“I knew Toni Kroos was going to retire” - Fabrizio Romano shares why he refused to break Real Madrid legend’s retirement story to public
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has revealed that he had information regarding the retirement of Real Madrid legend Toni Kroos but decided against sharing this news. The German midfielder hung his boots after seeing his country fall to an extra-time defeat at the hands of Spain at Euro 2024.
Kroos announced to the world as the 2023-24 season neared its conclusion that he would be retiring after playing in the Euros this summer. The 34-year-old had been approached by his club to extend his contract but stood by his decision and played his last game in the UEFA Champions League final.
Fabrizio Romano has carved a niche for himself as one of the most reliable sources of transfer information, as well as a lot of insider information in football. The journalist was a guest of the Rising Ballers on YouTube, and he revealed that he was, in fact, aware that Toni Kroos would retire but chose to remain silent. He said:
“I knew that Toni Kroos was going to retire, that the decision was to leave Real Madrid and leave professional football. But out of respect, in some moments, it is the player who wants to communicate and you have to respect that. I always [do that] because it’s absolutely important for me."
Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti attempted to persuade Kroos to prolong his career without success, as his mind was made up. In the midfielder's final match for the club, he helped them win a 15th UEFA Champions League title, claiming a sixth winner's medal.
Having returned to the international fold earlier this year, the former Bayern Munich man featured in Euro 2024. The final game of his professional career came against Spain, the country where he has spent the last decade of his life, and his side were eliminated.
Adidas honors Real Madrid legend Toni Kroos after retirement
Sportswear giants Adidas have honored Real Madrid legend Toni Kroos after his retirement from professional football. The company has decided to rename a line of boots, the Adipure 11Pro, after the former midfielder.
Since its initial release in 2013, Kroos has decided to stick by the boots, refusing to wear any other brand or style until the end of his career. In recognition of the incredible loyalty shown by the German great, Adidas decided to rename the boots with his initials as the Adipure TKPro.
Toni Kroos has emulated Lionel Messi in having boots named after him by Adidas. The former Germany international won everything there was to win in club football and also won the FIFA World Cup in 2014.