Toni Kroos Will Retire After Euro 2024 with Germany

Real Madrid has confirmed that Toni Kroos will retire from football following Euro 2024. The World Cup winner will be remembered as one of the greatest midfielders of his generation, forming a legendary partnership with Luka Modric and Casemiro that saw Real Madrid dominate Europe, securing four Champions League titles since the German’s arrival in 2014.

Kroos, (34), started his career in Bayern Munich’s youth team before joining Real Madrid, where he played a crucial role in their success over the past decade. He has helped Madrid clinch four La Liga titles and four Champions League trophies and was a key player in Germany’s 2014 World Cup triumph.

The decision to retire comes after Kroos was recalled to the national team by manager Julian Nagelsmann for Euro 2024. A statement on Real Madrid’s website reads: “Real Madrid wants to express its gratitude and affection to Toni Kroos, a player who is already part of the history of Real Madrid and who is one of the great legends of our club and world football.”

Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez added: “Toni Kroos is one of the great players in the history of Real Madrid, and this club will always be his home.”

Kroos also addressed the news on Instagram, thanking Real Madrid fans for their unwavering support as the team aims for a record-extending 15th European title. He said: “July 17, 2014 – the day of my presentation at Real Madrid, the day that changed my life. 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 ten years, this chapter ends at the end of the season.

“I will never forget that incredibly successful time! I want to thank everyone who welcomed me with an open heart and trusted me. But mainly, I would like to thank you, dear Madridistas, for your affection and love from the first day until the last.

“At the same time, this decision means that my career as an active footballer will end this summer after the Euro championship. As I have always said, Real Madrid is and will be my last club. I am happy and proud that I found the right timing for my decision and could choose it myself. My ambition was always 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!#”

Real Madrid will conclude their La Liga campaign at home against Real Betis at the Bernabeu on Saturday, followed by the Champions League final against Borussia Dortmund at Wembley on June 1, broadcast live on TNT Sports. A victory in the final would earn Kroos his fifth Champions League title, equaling Cristiano Ronaldo’s record.

Meanwhile, teammates Dani Carvajal and Luka Modric could each add a sixth winners’ medal to their collection with a victory in North London.