Germany midfielder Toni Kroos has announced his retirement from international football at the age of 34, following their defeat to Spain in the Euro 2024 quarter-finals. Despite his farewell ending in defeat, Kroos showed his class by apologising to Pedri for the tackle that led to the Spanish midfielder's injury. He initially retired after Germany's last 16 loss at Euro 2020, but was convinced to return by manager Julian Nagelsmann before the start of Euro 2024.
Toni Kroos Retires from International Football After Germany's Euro 2024 Exit
German midfielder Toni Kroos has announced his retirement from international football at the age of 34, following his team's quarter-final defeat to Spain at Euro 2024.
Kroos, who made his international debut in 2010, has been a key figure in the German national team for over a decade, winning the FIFA World Cup in 2014. He has also represented his country at three UEFA European Championships, finishing third in 2012 and 2016.
His retirement comes as a surprise to many, as he had previously indicated that he intended to continue playing for Germany until the 2024 World Cup in Qatar. However, Kroos has stated that he feels the time is right to step away from international football and focus on his club career with Real Madrid.
"After a lot of consideration, I have decided to retire from international football," Kroos said in a statement. "It was an incredibly difficult decision, but it is the right one for me at this stage of my career."
"I am very grateful for the opportunity to have represented my country and to have achieved so much with the national team. It has been an honor and a privilege to play for Germany, and I will cherish these memories forever."
Top 5 FAQs about Toni Kroos' International Retirement
Why did Toni Kroos retire from international football? Kroos has stated that he feels the time is right to step away from international football and focus on his club career with Real Madrid.
How many caps did Toni Kroos earn for Germany? Kroos earned 106 caps for Germany, scoring 17 goals.
What was Toni Kroos' most memorable moment for Germany? Kroos' most memorable moment for Germany was winning the FIFA World Cup in 2014.
Who will replace Toni Kroos in the German national team? It is too early to say who will replace Toni Kroos in the German national team, but some potential candidates include Joshua Kimmich and Florian Neuhaus.
Will Toni Kroos continue to play for Real Madrid? Kroos has stated that he intends to continue playing for Real Madrid for the foreseeable future.
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