Toni Kroos Named Germany’s Player Of The Year After Announcing Retirement

In his final season with Real Madrid, Toni Kroos won both the La Liga and the UEFA Champions League, capping up his professional career in the greatest possible way. Unfortunately, his last game for his country, Germany, was less than ideal as the eventual winners, Spain, eliminated them from the 2024 European Championship. Despite the outcome, his squad challenged La Roja toe to toe and emerged from the game with pride. The brilliant season that the midfield master had in his last season as a professional football player earned him the title of Germany's Player of the Year, a title he won twice in his career. The legendary Real Madrid player won the poll held by Kicker with an overwhelming 285 votes, followed by Florian Wirtz with 246.

Ending On A High Note

The legacy of Kroos will live on in both the international and club spheres. Fans began to recognize the player's talent as he took his performance to the next level. Despite the peculiar timing of his retirement, he was able to say goodbye after earning every award imaginable throughout his career. 

But the European Championship was the trophy the midfield player missed out on. If Toni Kroos had won the Euros this summer, he would have been happier without a doubt. But Spain eliminated Germany, the host country. 

Before heading to the Euros, Kroos had won his sixth UEFA Champions League title with Real Madrid. Upon Julian Nagelsmann's request, the 2014 World Cup champion returned to the national team at the start of the season, which offered the DFB squad stability and confidence as they got ready for the Euro 2024. Besides, Kroos was previously selected as the Footballer of the Year in 2018.

How Did Kroos React?

After receiving the prestigious honor for the second time, the former Real Madrid player spoke with the media and shared his thoughts, stating,

“This award is a beautiful confirmation and great recognition of what I achieved last year. Even if this is the last time I will win this award, it is an award that is not based on thanking the player who ended his career.”

The veteran then jokingly stated that, due to his retirement, he hoped he did not win.

“It’s an award that has nothing to do with age or the end of your career, but simply with your performance on the field. At least I hope that’s the case (laughs).”