Toni Kroos

Former German footballer.

Toni Kroos plays for Real Madrid, and his journey to becoming one of the most accomplished and respected midfielders in world football is a testament to his exceptional talent, unwavering dedication, and constant evolution as a player.

Born in Greifswald, East Germany, Kroos's football journey began at a young age when he joined the youth academy of his local club, Greifswalder FC. His prodigious skills and tactical awareness quickly caught the eye of Bundesliga giants Bayern Munich, who invited the young Kroos to join their renowned youth setup in 2006.

Over the next few years, Kroos honed his craft in Bayern's youth teams, progressing through the various age groups and earning his first-team debut in 2007 at the tender age of 17. Seeking more regular playing time, Kroos spent the next few seasons on loan, most notably with Bayer Leverkusen, where he continued to develop and showcase his exceptional abilities.

Kroos returned to Bayern in 2010 and quickly became an integral part of the club's midfield, helping them win numerous domestic and continental titles, including a historic treble in the 2012-13 season. His vision, passing range, and ability to control the tempo of the game made him an invaluable asset for the Bavarian powerhouse.

In 2014, Kroos made the high-profile move to Spanish giants Real Madrid, where he has continued to excel and cement his status as one of the best midfielders in the world. With Real, Kroos has won three consecutive UEFA Champions League titles, showcasing his unparalleled ability to perform at the highest level.

Throughout his career, Kroos has also been a key figure for the German national team, representing his country at numerous major tournaments, including the 2014 FIFA World Cup, where he played a crucial role in Germany's triumph. His leadership, tactical intelligence, and consistent performances have made him an indispensable part of the national team setup.

Off the field, Kroos has earned widespread praise for his professionalism, work ethic, and dedication to the game. His seamless integration into the various teams he has played for, and his ability to adapt to different systems and playing styles, have been instrumental in his sustained success.

Toni Kroos' career is a testament to the power of hard work, determination, and exceptional talent. From his humble beginnings in the youth ranks to his current status as one of the most influential midfielders of his generation, Kroos has left an indelible mark on the game, cementing his legacy as a true midfield maestro.

Family life & youth football

Toni Kroos was born on January 4, 1990, in Greifswald, East Germany (now part of unified Germany). From a young age, he showed immense promise as a footballer, joining the youth academy of local club Greifswalder FC. Kroos quickly impressed with his technical ability, vision, and tactical awareness, and in 2006, he was scouted by Bundesliga club Bayern Munich, who invited him to join their renowned youth setup.

Kroos spent the next few years honing his skills in Bayern's youth teams, progressing through the various age groups and earning praise for his exceptional performances. He made his first-team debut for Bayern in 2007 at the age of 17, becoming one of the youngest players to ever represent the club. Kroos spent the next few seasons on loan, gaining valuable first-team experience with Bayer Leverkusen, before returning to Bayern and establishing himself as a regular in the starting lineup.

Career beginnings

The 2007/08 season was a breakthrough year for Toni Kroos, marking his emergence as one of Germany's most promising young talents. At just 17 years old, Kroos made his professional debut for Bayern Munich's first team. He initially played with Bayern's reserves but was quickly promoted due to his exceptional performances and maturity beyond his years.

Kroos made his Bundesliga debut on September 26, 2007, against Energie Cottbus, and soon after, he made his first start in a match against Red Star Belgrade in the UEFA Cup, where he provided two assists. Throughout the season, Kroos featured in 20 matches for Bayern, contributing nine assists and one goal. His vision, passing accuracy, and composure earned him widespread acclaim, leading to comparisons with some of the game's top midfielders. This season laid the foundation for what would become an outstanding career.

The 2008/09 season was a significant one for Toni Kroos as it marked his first loan move, a key step in his development. In January 2009, after limited playing time at Bayern Munich, Kroos was loaned to Bayer Leverkusen to gain more experience. At Leverkusen, Kroos quickly became an essential part of the team, showcasing his immense potential.

He made 13 Bundesliga appearances in the latter half of the season, scoring his first professional goal in a match against VfL Wolfsburg in April 2009. Kroos contributed a total of three goals and two assists during his time at Leverkusen that season, impressing with his vision, passing, and ability to influence games despite his young age.

This loan spell was crucial in providing Kroos with regular first-team football, allowing him to further develop his skills and build the confidence that would eventually make him a mainstay in Bayern Munich's lineup.

In the 2009-10 season, Toni Kroos had a breakout year for Bayer Leverkusen in the Bundesliga. The young German midfielder, who was just 19 years old at the time, quickly established himself as a key player for the club.

Kroos made 33 appearances across all competitions, scoring 5 goals and providing 12 assists. His exceptional vision, passing ability, and mature decision-making on the ball were instrumental in Leverkusen's success that season. The team finished third in the Bundesliga, securing a spot in the UEFA Champions League for the following campaign.

Kroos' performances caught the attention of many top European clubs, and in 2010, he was signed by Bayern Munich, one of the most prestigious teams in world football. This move proved to be a significant turning point in Kroos' career, as he went on to become a vital cog in Bayern's midfield for the next decade, winning numerous domestic and continental titles.

The 2009-10 season marked the beginning of Toni Kroos' rise to prominence as one of the most talented and influential midfielders in the game. His ability to control the tempo of a match, create chances for his teammates, and contribute defensively made him an invaluable asset to Leverkusen and, later, to Bayern Munich and the German national team. This breakout campaign set the stage for Kroos to become one of the most respected and decorated players of his generation.

In the 2010-11 season, Toni Kroos continued to build on his impressive breakout campaign the previous year with Bayer Leverkusen, further cementing his reputation as one of the brightest young talents in European football.

After securing a move to Bayern Munich in the summer of 2010, Kroos was immediately integrated into the Bavarian club's starting lineup. Playing primarily as a central midfielder, the 20-year-old made 43 appearances across all competitions, scoring 5 goals and providing 13 assists.

Kroos' effortless control of the ball, exceptional passing range, and keen tactical awareness were crucial in helping Bayern win the Bundesliga and DFB-Pokal double that season. His performances were particularly noteworthy in the Champions League, where Bayern reached the final before losing to Inter Milan.

Alongside established stars like Bastian Schweinsteiger and Thomas Müller, Kroos formed an integral part of Bayern's midfield engine room. His ability to dictate the tempo of the game, switch the play, and create chances for the team's forwards made him an invaluable asset for the club.

The 2010-11 campaign cemented Kroos' status as one of the most promising young midfielders in world football. His seamless transition to the demands of playing for a top club like Bayern Munich, coupled with his continued development and impressive displays, laid the foundations for what would become a highly decorated and influential career at the highest level of the game.

Development and breakthrough

In the 2011-12 season, Toni Kroos continued his rapid development and established himself as a key player in Bayern Munich's midfield.

At the age of 21, Kroos was given an increasingly prominent role within the team, making 45 appearances across all competitions and contributing 6 goals and 15 assists. His exceptional passing range, vision, and ability to control the tempo of the game were instrumental in Bayern's success that season.

Kroos was a driving force as Bayern won the Bundesliga title, their second consecutive league triumph. His performances were particularly impressive in the club's run to the UEFA Champions League final, where they ultimately fell to Chelsea in a dramatic penalty shootout.

Kroos' consistent displays and growing influence within the team did not go unnoticed, and he soon became one of the first names on the teamsheet for both Bayern and the German national team. His ability to dictate play from a deep-lying midfield position, while also contributing to the team's attacking threat, made him an invaluable asset.

Off the field, Kroos continued to mature and develop, both as a player and a person. He was praised for his professionalism, his dedication to improving his game, and his ability to adapt to the demands of playing for one of Europe's top clubs.

The 2011-12 season marked a significant milestone in Kroos' career, as he cemented his status as one of the most promising young midfielders in world football. His performances that year laid the foundation for the sustained success and accolades that would follow in the years to come, as Kroos went on to become one of the most decorated and influential players of his generation.

The 2012-13 season saw Toni Kroos take another step forward in his development at Bayern Munich, cementing his place as a key player in the club's midfield.

At the age of 22, Kroos made 49 appearances across all competitions, scoring 10 goals and providing 21 assists. His ability to control the tempo of the game, dictate play from deep, and create scoring opportunities for his teammates were instrumental in Bayern's historic treble-winning campaign.

Kroos was a consistent performer throughout the season, contributing to Bayern's dominance in the Bundesliga, where they won the title by a remarkable 25-point margin. His performances were equally impressive in the UEFA Champions League, where Bayern defeated Borussia Dortmund in the final at Wembley Stadium.

Kroos' vision, passing accuracy, and tactical awareness were particularly noteworthy in the Champions League, as he helped Bayern navigate their way through a challenging knockout stage and emerge victorious against some of Europe's top teams.

Off the field, Kroos continued to mature as a player and a person, earning praise for his professionalism, work ethic, and team-first mentality. His ability to seamlessly adapt to the demands of playing for a top club and competing at the highest level underscored his exceptional talent and potential.

The 2012-13 season firmly established Toni Kroos as one of the best midfielders in world football, setting the stage for even greater success in the years to come.

The 2013-14 season was another standout year for Toni Kroos, as he played a pivotal role in Bayern Munich's continued dominance both domestically and in Europe.

At the age of 23, Kroos continued to be a driving force in Bayern's midfield, making 52 appearances across all competitions and contributing 13 goals and 19 assists. His ability to dictate the tempo of the game, control possession, and create scoring opportunities for his teammates were instrumental in Bayern's Bundesliga and DFB-Pokal double.

Kroos' performances in the Champions League were particularly impressive, as he helped Bayern reach the semi-finals of the competition. His vision, passing accuracy, and tactical awareness were crucial in navigating a challenging knockout stage and facing some of Europe's top teams.

Off the field, Kroos continued to mature both as a player and a person, earning widespread praise for his professionalism, work ethic, and leadership qualities. His seamless integration into the Bayern squad and his ability to consistently perform at the highest level cemented his status as one of the most valuable players in the team.

The 2013-14 season saw Kroos further solidify his reputation as one of the premier midfielders in world football, with his performances and contributions helping Bayern maintain their position as one of the dominant forces in European football.

The 2014-15 season marked a significant transition in Toni Kroos' career, as he made a high-profile move from Bayern Munich to Real Madrid.

At the age of 24, Kroos left the Bundesliga powerhouse to join the Spanish giants, where he would play a crucial role in the team's continued success on the domestic and European stages.

Kroos made 52 appearances across all competitions for Real Madrid, scoring 3 goals and providing 15 assists. His ability to control the tempo of the game, dictate possession, and create scoring opportunities for his teammates were immediately evident in his new surroundings.

Kroos' performances were instrumental in Real Madrid's triumph in the UEFA Champions League, where the club secured its 10th European title. His vision, passing accuracy, and tactical awareness were crucial in navigating the challenging knockout rounds and emerging victorious against formidable opponents.

Off the field, Kroos continued to demonstrate his professionalism, work ethic, and leadership qualities, quickly establishing himself as a key player in the Real Madrid squad. His seamless adaptation to the demands of playing for one of the world's most prestigious clubs underscored his exceptional talent and versatility.

The 2014-15 season marked a significant milestone in Kroos' career, as he made the move to Real Madrid and immediately made an impact, helping the club achieve success at the highest level. This transition further cemented his status as one of the most influential midfielders in world football.

Continued growth & development

In the 2015-16 season, Toni Kroos continued to play a central role in Real Madrid's success, helping the club clinch the UEFA Champions League title for the second consecutive year.

At the age of 25, Kroos was a mainstay in Real Madrid's midfield, making 51 appearances across all competitions and contributing 3 goals and 12 assists. His ability to control the tempo of the game, dictate possession, and create scoring opportunities for his teammates were essential to the team's success.

Kroos' performances were particularly impressive in the Champions League, where his vision, passing accuracy, and tactical awareness were crucial in navigating the challenging knockout rounds. His contributions were pivotal in Real Madrid's victory over city rivals Atlético Madrid in the final, securing the club's 11th European title.

Off the field, Kroos continued to demonstrate his professionalism, leadership, and commitment to the team. His seamless integration into the squad and his ability to consistently perform at the highest level cemented his status as one of the most valuable players in the Real Madrid lineup.

The 2015-16 season saw Kroos consolidate his position as a key player for both Real Madrid and the German national team, further enhancing his reputation as one of the best midfielders in world football.

The 2016-17 season was another highly successful campaign for Toni Kroos and Real Madrid, as the club completed a historic double by winning both the La Liga title and the UEFA Champions League.

At the age of 26, Kroos continued to be a central figure in Real Madrid's midfield, making 47 appearances across all competitions and contributing 3 goals and 13 assists. His ability to control the tempo of the game, dictate possession, and create scoring opportunities for his teammates were instrumental in the team's success.

Kroos' performances in the Champions League were particularly impressive, as he helped Real Madrid navigate a challenging knockout stage and ultimately triumph over Juventus in the final. His vision, passing accuracy, and tactical awareness were crucial in the club's ability to dominate possession and create numerous goal-scoring chances.

Off the field, Kroos maintained his reputation for professionalism, leadership, and dedication to the team. His seamless integration into the squad and his ability to consistently perform at the highest level further cemented his status as one of the most influential players in world football.

The 2016-17 season saw Kroos continue to solidify his place as a key player for both Real Madrid and the German national team, contributing to the club's historic double and further enhancing his reputation as one of the best midfielders of his generation.

The 2017-18 season was another triumphant campaign for Toni Kroos and Real Madrid, as the club secured a third consecutive UEFA Champions League title.

At the age of 27, Kroos remained a central figure in Real Madrid's midfield, making 46 appearances across all competitions and contributing 3 goals and 12 assists. His ability to control the tempo of the game, dictate possession, and create scoring opportunities for his teammates were once again instrumental in the team's success.

Kroos' performances in the Champions League were particularly impressive, as he helped Real Madrid navigate a challenging knockout stage and ultimately defeat Liverpool in the final. His vision, passing accuracy, and tactical awareness were crucial in the club's ability to dominate possession and create numerous goal-scoring chances.

Off the field, Kroos continued to demonstrate his professionalism, leadership, and dedication to the team. His seamless integration into the squad and his ability to consistently perform at the highest level further cemented his status as one of the most influential players in world football.

The 2017-18 season saw Kroos add a third consecutive Champions League title to his growing list of accolades, solidifying his position as a key player for both Real Madrid and the German national team. His contributions during this campaign further enhanced his reputation as one of the best midfielders of his generation.

Kroos' 2018/19 campaign with Real Madrid was another standout season for the German midfielder, as he continued to orchestrate the team's play with his unparalleled vision, passing range, and tactical acumen.

In La Liga, the 29-year-old Kroos made 33 appearances, contributing 2 goals and 9 assists as Real Madrid navigated a challenging season that saw the departure of legendary manager Zinedine Zidane and the arrival of Julen Lopetegui and Santiago Solari. Despite the changes in the dugout, Kroos remained a constant, his ability to control the tempo of the game and dictate possession proving crucial to the team's success.

Kroos' influence was perhaps most evident in Real Madrid's quest for a fourth consecutive UEFA Champions League title. The German international played a pivotal role in the team's run to the round of 16, where they ultimately fell to eventual champions Ajax. Kroos' vision, passing accuracy, and tactical awareness were instrumental in helping Real Madrid navigate the group stage and secure a place in the knockout rounds.

Off the field, Kroos continued to be regarded as a model professional, with his leadership and mentorship of younger players within the Real Madrid squad being widely praised. His dedication to the team's cause and his ability to adapt to different tactical setups have been essential in maintaining his status as a central figure within the club.

At the international level, Kroos represented the German national team, playing a key role in their ultimately disappointing 2018 FIFA World Cup campaign and the team's subsequent Nations League and Euro 2020 qualification efforts. Despite the national team's struggles, Kroos' composure, experience, and midfield control remained invaluable assets for the four-time world champions.

The 2018/19 season was a testament to Toni Kroos' unwavering influence and importance within the Real Madrid setup. Though the team faced numerous challenges, both on and off the field, the German maestro continued to demonstrate his ability to control the tempo, create chances, and provide the foundations for the team's attacking play. His performances throughout the campaign have further cemented his status as one of the most influential midfielders in the world.

As Kroos approaches the peak of his career, his commitment to the game and his willingness to adapt to the evolving demands of modern football have been exemplary. The 2018/19 season was yet another chapter in the illustrious career of this midfield virtuoso, as he continues to leave an indelible mark on the sport he has dominated for over a decade.

Peak of his career

Toni Kroos' continued his dominant performances in the 2019/20 season, once again proving to be a central figure in Real Madrid's midfield. The German international's ability to control the tempo of the game, dictate possession, and create scoring opportunities for his teammates was instrumental in the club's success.

In La Liga, Kroos made 32 appearances, contributing 3 goals and 8 assists as Real Madrid clinched the league title. His vision, passing range, and tactical awareness were crucial in helping the team navigate a challenging campaign, which was further complicated by the COVID-19 pandemic and the subsequent suspension of the league.

Kroos' influence was equally evident in Real Madrid's UEFA Champions League campaign, where the club reached the round of 16 before the tournament was ultimately postponed due to the health crisis. The German maestro's composure on the ball, combined with his ability to shield the backline and initiate attacking moves, proved invaluable as Real Madrid faced off against the likes of Paris Saint-Germain and Manchester City.

Off the field, Kroos continued to be regarded as a model professional, with his leadership and mentorship of younger players within the Real Madrid squad being widely recognized. His dedication to the team's cause and his willingness to adapt to different tactical setups have been essential in maintaining his status as a key figure within the club.

At the international level, Kroos represented the German national team, playing a crucial role in their qualifying campaign for the postponed 2020 European Championships. His experience, composure, and midfield control proved valuable as Germany navigated a challenging group stage and secured their place in the tournament.

The 2019/20 season was a further demonstration of Toni Kroos' enduring quality and influence as one of the premier midfielders in world football. Despite the unique challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the German veteran continued to showcase his ability to control the tempo, create chances, and contribute to his team's overall success. His performances throughout the campaign have solidified his status as an indispensable player for both Real Madrid and the German national team.

Kroos continued to demonstrate his exceptional abilities during the 2021/22 season while playing for Spanish club Real Madrid. As the orchestrator of the team's midfield, the 32-year-old Kroos displayed his unparalleled vision, passing range, and tactical awareness.

The 2021/22 campaign proved to be a successful one for both Kroos and Real Madrid. In La Liga, the German international made 32 appearances, contributing 3 goals and 8 assists as the club mounted a strong challenge for the league title. Kroos' ability to control the tempo of the game, dictate possession, and unlock opposing defenses with his incisive passing was crucial to Real Madrid's consistent performances.

Kroos' influence was perhaps most evident in Real Madrid's UEFA Champions League campaign, where the club embarked on a remarkable journey to the final. Throughout the knockout stages, Kroos' tactical acumen and composure on the ball were crucial in navigating past formidable opponents such as Paris Saint-Germain, Chelsea, and Manchester City. His ability to shield the backline and provide the foundations for the team's attacking forays proved invaluable.

The Champions League final against Liverpool in Paris was a showcase of Kroos' midfield mastery. Despite the high-stakes nature of the match, the German veteran maintained his composure and control, helping Real Madrid secure a 1-0 victory and their 14th European crown. Kroos' performance on the night was a testament to his enduring class, as he completed 92% of his passes and effectively dictated the tempo of the game.

Off the field, Kroos continued to be regarded as a model professional, with his leadership and mentorship of younger players within the Real Madrid squad being widely recognized. His dedication to the team's cause and his ability to adapt to different tactical setups have been essential in maintaining his status as a key figure within the team.

At the international level, Kroos represented the German national team, contributing to their successful qualification campaign for the 2022 FIFA World Cup. His experience, composure, and midfield control proved valuable as Germany navigated a challenging group and secured their place in the tournament.

The 2021/22 season was a further demonstration of Toni Kroos' enduring quality and influence as one of the premier midfielders in world football. Despite the physical demands of the game, Kroos continued to showcase his ability to control the tempo, create chances, and contribute to his team's overall success. His performances throughout the campaign have cemented his legacy as one of the great midfielders of his generation.

As Kroos approaches the latter stages of his career, his commitment to the game and his willingness to adapt to the evolving demands of modern football have been exemplary. The 2021/22 season was yet another chapter in the illustrious career of this midfield virtuoso, as he continues to leave an indelible mark on the sport he has dominated for over a decade.

Toni Kroos, the experienced German midfielder, continued to showcase his exceptional abilities during the 2022/23 season. Playing for Spanish giants Real Madrid, Kroos demonstrated his continued influence and importance within the team's midfield setup.

Throughout the 2022/23 campaign, Kroos played a significant role in Real Madrid's pursuit of domestic and European glory. In La Liga, the 33-year-old made 32 appearances, contributing 3 goals and 9 assists as the club challenged for the league title. Kroos' ability to control the tempo of the game, dictate possession, and create scoring opportunities for his teammates was crucial to Real Madrid's success.

Kroos' impact was perhaps most evident in Real Madrid's UEFA Champions League campaign. As the team navigated a challenging knockout stage, Kroos' vision, passing accuracy, and tactical awareness were instrumental in securing victories over formidable opponents such as Paris Saint-Germain, Chelsea, and Manchester City. His calming presence in midfield and his skill in maintaining control of the game proved invaluable for the Spanish club.

The Champions League final against Liverpool in Istanbul was a showcase of Kroos' enduring quality. Despite the high-stakes nature of the match, the German midfielder maintained his composure and control, helping Real Madrid secure a 1-0 victory and their 14th European title. Kroos' performance on the night was a testament to his ability to dictate the tempo of the game and shield the backline from the opposition's attacking threat.

Off the field, Kroos continued to be regarded as a model professional, with his leadership and mentorship of younger players within the Real Madrid squad being widely recognized. His dedication to the team's cause and his ability to adapt to different tactical setups have been essential in maintaining his status as a key figure within the team.

At the international level, Kroos represented the German national team, contributing to their successful qualification campaign for the 2022 FIFA World Cup. His experience, composure, and ability to control the midfield proved valuable as Germany navigated a challenging group and secured their place in the tournament.

The 2022/23 season was another demonstration of Toni Kroos' enduring quality and influence as one of the premier midfielders in world football. His ability to control the game, create chances for his teammates, and contribute to his team's overall success has made him an integral part of both Real Madrid and the German national team.

As Kroos approaches the latter stages of his career, he continues to showcase his adaptability and commitment to the sport. His performances throughout the 2022/23 season have cemented his legacy as one of the great midfielders of his generation, with his seamless orchestration of Real Madrid's midfield a testament to his exceptional talent and dedication.

Kroos' consistent contribution to his team's success, both domestically and in Europe, has been a hallmark of his career. The 2022/23 campaign was no exception, as the German maestro once again demonstrated his ability to dictate the tempo of the game and create opportunities for his teammates to thrive.

Beyond his on-field exploits, Kroos' professionalism and leadership off the pitch have also been widely praised. His mentorship of younger players and his willingness to adapt to the evolving demands of the game have made him an invaluable asset to both Real Madrid and the German national team.

As Kroos continues to ply his trade at the highest level, his impact on the sport is likely to only grow. His ability to consistently perform at the top of his game, even as he approaches the twilight of his career, is a testament to his exceptional talent and his unwavering dedication to the game he loves.

Latter stages of his career

Toni Kroos's 2023/24 season was marked by significant achievements and a fitting conclusion to his illustrious career. Playing for Real Madrid, Kroos made a total of 56 appearances, contributing 12 assists and playing a crucial role in the midfield. His performances were instrumental in Real Madrid's successes, including their pursuit of both domestic and European titles.

Throughout the season, Kroos showcased his exceptional passing ability and vision, which have long been hallmarks of his game. Despite not scoring any goals, his contributions were vital in orchestrating play from the midfield, providing stability and creativity. His ability to control the tempo of the game and deliver precise passes made him an indispensable part of Real Madrid's midfield setup.

Kroos's influence extended beyond club football as he also played a significant role in Germany's national team during the European Championship. He participated in several matches, helping Germany reach the later stages of the tournament. However, Germany's journey ended with a defeat to Spain, the eventual champions, marking the conclusion of Kroos's international career.

One of the highlights of Kroos's season was being named Germany's Player of the Year for the 2023/24 season. This accolade, awarded by the German sports publication Kicker, recognized his outstanding performances and contributions to both club and country. It was the second time Kroos received this honor, having previously won it in 2018.

Kroos's season was also notable for his decision to retire from professional football at the end of the 2023/24 campaign. He announced his retirement following Germany's exit from the European Championship, bringing an end to a remarkable career that included numerous titles and individual honors. His retirement was a significant moment in the football world, as he had been a key figure in Real Madrid's midfield for many years, contributing to their domestic and European successes.

In summary, Toni Kroos's 2023/24 season was a testament to his enduring quality and influence on the pitch. His ability to dictate play and his exceptional passing skills remained evident throughout the season, helping Real Madrid in their competitive pursuits. As he retired from professional football, Kroos left behind a legacy of excellence and achievement, both at the club and international levels. His contributions to the game will be remembered by fans and peers alike, marking the end of an era for one of football's most accomplished midfielders.

Youth national sides

Kroos' exceptional performances at the youth level did not go unnoticed, and he quickly earned call-ups to the German national team's youth squads. He represented Germany at the under-17 and under-19 levels, showcasing his talent and leadership qualities.

At the 2009 UEFA European Under-17 Championship, Kroos captained the German team and played a pivotal role in their run to the final, where they ultimately fell to the Netherlands. Despite the defeat, Kroos' performances earned him widespread acclaim and cemented his reputation as one of the brightest young talents in European football.

Kroos' success at the youth international level continued as he progressed to the under-19 team, where he continued to impress with his technical ability, vision, and tactical understanding. These formative experiences at the international level helped shape Kroos into the world-class midfielder he would become in the years to come.

Full international

Toni Kroos, one of the most accomplished midfielders of his generation, had an illustrious international career with the German national team. Spanning over a decade, his contributions were pivotal in Germany's footballing successes in the 2010s. Kroos’ international journey is marked by his technical proficiency, vision, and composure under pressure, making him an integral part of the team's midfield.

Kroos made his senior debut for Germany in March 2010, in a friendly against Argentina. At the time, he was already showing promise at club level with Bayer Leverkusen and Bayern Munich, but his integration into the national team was seen as the next big step in his career. The 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa was his first major international tournament, and although he was just 20 years old, Kroos featured in three games, all as a substitute.

Germany's run to the semifinals in 2010, where they played some of the most entertaining football of the tournament, helped establish Kroos as a player for the future. He was part of a young, dynamic German squad that finished third after defeating Uruguay in the playoff match.

After the World Cup, Kroos became a regular in the German squad, gradually cementing his place in the starting eleven. His versatility allowed him to play in various midfield roles, but it was as a central or deep-lying playmaker where he truly excelled. Kroos' ability to control the tempo of the game, his exceptional passing range, and his intelligence on the ball made him indispensable to Germany’s evolving style under coach Joachim Löw.

During the UEFA Euro 2012, Kroos was again a key figure for Germany, who were one of the favorites to win the tournament. He played in all of Germany’s matches, although they were ultimately eliminated by Italy in the semifinals. Despite this disappointment, Kroos continued to grow in stature, both in the national team and at club level with Bayern Munich.

The 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil was the zenith of Kroos' international career. Germany entered the tournament with high expectations, and Kroos played a crucial role in their success. He was the central cog in a team that combined efficiency with flair, orchestrating play from midfield with his precise passing and intelligent movement.

Kroos' most memorable performance came in the historic 7-1 semifinal demolition of Brazil. In that match, he scored two goals in quick succession and was involved in several other goals, delivering a masterclass in midfield domination. His performances throughout the tournament earned him a place in the FIFA World Cup All-Star XI, and he was widely regarded as one of the best players of the tournament.

Germany went on to win the World Cup, defeating Argentina 1-0 in the final after extra time. This victory marked Germany’s fourth World Cup title and their first as a unified nation. For Kroos, it was the crowning achievement of his career, solidifying his status as one of the world’s top midfielders.

Following the World Cup triumph, Kroos remained a central figure in the German team. In UEFA Euro 2016, he was expected to lead the team to another major title. While Kroos was one of Germany's standout performers, the team fell short in the semifinals, losing to host nation France. This was a bitter pill for Germany, who were again among the tournament favorites.

The 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia marked a low point in Kroos' international career. Germany, the defending champions, suffered a shocking group-stage exit. Despite this, Kroos had a memorable moment in the tournament when he scored a dramatic last-minute free-kick against Sweden to secure a 2-1 victory. However, this moment of brilliance was not enough to salvage Germany’s campaign, which ended in disappointment.

The early exit in 2018 was followed by a period of transition for the German national team. Kroos continued to be a key player, but the team struggled to recapture its previous form. The UEFA Euro 2020 (played in 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic) was Kroos' final major tournament. Germany was eliminated in the Round of 16 by England, and shortly after, Kroos announced his retirement from international football.

In July 2021, after earning 106 caps and scoring 17 goals, Toni Kroos retired from international football. His decision was driven by a desire to focus on his club career with Real Madrid and to spend more time with his family. However, the story of Kroos' international career took an unexpected turn as he came out of retirement to rejoin the German national team for UEFA Euro 2024.

Germany, hosting the tournament, faced immense pressure to perform well, and Kroos’ return was seen as a boost to a team that had been struggling for consistency. With his experience and leadership, he was expected to guide a new generation of German players.

Kroos slotted back into the midfield as if he had never left, bringing his usual blend of composure, passing accuracy, and strategic thinking. Germany made it through the group stage with relative ease, and hopes were high as they advanced to the knockout rounds.

In the quarterfinals, Germany faced Spain, a team renowned for its own midfield mastery. The match was a tightly contested battle, with both teams showcasing their technical abilities and tactical discipline. Kroos was instrumental in Germany’s efforts to control the game, but despite his best efforts, Germany was unable to break down a resilient Spanish defense. The match ended in a 1-0 defeat for Germany, with Spain scoring late in the second half to secure their place in the semifinals.

For Kroos, this defeat marked the end of his international career, this time for good. Although his return did not result in a fairytale ending, his legacy in German football remains unblemished. With 118 caps and 17 goals, Kroos is celebrated as one of the greatest midfielders in Germany’s history, his career defined by a World Cup triumph and countless moments of brilliance on the international stage.

Kroos' decision to come out of retirement for Euro 2024 demonstrated his enduring love for the game and his desire to help his country on the biggest stage. While the tournament did not yield the desired outcome, his influence on and off the pitch continues to be felt, and his contributions to German football will be remembered for generations.

Player’s style

Kroos is renowned for his exceptional passing ability, vision, and tactical intelligence. As a central midfielder, he excels at controlling the tempo of the game and dictating the flow of play. Kroos possesses an exceptional range of passing, able to play intricate, short passes to keep possession, as well as longer, raking balls to switch the point of attack. His ability to read the game and anticipate the movement of his teammates allows him to make precise, timely passes that unlock opposing defenses. Kroos is also a competent dribbler and a capable defensive contributor, using his positioning and reading of the game to intercept passes and break up opposition attacks. His composure, decision-making, and versatility have made him one of the most influential midfielders of his generation.