Real Madrid’s German international midfielder, Toni Kroos, announced on Tuesday that he will retire from all forms of football following Euro 2024.
In a heartfelt message shared on Instagram, the 34-year-old Kroos, who was instrumental in Germany’s 2014 World Cup victory, revealed, “My career as an active footballer will end this summer after the European Championship.
” Before bidding farewell to the sport, Kroos has one last opportunity to add to his illustrious career by potentially winning the Champions League with Real Madrid for the fifth time when they face Borussia Dortmund at Wembley on June 1.
Remarkably, Kroos also clinched the Champions League title with Bayern Munich before his move to the Spanish giants.
Kroos joined Real Madrid in 2014 and quickly established a dominant midfield partnership with Luka Modric, a duo that has been pivotal to Real’s success over the past decade.
In a tribute on their official website, Real Madrid honored Kroos, stating he “will go down in Real Madrid history as one of our club and international football’s greatest legends.
” Over his tenure with the club, Kroos has not only secured four Champions League titles but also lifted the La Liga trophy four times, cementing his legacy as one of the sport’s elite midfielders.
Back in July 2021, Kroos initially announced his retirement from international football.
However, in a surprising turn of events, he reversed his decision in February 2023 after discussions with Germany’s head coach, Julian Nagelsmann, who successfully persuaded him to extend his international career until Euro 2024, set to be hosted in Germany.
Reflecting on his decision, Kroos expressed on Instagram, “My ambition was always to finish my career at the peak of my performance level.
I am happy and proud that in my mind I found the right timing for my decision and that I could choose it on my own.
” This determination to conclude his career on a high note underscores Kroos’s commitment to excellence throughout his playing years.
Kroos’s journey in international football is marked by unforgettable moments, particularly his role in Germany’s triumphant 2014 World Cup campaign. His standout performance came during the semi-final match against Brazil, where he scored twice in Germany’s historic 7-1 victory over the host nation.
However, the subsequent World Cup in 2018 brought disappointment as Germany was eliminated in the group stage, a stark contrast to their previous success.
As Toni Kroos prepares to hang up his boots, his career stands as a testament to his exceptional skill, vision, and consistency on the field.
He will be remembered not only as a key figure in Real Madrid’s modern era but also as one of the greatest midfielders of his generation.
Kroos’s impending retirement marks the end of an era for football fans worldwide, who have long admired his poise on the pitch. As he gears up for his final professional engagements, the football community eagerly anticipates celebrating his illustrious career and his lasting impact on the game.
