Toni Kroos: Germany and Real Madrid Legend Announces Retirement after Euro 2024

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Toni Kroos has announced his retirement from professional soccer after an illustrious career after the Euro 2024.

The celebrated midfielder will be hanging his boots from professional football after the continental tournament, as he announced on Tuesday (May 21).

Real Madrid shared the news, stating that Kroos will be leaving the club after a decade-long stay. At 34 years old, Kroos aims to leave a lasting legacy by clinching the Champions League trophy for Madrid as Los Blancos play Borussia Dortmund in the Final.

Real Madrid paid tribute to Kroos, describing him as one of the club's and international football's greatest legends. Kroos' achievements include winning the World Cup with Germany in 2014 and securing multiple titles with both Bayern Munich and Real Madrid.

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

The midfielder's contribution to Real Madrid has been monumental, with 463 appearances and a pivotal role in one of the club's most successful eras.

Madrid and Kroos reportedly discussed a contract extension, as his current contract was set to expire at the season's end. Despite this, Kroos had previously expressed uncertainty about his future beyond the current season. However, in a turn of events, Kroos confirmed in February his commitment to play for Germany at Euro 2024, following a request from coach Julian Nagelsmann.

The midfielder started his career with Bayern Munich and played 196 times for them. At the Spanish club, Kroos has won 4 UEFA Champions League titles, 4 Club World Cup and 4 La Liga titles. In total, Kroos won 22 titles in Spain. He has played 108 times for Germany and was part of their World Cup-winning squad in 2014.