Toni Kroos has officially retired from football following Germany’s exit from Euro 2024, where they were defeated 2-1 by Spain after extra time in the quarter-finals.
The hosts of the summer tournament were eliminated after a tense 120 minutes in Stuttgart. Spain took the lead through Dani Olmo in the second half, but Florian Wirtz equalized late in regulation to force extra time. As penalties loomed, Mikel Merino struck in the final minute of extra time to secure Spain’s victory.
This outcome marks the end of Kroos’s illustrious career. The legendary midfielder, who spent the last decade at Real Madrid, had announced in May that he would retire after the European Championships held in his home country. Despite Germany’s strong tournament performance, their hopes of winning silverware were dashed by Spain in the quarter-finals.
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Throughout his remarkable career, Kroos amassed 34 honors for club and country but fell short of claiming the European trophy. Despite speculation about his retirement decision following his outstanding performances during the tournament, Kroos remained resolute in his choice.
Reflecting on his decision on Instagram in May, Kroos stated: “After 10 years [at Madrid], at the end of the season this chapter comes to an end. At the same time, this decision means that my career as an active footballer will end this summer after the Euro championship. As I have always said: Real Madrid is and will be my last club. I am happy and proud that I found the right timing for my decision and was able to choose it on my own.”
Germany, alongside Kroos, missed the opportunity to capture European glory and bring home their first trophy since 1996.