The World Cup-winning midfielder faced taunts from the stands during his pursuit of Supercopa glory. Despite not being a fan favorite, Kroos played a crucial role in Real Madrid’s victories over Atletico and Barcelona, adding another major trophy to his collection.
Experienced and unfazed by terrace abuse, the 34-year-old initially couldn’t identify the target of the jeers. He explained to Einfach mal Luppen, “I didn’t expect it at all, I didn’t even think it was for me. The background is that I don’t think it’s good for young players to come into the league and give up the development, the big games, the high levels in Europe, which they could certainly play, instead of the money in the Saudi Arabian league. That was my statement at the time and it was about half a year ago now, for me it was already forgotten.”
Kroos became aware of the booing during the first half against Atletico, realizing it was directed at him. Unaffected and finding it amusing, he noted, “I noticed [booing] at some point during the first half [against Atletico]. At first, I didn’t think they were referring to me. Then I looked at the fans and realised: ‘Oh, this is for you…just for you.’ I can say, from the bottom of my heart, that it didn’t bother me or affect my way of playing, on the contrary, it was quite funny. I thought from time to time, who will be able to endure more. With time it could become boring and in the final I noticed that there were less and less of them [booing]. When [Carlo Ancelotti] replaced me, everyone pulled themselves together again and gathered all their strength [to boo me]. You get used to it and it makes you smile. The booing confirms my statements, I was probably right.”
In 2023, Kroos criticized players moving to the Saudi Pro League for financial gains, stating, “In the end, it is a decision for money and against football. Everyone has to make that decision for themselves, as Cristiano Ronaldo, who decided to do it towards the end of his career. But it becomes very difficult when players, who are in the middle of their career and have the quality to play for the best clubs in Europe, decide to make those changes. The lack of human rights is what would prevent me from leaving.”
As Kroos contemplates his future with his contract running down at Santiago Bernabeu, retirement has been suggested. However, the skillful playmaker is displaying no signs of slowing down at the highest level.
Toni Kroos
Toni Kroos
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Real Madrid will play the next match in Copa Del Rey against Atlético Madrid on Thursday 18th of January in Madrid. The prediction is Real Madrid winning the match.
