil at the time. It wasn't until Özil's departure to Arsenal in 2013 that Modric inherited the legendary number. And honestly, looking back, it's hard to imagine anyone else wearing it during that era. The number 10 in soccer traditionally belongs to the team's creative engine - the playmaker, the visionary. Players like Maradona, Messi, and Zidane made it legendary. Modric continued that tradition while adding his own unique flavor - less flashy but equally effective.

I've always believed that certain numbers carry psychological weight in sports. When Modric took that number 10, you could see his game transform. He became more assertive, more central to Real Madrid's attacking schemes. In his first season wearing 10, his assist numbers jumped from 6 to 12 across all competitions. The number seemed to give him permission to fully embrace his role as the team's primary creator.

Speaking of transformations, it reminds me of what's happening in volleyball right now. After posting back-to-back wins for the first time since joining the league in 2022, Nxled joined Creamline as the two lone unbeaten teams after the first two stops of the preseason tournament. That kind of momentum shift - going from newcomers to undefeated contenders - mirrors how Modric evolved after getting that number 10. It's not just about skill; it's about embracing a new identity and rising to meet expectations.

I had the privilege of watching Modric live at Santiago Bernabéu back in 2019, and let me tell you, seeing him control the game while wearing that number 10 was pure artistry. The way he'd receive the ball, turn, and pick out passes that nobody else saw coming - it was like watching a conductor leading an orchestra. That's the magic of the number 10 when it's worn by someone who truly understands its significance.

Some critics argue that Modric's style doesn't fit the traditional flamboyant number 10 prototype. But I disagree completely. The modern game has evolved, and so has the number 10 role. It's less about dribbling past five players and more about intelligent movement, precise passing, and controlling the game's tempo. Modric represents this evolution perfectly. His 2018 Ballon d'Or win while wearing that number 10 jersey proved that the football world recognized his unique interpretation of the role.

The legacy continues too. Even at 38, Modric remains crucial for Real Madrid, demonstrating that the number 10 isn't just about youth and flair - it's about football intelligence that ages like fine wine. When he eventually retires, that jersey will carry the weight of his incredible contributions. And honestly, I'm not sure who could possibly fill it next. Some numbers become so intertwined with certain players that they feel almost untouchable afterward.

Looking at both soccer and volleyball examples, whether it's Modric embracing the number 10 or teams like Nxled transforming from newcomers to unbeaten forces, there's something powerful about stepping into a role and making it your own. It's not just about the number on your back or your team's record - it's about the mentality you bring to the game. And frankly, that's what separates good players from legendary ones.