Madrid, Spain – In an emotional farewell, Toni Kroos, one of the most decorated and respected midfielders of all time, has announced his retirement from professional football. The German maestro, known for his exceptional vision, passing, and set-piece prowess, played his final match in the UEFA Euro 2024 quarterfinal between Germany and Spain, marking the end of a remarkable 17-year career.
Early Career and Rise to Stardom
Kroos, born on January 4, 1990, in Greifswald, Germany, began his senior career with Bayern Munich at the tender age of 17. After a brief but impactful loan spell at Bayer Leverkusen, he returned to Bayern Munich, where he established himself as a central figure, winning multiple Bundesliga titles and a UEFA Champions League trophy.
Move to Real Madrid
In 2014, Kroos made a high-profile move to Real Madrid for €25 million. His tenure with Los Blancos was nothing short of legendary. During his time in Madrid, he won 21 trophies, including four La Liga titles and five UEFA Champions League titles, three of which were consecutive from 2016 to 2018. His performances earned him numerous individual accolades, including selections to the FIFA FIFPRO World 11 and UEFA Team of the Year on multiple occasions.
International Success with Germany
Kroos’s international career with Germany was equally impressive. He earned 114 caps, making him one of the most capped players in German history. He was instrumental in Germany’s 2014 FIFA World Cup triumph, where he was the top assist provider and was named to the All-Star Team, Dream Team, and was honored as the German Player of the Year.
Emotional Farewell
In a heartfelt statement, Kroos expressed his gratitude to all those who supported him throughout his career. “So that’s it. But before I take a break and at least try to realize what has happened over the past 17 years, I don’t want to miss the opportunity to say thank you to everyone who accepts me as I am,” he said. He went on to thank his supporters, clubs, coaches, teammates, friends, family, and particularly his children and wife, acknowledging their roles in his success.
Final Season Highlights
Kroos’s final season with Real Madrid saw him making significant contributions, with 33 appearances in La Liga, scoring one goal and providing eight assists. His consistency and leadership on the field were vital for Real Madrid, who secured the La Liga title and the UEFA Champions League trophy in the 2023-2024 season.
Real Madrid’s Star-Studded Squad
Real Madrid’s squad included some of the finest talents in world football, such as Thibaut Courtois, Dani Carvajal, Jude Bellingham, and Kylian Mbappé, who all contributed to the team’s success. The club’s upcoming fixtures include high-profile matches against AC Milan and Barcelona in pre-season friendlies, and the UEFA Super Cup final against Atalanta.
Legacy and Future
Kroos’s retirement marks the end of an era for both Real Madrid and the German national team. His influence on the pitch, characterized by his ability to control the tempo of the game and deliver precise passes, will be remembered by fans and peers alike.
Germany’s squad, featuring stars like Joshua Kimmich, Kai Havertz, and Jamal Musiala, will now look to the future as they prepare for the UEFA Nations League. Despite the loss to Spain in the Euros, the team remains a formidable force on the international stage.
Conclusion
As the football world bids farewell to Toni Kroos, his legacy as one of the greatest midfielders of all time is firmly cemented. His career, filled with numerous accolades and unforgettable moments, will continue to inspire future generations of footballers. “Thank you football! What a beautiful game. And… you’re welcome! Over and out,” Kroos concluded, leaving an indelible mark on the sport he so dearly loves.
