Toni Kroos spoke out after the final match of his career.
The defeat against Spain also marked Toni Kroos’ final professional match, and the former Real Madrid midfielder concluded his career in an incomplete manner. EURO 2024 came to a close for the host team Germany after a 1-2 loss to Spain, signifying Toni Kroos’ final match in his career.
Reflecting on the disappointing loss, the former Real Madrid midfielder said: ‘This was a match where we gave our all to avoid a defeat. The German national team came very close to achieving that goal. Ironically, this makes the defeat even more bitter. I believe all of us can be proud because the team once again brought hope to German football. Yet, everyone is deeply disappointed because we all aimed to go further.
However, the German national team has officially been eliminated, which is more significant than anything. Our initial goal was much bigger. Germany’s dream of a title at home has been shattered. Even in the coming days, we will realize that we had a good tournament, but we cannot escape the sadness and regret. I won’t say this was the most bitter match of my career, but it’s clear that the German national team gave everything they had and we should have avoided this defeat.
We have every right to be proud because what we accomplished was much better than before. I believe the German national team will continue to progress in the future.’
Coach Nagelsmann also commented on Kroos: ‘He is one of the most important players for the German national team. Everyone knows Kroos’ achievements, but not everyone knows his character.
For Kroos personally, announcing the end of his career certainly wasn’t simple. He always considered himself a part of this collective.’”