Toni Kroos was awarded a notable title at Real Madrid that Cristiano Ronaldo never attained.
Toni Kroos, the renowned German midfielder, has earned a unique distinction at Real Madrid that even Cristiano Ronaldo did not achieve. Recently, Kroos announced that he would retire from professional football after the Euro 2024 tournament this summer. His illustrious club career at Real Madrid will come to a close following the Champions League final against Borussia Dortmund on June 1st.
At 34, Kroos is set to retire from football entirely after Germany’s campaign in the Euro 2024. Since joining Real Madrid in the summer of 2014, Kroos has built an impressive career, winning nearly every significant honor in the sport. His achievements include league titles in both Germany and Spain, and he has claimed the Champions League title four times, showcasing his dominance in European football.
Kroos’s influence is not limited to club football; he also played a crucial role in Germany’s 2014 World Cup victory. As he looks to guide his national team to European success this summer, his legacy in international football remains significant.
Kroos’s contributions to Real Madrid have been substantial. Club president Florentino Perez has praised him as the “transfer of the century,” a title that even surpasses Ronaldo’s celebrated tenure after moving from Manchester United. According to Kroos’s agent, Volke Struth, Perez described Kroos as “an unbelievably pleasant person with a great life story,” highlighting his grounded yet entrepreneurial nature. Perez further elaborated on why Kroos is considered Real Madrid’s most valuable transfer in history.
Regarding Kroos’s decision to retire, Perez commented, “Toni Kroos is one of the greatest players in the history of Real Madrid, and this club is and always will be his home.” In an emotional statement on Instagram, Kroos reflected on his decision to retire from football.
“July 17th, 2014 – the day of my presentation at Real Madrid, the day that changed my life,” he 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!
“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!'”