Toni Kroos, Germany’s greatest player, formally retired from football on Sunday, two days after his team’s devastating quarterfinal loss to Spain at the European Championship.
Mikel Merino’s game-winning goal in the final minute of extra time gave Spain a 2-1 victory, eliminating the host nation and ending Kroos’ playing career.
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“So that’s it,” Kroos said in an Instagram post on Sunday. “But before I take a break and at least try to realise what happened over the last 17 years I don’t want to miss the opportunity to say thank you to everyone accepting me how and who I am.”
The 2014 World Cup winner went on to thank his fans, clubs, coaches, and teammates, as well as his friends and family, saying that there is “nothing better [than] seeing your kids being proud of daddy.”
Kroos has won numerous titles, largely with Real Madrid but also with Bayern Munich, including six Champions Leagues, four Spanish leagues, three Bundesligas, three German Cups, and one Copa del Rey.
The 34-year-old revealed in May that he would retire at the end of Euro 2024.
That meant that his 114th match for Germany would be his last.
Kroos concluded his message with the words: “Last but not least, thank you Football! You have a fantastic game. And you’re welcome! “Over and out.”
Kroos publicly apologised to the youngster at the end of an Instagram post and Pedri thanked the 34-year-old.
“Thank you Toni Kroos for your message,” the 21-year-old Pedri wrote in a post on social media.
“This is football and these things happen. Your career and your record remain forever.”
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