Real Madrid and Germany midfielder Toni Kroos has announced that he will retire from professional football following Euro 2024.
The 34-year-old has enjoyed a highly successful career with Real Madrid since his transfer from Bayern Munich in July 2014, securing four La Liga titles and four Champions League trophies. Kroos was also instrumental in Germany’s 2014 World Cup victory.
Having retired from international football in July 2021, Kroos made a surprising return in February 2024 after discussions with Germany’s coach Julian Nagelsmann.
On his Instagram account, Kroos expressed his satisfaction with his decision, stating, “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.”
Kroos debuted in the Bundesliga for Bayern Munich at just 17 years old in September 2007, winning his first of three German league titles that season.
Although he was part of Bayern’s squad that clinched the Champions League in 2013, he did not feature in the final match.
Reflecting on his move to Real Madrid, Kroos remarked that the day he signed “changed his life as a footballer but especially as a person,” and he remains focused on helping Los Blancos secure their 15th European Cup.
Real Madrid will face Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League final at Wembley on June 1.
Kroos has always maintained that Real Madrid would be his last club, emphasizing, “After 10 years, at the end of the season, this chapter comes to an end. I will never forget this successful time.”
Real Madrid president Florentino Perez praised Kroos, calling him “one of the great players in the history of Real Madrid” and affirming that the club will always be his home.
As Germany prepares for Euro 2024, they will face Scotland in the opening game on June 14 at Munich’s Allianz Arena.
Kroos’s retirement marks the end of an era for a player known for his exceptional skill, vision, and consistency on the pitch. His departure from professional football will leave a significant void both at Real Madrid and in the German national team.
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