Toni Kroos bid a heartfelt farewell to the Santiago Bernabéu in his last game for Real Madrid, marked by an emotional outpouring of support and tribute from fans and teammates alike. The German midfielder announced his retirement from football earlier in the week, with his final appearance at the Bernabéu serving as a poignant moment for both him and the Real Madrid community.
The match, which ended in a 0-0 draw against Real Betis, was a testament to Kroos’ significant impact on the club. As he was substituted in the 85th minute, the entire stadium erupted in applause, with Kroos receiving a standing ovation. The midfielder was visibly moved, shedding tears as he embraced his teammates and his family, who were present on the pitch. Kroos, who joined Real Madrid in 2014 from Bayern Munich, has been a cornerstone of the team’s success over the past decade.
His contributions to the club have been immense, playing a crucial role in winning numerous titles, including four Champions League trophies and four LaLiga titles. The Bernabéu crowd, known for its discerning taste and passion for the game, showed their appreciation for Kroos in various ways throughout the match. From a guard of honor formed by his teammates to the unveiling of a special banner, the fans ensured Kroos’ last game at the Bernabéu was a memorable one.
The midfielder expressed his gratitude to the club, his teammates, and the fans in a post-match interview, stating, “I can only say thank you to all the Madridismo, to the club, to my teammates, to the stadium. I’ve always felt at home during these 10 years.” Kroos will have one more opportunity to add another trophy to his collection as Real Madrid face Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League final at Wembley on June 1.
This match will mark the end of an illustrious career for the German midfielder, who will also retire from international football after Euro 2024. As Kroos takes his leave, he leaves behind a legacy of excellence and professionalism, having won a total of 22 trophies with Real Madrid. His final bow at the Bernabéu was a fitting tribute to a player who has become a legend of the game.
