Former Real Madrid star Toni Kroos has this week admitted that he was left bemused by one particular selection call made by Barcelona manager Hansi Flick for El Clásico.
The decision in question came at the heart of defence, where Flick opted for a pairing of Pau Cubarsí, and Eric García.
Of the opinion that a different profile, in that of Ronald Araújo, would have been more suitable for the Bernabéu showcase, though, is the aforementioned Toni Kroos.
Speaking on his official podcast, Einfach mal Luppen, as cited by Mundo Deportivo, Real Madrid icon Kroos revealed his take that Araújo was ‘the perfect choice’ to deal with Kylian Mbappé and co:
“I don’t understand why Eric Garcia played. Yes, he’s slightly better than Araújo with the ball, but
Araújo has the physical strength to chase down opponents, especially when defending with a high line. He was the perfect choice for this style and this opponent. Honestly, I don’t understand their decision.”
Kroos, for his part, is far from alone in his take that Araújo was deserving of a start over the weekend.
Despite the persistent criticism aimed in the direction of the Uruguayan, droves of Barcelona supporters also called for Araújo’s inclusion for the Clásico, aware of the physical threat posed by Real Madrid’s all-action frontline.
Conor Laird – GSFN
