Tournament hosts Germany face a soaring Spain in an eagerly anticipated quarter-final clash at the Euros on Friday. This match could mark the end of Toni Kroos’ career, as the veteran plans to retire after the competition. Former Real Madrid striker Joselu has intensified the rivalry by expressing his hope to end his former teammate’s career.

He told reporters: “We hope it is his [Kroos’] last game. It is a game that is not special because of him being here. It is a quarter-final against a great team. We hope to retire Toni on Friday. He’s been a friend to me. I have spoken with him a lot and he has advised me a lot. He is fundamental for Germany and he has been for Real Madrid. We have to be careful with him on Friday.”

Joselu played alongside Kroos at Madrid last season, but he has set their friendship aside as Spain aims to defeat Germany on their home turf. The German midfielder has had a remarkable career, winning multiple trophies with Bayern Munich and Los Blancos. However, Joselu seems determined to prevent the 34-year-old from winning one of the few titles that has eluded him: the Euros.

If Spain triumphs over Germany on Friday, they will advance to face either 2016 winners Portugal or France in the semi-finals.

The new Al-Ghafara striker added: “It is very important to win to qualify. About Toni, we have to believe in ourselves. We don’t care about the other team’s players. I think Friday will be Toni’s last game.”

Joselu

Real Madrid performance and stats

Toni Kroos

Real Madrid performance and stats