Real Madrid midfielder Toni Kroos will retire after representing Germany at UEFA Euro 2024.
The 34-year-old was thought to be likely to sign a new contract with Los Blancos but announced on Tuesday that he would be hanging up his boots after representing his country on home soil at the Euros.
Tony Kroos enjoyed a superb 10 years at Madrid, who he joined from Bayern Munich in 2014, winning LaLiga four times and the UEFA Champions League with the Spanish giants.
He played a key role as Carlo Ancelotti’s men reclaimed their domestic title in 2023-24, but next week’s UEFA Champions League final against Borussia Dortmund will be the final game of his club career before his Euro swansong.
He initially retired from international football following the postponed Euro 2020 three years ago, only to agree a return under Julian Nagelsmann earlier this year.
In an open letter to Madrid fans, Kroos wrote: “As I have always said, Real Madrid is and will be my last club.
“After 10 years, at the end of the season, this chapter closes. I will never forget this successful time! I would like to thank everyone who accepted me with an open heart and believed in me.”
“But I would especially like to thank you, dear Madridistas, for your affection and love from the first day to the last.
“At the same time, this decision means that my career as an active football player will end this summer after the European Championship.”
Kroos also let out a howl of protest as Madrid aim for a record 15th European crown, adding: “I’m happy and proud that I found the right timing for my decision in my mind and that I was able to choose it myself.
“My ambition has always been to finish my career at the peak of my performance level. From now on there is only one main idea, la 15! Halla Madrid!”
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