The 2014 World Cup champions show appreciation to Toni Kroos.
Miroslav Klose and Mats Hummels offer words of praise for their ex-teammate, Toni Kroos, as he prepares to bid farewell to the world of football. Kroos' impressive athletic achievements and remarkable human side are highlighted by both. Hummels is anticipating a special match-up, while Lothar Matthäus also commends the midfielder.
Miroslav Klose, a previous national team player, expressed his admiration for his long-time teammate Toni Kroos as he gets ready to end his illustrious career. In an interview with Münchner Merkur/tz media group, the 45-year-old remarked, "He's speechless." He was "amazing" to see how Kroos persevered at Real Madrid and the significant part he played there. Klose noted that the midfield veteran is admired by his fellow teammates, both in the national team and at his club. Kroos made his retirement announcement via lunchtime, stating he would step down after the European Championships taking place this summer.
Lothar Matthäus, a German record international, also gave a glowing tribute to Kroos. "He's possibly the greatest German footballer, certainly one of the greatest," the 1990 World Cup captain expressed to the Munich paper Abendzeitung. "He has won the World Cup and Champions League so many times!" Matthäus added, "He can crown himself with the European Championship title. It's the perfect moment. Like Philipp Lahm, he's leaving at the pinnacle." Matthäus also mentioned Kroos' chance of securing the Ballon d'Or. "It depends on his performance and success in the Champions League and at the European Championships," he said.
Both Hummels and Klose once teamed up at FC Bayern. Kroos has evolved into "a top-notch ball machine," according to the former striker. "The way Toni can read the game is unbelievable." The 34-year-old remains a "fantastic player." He also displayed his abilities during his national team comeback in March.
Klose emphasized that Kroos' normalcy in spite of his great accomplishments is why he stands out. "That's his greatest strength. This humanity that embodies him can't be surpassed. There aren't enough hats left to tip to him," said Klose about Kroos, who helped Germany triumph in the 2014 World Cup. "Toni could win another Champions League title in the final against Borussia Dortmund on June 1st. In total, he has collected seven league titles with Bayern and Real."
Hummels praises Kroos: "A footballing phenomenon"
"He has achieved so much. I'm pleased for him because he's earned it all," asserted Klose. "He has the opportunity to win two more titles with the Champions League and European Championship trophies. I'm crossing my fingers for him. That would be the well-deserved send-off he deserves."
In the meantime, Mats Hummels, who simultaneously won the World Cup with Kroos, is excited for a last big showdown with his national team colleague. "What a footballer - what an honor and a pleasure, Toni!" the Borussia Dortmund defender posted on Instagram. "Almost 20 years ago we were together at the Grünwalder, now we'll see each other again at Wembley to wrap things up in style."
Before the domestic European Championship, Kroos and Real Madrid will face Hummels and Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League final at London's Wembley Stadium on June 1st. While the midfielder is retiring, Hummels' fate with Dortmund - whose contract expires - is undecided.
Kroos and Hummels have a history playing together at Bayern Munich, including in the club's youth academy. They once played alongside each other on the reserves of the German soccer titans at the quaint and ancient Grünwalder Straße stadium.
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- Despite preparations for his retirement, Mats Hummels is looking forward to a thrilling encounter against Toni Kroos at the European Football Championship 2024, as both are part of their respective national teams.
- The Champions League final on June 1st will feature a clash between Toni Kroos' Real Madrid and Mats Hummels' Borussia Dortmund. Kroos, who announced his retirement after the European Championships, has a chance to add another Champions League title to his impressive collection.
- Miroslav Klose, a former teammate of Toni Kroos at the national soccer team, praised Klose's contribution to the team and his club, acknowledging his exceptional skill and unparalleled humanity. Klose also noted that Kroos had the chance to win two more titles with the Champions League and European Championship trophies.
Source: www.ntv.de
