An insight into the immediate reaction of the powers that be at La Liga giants Real Madrid to the news of Toni Kroos’ imminent departure has this afternoon been forthcoming.
For those who may have missed it, nothing short of a bombshell was dropped on all associated with Real Madrid a short time ago.
As much came by way of confirmation that midfield icon Kroos will hang up his boots upon the season’s close.
The German international had been locked in negotiations with the brass in Spain’s capital for several weeks now, regarding the renewal of his expiring contract.
In the end, however, Kroos came to the conclusion that the best route forward was to bring a close to not only his time at the Santiago Bernabéu, but his playing days as a whole.
As per an official statement across Los Blancos’ website and social media platforms on Tuesday afternoon:
‘Real Madrid CF confirms Toni Kroos has decided to bring an end to his time as a professional footballer following Euro 2024.
‘Real Madrid would like to express its gratitude and affection to Toni Kroos, a player who will go down in Real Madrid history as one of our club and international football’s greatest legends.’
Behind the scenes in Madrid, meanwhile, the fallout from the situation has already begun.
As revealed by the reliable Guillermo Rai of The Athletic, Real, as a club, have been left ‘broken’ by news of ‘the best’ preparing to move on.
Conor Laird | GSFN
