Football News: Toni Kroos to Retire After Euro 2024 Swansong
Germany legend Toni Kroos has announced his plans to retire from football after the upcoming Euro 2024 tournament. The legendary midfielder will hope to end his illustrious career on a high note, having already achieved remarkable success at both the club and international levels.
Kroos, who is currently 34 years old, has won a staggering six Champions League titles with Real Madrid since joining the club in 2014 from Bayern Munich. The 2014 World Cup winner has also tasted domestic glory, securing four LaLiga titles with the Spanish giants.
The midfielder originally retired from international duty in July 2021 following Germany’s 2-0 defeat to England at Euro 2020. However, he was convinced to reverse his decision in February 2023 after talks with head coach Julian Nagelsmann. Kroos made his first appearance for Die Mannschaft in over 1,000 days during their 2-0 win over France in March.
Nagelsmann revealed the details of those talks, explaining that Kroos wanted to be sure the national team had the potential to win something before he committed to a return. The German boss assured Kroos of his plans, and the midfielder responded: “Yes, I will be part of it. Let’s rock!”
Now, Kroos has confirmed that Euro 2024, which will be held in his homeland, will be his final dance on the international stage. The 108-cap veteran has shocked the football world with his decision, considering his continued excellence on the pitch. This season, Kroos has been a key figure for Real Madrid, with his pinpoint corner setting up the opening goal in the 2-0 Champions League final victory over Borussia Dortmund.
Kroos, who is four years younger than his long-serving Madrid teammate Luka Modric, has decided to leave on a high note. He has been offered a new contract at the Santiago Bernabeu but felt it was the right time to retire, not wanting to feel like a “problem” at the club.
As the football community prepares for Kroos’ farewell tour at Euro 2024, fans and pundits alike will be eager to see the German midfielder leave an indelible mark on the international stage, just as he has done throughout his illustrious club career.
🔗 Source