Real Madrid and Germany midfielder Toni Kroos announces retirement after Euro 2024, ending an illustrious career that saw him win 22 titles with Los Blancos, including 5 Champions Leagues. The 34-year-old midfielder confirms Real Madrid was his "last club."
In an emotional announcement, Real Madrid and Germany midfield icon Toni Kroos has confirmed he will retire from professional football after the 2024 European Championship. The 34-year-old took to Instagram to share the momentous news, ending a legendary career that reached stratospheric heights at the Santiago Bernabeu.
"As I have always said: Real Madrid is and will be my last club," Kroos stated. "July 17th, 2014 - the day of my presentation at Real Madrid, the day that changed my life...It was the start of a new chapter at the biggest club in the world."
That new chapter developed into one of the most trophy-laden spells in Real Madrid's storied history. Across a decade in the Spanish capital, Kroos lifted an astonishing 22 titles, including five Champions League crowns. His pinpoint passing, tactical intelligence, and big-game mentality made him a pillar of Los Blancos' success.
"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 one of the great legends of our club and world football," an official club statement read. "Toni Kroos will forever remain in the hearts of all Madrid fans for the excellence of his football." Club president Florentino Perez paid tribute, stating: "Toni Kroos is one of the great players in Real Madrid history and this club is and will always be his home."
Before his Madrid move, Kroos shone for Bayern Munich, winning 3 Bundesliga titles and a Champions League. He was also a cornerstone of Germany's 2014 World Cup triumph in Brazil.
With his iconic career now entering its final chapter, football will celebrate one of its most decorated and distinguished stars over the next year. For now, chants of "Toni Kroos, Toni Kroos" will reverberate around the Bernabeu as the midfield maestro eyes one final piece of silverware - a 15th European Cup for Real Madrid.
