Ronaldo to Juventus: Kroos lauds departing 'true champion'

Madrid, July 11: Toni Kroos paid tribute to "true champion" Cristiano Ronaldo after he sealed a move to Juventus, with a number of other Real Madrid stars also lauding the departing forward.

Ronaldo leaves Madrid after a nine-year stay in LaLiga during which he became the club's all-time record goalscorer, having won four Champions Leagues in the last five seasons.

The 33-year-old Portugal international has signed a four-year deal at Juventus following a transfer worth €112million.

And Kroos added to earlier tributes from Sergio Ramos, Gareth Bale and Casemiro, among others, to send Ronaldo his best wishes.

"Crucial for the trophies we won in the past years," he posted on Twitter. "A true champion. It was a pleasure playing with you! All the best, legend."

Crucial for the trophies we won in the past years! A true champion. It was a pleasure playing with you! All the best, legend. @Cristiano pic.twitter.com/1C5x2ARSBT

— Toni Kroos (@ToniKroos) July 10, 2018

Lucas Vazquez, Marco Asensio and Nacho also thanked the departing great for his contributions as they prepare for life after Ronaldo.

Vazquez posted: "It's been a pleasure, Cris. Simply the best."

Ha sido un placer, Cris. Simplemente THE BEST. pic.twitter.com/TeF8RVY1RC

— Lucas Vázquez (@Lucasvazquez91) July 10, 2018

Asensio added: "It has been a pleasure to play by your side. You have been an example in every way. I wish you good luck in your new stage."

Ha sido un placer jugar a tu lado, has sido un ejemplo en todos los sentidos. Te deseo mucha suerte en tu nueva etapa @Cristiano pic.twitter.com/9p0zXSWMxa

— Marco Asensio (@marcoasensio10) July 10, 2018

And Nacho took a similar line, saying: "A pleasure to defend this badge with you. You are and will remain number one. All of Madrid will remember you as a leader. Good luck in your new stage!"

Un placer defender este escudo contigo. Eres y serás el número uno. Todo el madridismo te recordaremos como un líder. Suerte en tu nueva etapa bicho!!! @cristiano pic.twitter.com/toqZZO7xIc

— Nacho Fernández (@nachofi1990) July 10, 2018

Source: OPTA