EURO 2024: Bringing the “champion gene” from Real Madrid back to the German national team poses a challenge for Toni Kroos at this juncture, but that’s precisely his mission as he decides to return to “Die Mannschaft.” One of the most notable achievements of coach Julian Nagelsmann since taking over the reins of the German national team to date is certainly convincing Toni Kroos to return to donning the “Die Mannschaft” jersey at EURO 2024.
Simply because Kroos remains Germany’s top-class player at this time, having just led Real Madrid (Spain) to another Champions League title with stellar performances at the age of 34.
Helping Germany conquer EURO 2024 on home soil is undoubtedly a very challenging task, but Kroos is the kind of player who thrives on such challenges, possessing both the talent and the character for it. Ahead of EURO 2024, Kroos not only solidifies his status as the most successful player in German football history with 34 trophies, including 6 Champions League titles, but also assumes the undisputed leadership role for the national team.
Kroos had to leave his homeland a decade ago to prove himself, specifically departing Bayern Munich to join the more prestigious Real Madrid.
And Kroos silenced all those who doubted his abilities. He not only affirmed his talent at the world’s greatest club but also served as their linchpin during their dazzling decade of success.
Kroos’s unique value became evident to German fans as he commanded Real Madrid’s midfield, reading and controlling matches with unprecedented precision.
Previously, Kroos’s reputation in Germany had been tarnished by criticisms that he slowed down games, earning him the nickname “Toni sideways pass.”
Speaking at Germany’s training camp in Herzogenaurach, Kroos said: “I still have the hunger. Playing in a major tournament on home turf with the goal of winning made me come back. It’s this thought that made me return. Otherwise, it wouldn’t have made sense at all.”
German national team fans should consider themselves fortunate that Kroos still has motivation for the national team. Even before winning his 6th Champions League title with Real Madrid, Kroos announced he would retire after the EURO 2024 finals.
Kroos consistently stated that Real Madrid would be his last club and he would not join any other team despite lucrative offers from the United States or Saudi Arabia.
Furthermore, the midfielder always emphasized that he wanted to retire at the peak of his career, refusing to accept a diminished role in any team.
True to his promise, Kroos opted for a grand exit from Real Madrid after winning La Liga, the Champions League, and the Spanish Super Cup, while still in peak form.
Explaining his decision, Kroos said: “I simply want to be remembered as Toni Kroos, age 34, who played his best season for Real Madrid in his final year. I’ve achieved that. I see it as a compliment when many thought I retired too soon.”
Kroos has never spoken of regret, as his achievements seem to tell the story. However, when talking about the German national team, many saw a smile on his face, as Kroos seemed to be enjoying the fairness he had long lost.
Bringing the “champion gene” from Real Madrid back to the German national team is a challenge for Kroos at this moment, but that’s exactly Kroos’s mission as he decides to return to “Die Mannschaft.”
He is the perfect link between established stars and emerging talents in the German national team.
Kroos certainly faces pressure in this comeback, but he doesn’t feel burdened. Because it’s something Kroos has experienced and overcome throughout his illustrious career.