Toni Kroos, the illustrious German midfielder, has secured a remarkable accolade at Real Madrid that even the legendary Cristiano Ronaldo did not achieve. Kroos, who recently announced his decision to retire from professional football following the Euro 2024 tournament this summer, will bring his distinguished club career at Real Madrid to a close after the Champions League final against Borussia Dortmund on June 1st. This announcement marks the end of an era for a player who has left an indelible mark on the club and the sport.
At the age of 34, Kroos has decided to hang up his boots after Germany’s campaign in the Euro 2024, marking the culmination of a career that has seen him reach the pinnacle of success in football. Since his arrival at Real Madrid in the summer of 2014, Kroos has amassed an array of prestigious titles, including league championships in both Germany and Spain, and has triumphed in the Champions League four times. His dominance in European football is undeniable, and his contributions have been instrumental in Real Madrid’s sustained success over the past decade.
Kroos’s impact extends beyond club football. He was a vital cog in Germany’s 2014 World Cup-winning team, demonstrating his ability to perform on the biggest stages and his importance to his national side. As he prepares to lead Germany in the upcoming European Championship, his legacy in international football is firmly established, and he hopes to add one final triumph to his storied career.
Within the walls of Real Madrid, Kroos’s contributions have been nothing short of monumental. Club president Florentino Perez has often lauded Kroos as the “transfer of the century,” a commendation that places him above even Ronaldo’s celebrated tenure after his move from Manchester United. Volke Struth, Kroos’s agent, has relayed Perez’s sentiments, describing Kroos as “an unbelievably pleasant person with a great life story,” underscoring his grounded yet ambitious nature. Perez further elaborated on why Kroos is considered the most valuable transfer in the club’s history, highlighting his immense contribution to Real Madrid’s success.
Reflecting on Kroos’s impending retirement, Perez remarked, “Toni Kroos is one of the greatest players in the history of Real Madrid, and this club is and always will be his home.” Kroos himself shared an emotional message on Instagram, contemplating his journey and the decision to retire from football.
“July 17th, 2014 – the day of my presentation at Real Madrid, the day that changed my life,” Kroos began. “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, at the end of the season, this chapter comes to an end. I will never forget that incredibly successful time!”
He continued, “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. I am happy and proud that I found the right timing for my decision and that I could make it on my own. My ambition has always been to finish my career at the peak of my performance level.
“From now on, there is only one leading thought: ‘a por la 15!!! HALA MADRID Y NADA MAS!’”
Kroos’s decision to retire on his own terms, at a time when he is still performing at an elite level, reflects his meticulous approach to his career and his desire to leave the sport at the peak of his powers. His farewell to the Madridistas, full of gratitude and affection, encapsulates his deep connection to the club and its fans. As he prepares for his final matches, both in club and international football, Kroos’s legacy as one of the greats of the modern game is assured, and his impact on Real Madrid and Germany will be remembered for generations to come.