21st May, 2024
By Taiwo Okanlawon
German professional footballer who plays as a midfielder for La Liga club Real Madrid, Toni Kroos has announced his retirement from professional football at the age of 34.
Announcing his retirement in a letter to Real Madrid fans, Kroos expressed his gratitude for their love and support since he joined the club in 2014.
Kroos also confirmed that the 2024 Euros will mark his final international appearance.
He wrote: “As I have always said: Real Madrid is and will be my last club. July 17th, 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 10 years, at the end of the season, this chapter comes to an end. I will never forget that insolent successful time! I would particularly like to thank everyone who welcomed me with an open heart and trusted me.
“But especially I would like to thank you, dear Madridistas, for your affection and your love from the first day until the last one. At the same time, this decision means that my career as an active footballer will end this summer after the Euro championship.
“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. 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.”
https://x.com/ToniKroos/status/1792905679323140420
In his 11 seasons at the club, Kroos won five Champions League and scored a total of 28 goals.
Widely regarded as one of the greatest midfielders of all time, he is known for his vision, passing, creativity, crossing and set-piece ability.