Tributes have poured in in recent hours after Toni Kroos announced he would retire after this summer’s Euros.
The 34-year-old will play his last match at the Santiago Bernabéu on Sunday, and his last match for Real Madrid in the Champions League final.
Perhaps the most poignant tribute to Kroos was paid by his long-time midfield partner Luka Modric, who sent a fantastic message to the German maestro on Instagram.
Modric greets Kroos
“Toni, it’s hard for me to write these words. The world of football is sad because a historic player is leaving, and I admit that I am also very sad. My friend, you are a legend of this sport and a legend of Real Madrid. I had a lot of fun playing alongside you. It was an honor to share the Real Madrid midfielder with you. You have qualities that make you a unique and special player, and there will never be another Toni Kroos. Unforgettable European nights, titles, the magic of the Bernabeu – we will never forget this golden age of the club in our lives. You’ve accomplished everything, but you still have one more to go. Together for 15 years. I will miss you, my friend.”
Kroos’ retirement announcement means it is increasingly likely that Modric will stay at Real Madrid for at least another 12 months, although there is no doubt he would prefer they were still teammates…
