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Toni Kroos, a cornerstone of both Real Madrid and German football, has announced his retirement from professional football following Germany’s Euro 2024 campaign. This marks the end of an illustrious career spanning nearly two decades, during which he has become one of the most decorated and respected midfielders in the sport.
Kroos to Retire at 34
At 34, Kroos will step away from the pitch after the European Championship, set to be hosted in Germany. This decision, which has taken fans and pundits by surprise, underscores his desire to conclude his career on a high note, surrounded by home support.
What Happened
Speculation about Kroos’ future had been circulating for months. Initially, it seemed likely that he would extend his contract with Real Madrid for the 2024-25 season. Reports suggested that negotiations were in advanced stages. However, Kroos has now decided to retire, emphasizing the importance of timing and his wish to leave the game while still performing at an elite level.
Kroos’ Statement – Toni Kroos
Kroos announced his decision via an emotional post on Instagram, providing a personal reflection on his journey with Real Madrid. He wrote:
“July 17th, 2014 – the day of my presentation at Real Madrid, the day that changed my life. My life as a footballer – but especially as a person. It was the start of a new chapter at the biggest club in the world. After 10 years, this chapter comes to an end. I will never forget that incredibly successful time! I would particularly like to thank everyone who welcomed me with an open heart and trusted me.
But especially I would like to thank you, dear Madridistas, for your affection and your love from the first day until the last one. At the same time, this decision means that my career as an active footballer will end this summer after the Euro championship. As I have always said: Real Madrid is and will be my last club. I am happy and proud that I found the right timing for my decision and that I could choose it by myself. My ambition was always to finish my career at the peak of my performance level. From now on, there is only one leading thought: go for 15!!! HALA MADRID AND NOTHING MORE!”
The Bigger Picture – Toni Kroos Retirement
Kroos’ retirement will mark the end of a significant era for Real Madrid. Since joining from Bayern Munich in 2014, Kroos has been pivotal in the club’s success. He has won 21 major trophies with Real Madrid, including four Champions League titles, four La Liga titles, three Supercopa de España titles, four FIFA Club World Cups, and three UEFA Super Cups. His tenure will conclude with what promises to be a thrilling Champions League final against Borussia Dortmund on June 1.
Kroos’ Legacy
Kroos will be remembered as one of the greatest midfielders in Real Madrid’s storied history. His technical prowess, vision, and precise passing have made him an integral part of the team’s midfield. Over his 463 appearances for Real Madrid, Kroos has scored 28 goals and provided 98 assists. His role in the team’s success cannot be overstated, particularly his contributions in high-stakes matches.
On the international stage, Kroos has been equally influential. He was a key player in Germany’s 2014 World Cup-winning team, providing crucial assists and playing a central role in their midfield. He has represented Germany in three World Cups and multiple European Championships, consistently delivering top performances.
Real Madrid and Germany’s Reactions
Real Madrid released a statement expressing their profound gratitude to Kroos, celebrating his immense contributions to the club’s success. Club president Florentino Pérez said, “Toni Kroos is one of the great players in the history of Real Madrid and this club will always be his home.” Teammates and fans have echoed these sentiments, acknowledging Kroos’ dedication, professionalism, and impact on the team.
The announcement also resonated deeply within the German national team. Kroos had initially retired from international football in 2021 after Germany’s exit from the European Championship but returned to support the team in their bid for Euro 2024 success. His experience and leadership will be crucial as Germany aims for a strong performance in the tournament.
A Storied Career
Kroos began his professional career at Bayern Munich, making his debut in 2007 at the age of 17. He quickly established himself as one of the most promising talents in German football. During his time at Bayern, he won multiple Bundesliga titles and was part of the team that secured the Champions League title in 2013.
In 2014, Kroos made a high-profile move to Real Madrid, where he became a key figure in one of the most successful periods in the club’s history. Alongside Luka Modric and Casemiro, Kroos formed a formidable midfield trio that dominated European football. His tactical intelligence, ability to control the tempo of the game, and exceptional passing accuracy have been hallmarks of his playing style.
Reflecting on his decision in a special episode of his podcast “Einfach mal Luppen,” Kroos shared his thought process: “I’ve been thinking about it for months, and with its pros and cons, it’s what I want… I want you to remember that I went out at my best. I promised that when I left Madrid, I’d leave football.”
Conclusion
Toni Kroos’ retirement from professional football after Euro 2024 will mark the end of a remarkable career filled with success and accolades. His contributions to Real Madrid and the German national team have cemented his legacy as one of the game’s greats. As he prepares for his final matches, fans around the world will celebrate his achievements and the indelible impact he has made on the sport.
Toni Kroos (born January 4, 1990) is a retired German professional footballer who played as a midfielder for La Liga club Real Madrid and the Germany national team. Recognized as one of the greatest midfielders of all time, Kroos is celebrated for his vision, passing accuracy, creativity, crossing, and set-piece prowess. Primarily a central midfielder, he has also excelled as a deep-lying playmaker during his career.
Club Career:
Kroos began his senior career with Bayern Munich, debuting at 17 in 2007. Initially used sparingly, he spent 18 months on loan at Bayer Leverkusen, where he became a key player. Returning to Bayern in 2010, he helped the team secure two consecutive league titles (three in total), a UEFA Champions League title, and two DFB-Pokal titles. He was also named in the Bundesliga Team of the Season three times. In 2014, Kroos transferred to Real Madrid for €25 million.
At Real Madrid, Kroos won 21 trophies, including four La Liga titles and four UEFA Champions League titles, three of which were consecutive from 2016 to 2018. He was named in the competition’s Team of the Season each of those years. Additionally, he has been selected for the FIFPro World11 and UEFA Team of the Year three times, and the La Liga Team of the Season twice. In 2014, he was honored as the IFFHS World’s Best Playmaker and in 2018, he was named German Footballer of the Year.
international Career:
Kroos achieved early success on the international stage, winning the Golden Player and top goalscorer at the 2006 UEFA European Under-17 Championship, and the Golden Ball at the 2007 FIFA U-17 World Cup. He made his senior debut for Germany in 2010 at age 20, participating in six major tournaments. Kroos was instrumental in Germany’s 2014 FIFA World Cup victory, leading in assists and earning spots in the All-Star Team, Dream Team, and being named German Player of the Year. At UEFA Euro 2016, he was included in the Team of the Tournament. After Germany’s elimination from UEFA Euro 2020, Kroos announced his retirement from international football but made a surprise return in 2024 to participate in Euro 2024.