On Friday, Toni Kroos ended his 17-year career in professional football. His final match was a dramatic one, as hosts Germany were knocked out of the 2024 European Championships by Spain.
Heartbreaking Defeat for Germany
Germany fought hard in the match. They came back from a 1-0 deficit with a last-second goal in normal time. But their hopes were dashed when Spain scored a winning goal in the 119th minute, ending Germany’s run in the tournament. This marked the end of Kroos’ football career, just one month after he had celebrated a Champions League victory with Real Madrid.
Spanish Fans Show Respect
Despite being the team that ended Kroos’ international career, Spanish fans showed incredible respect for him. A video shared by Sky Sports journalist Florian Plettenburg captured the moment. Instead of gloating, Spanish fans applauded Kroos and sang to him as he approached them to show his appreciation.
A Decade at Real Madrid
Kroos is a legend at Real Madrid, where he spent a decade and won 23 major trophies, including six Champions League titles and four La Liga championships. Many Spanish fans, familiar with his contributions to their club, were eager to thank him.
Kroos’ Retirement Announcement
In May, Kroos announced on Instagram that he would retire after the Euros. He posted photos of his career at Madrid and wrote: “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, in my mind, I found the right timing for my decision and that I could choose it by my own. My ambition was always to finish my career at the peak of my performance level. Now on, there is only leading thought: a por la 15 [winning Real Madrid’s 15th Champions League title]!”
Return to International Football
Although Kroos had retired from international football in July 2022, he returned for the 2024 Euros in Germany. After a conversation with manager Julian Nagelsmann, Kroos announced on Instagram: “I’ll be playing for Germany again from March. Why? Because I was asked by the coach and I’m up for it. I’m sure that much more is possible with the team at the European Championship than most people think right now.”
A Celebrated International Career
Kroos earned 114 caps for Germany and was a key player in the team that won the 2014 World Cup. In the final, Germany defeated Argentina 1-0 with a dramatic goal in the 113th minute.
Toni Kroos leaves behind a legacy of excellence, dedication, and sportsmanship. The respectful reaction from Spanish fans after his final match is a testament to the impact he has had on football, both in Germany and in Spain. As he steps away from the field, fans around the world celebrate his remarkable career and wish him well in his retirement.
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