Toni Kroos, one of the most pivotal figures in Real Madrid’s midfield for nearly a decade, has recently opened up about his absence from the current Real Madrid setup and how it has coincided with the club’s recent struggles. As speculation swirls around whether his absence has led to the team’s dip in form, the former Germany international made it clear that Real Madrid has always adapted to changes, and his case will be no different.
Kroos, who has been an indispensable part of Real Madrid’s incredible successes—including multiple Champions League triumphs—addressed the notion that his absence was responsible for the club’s current challenges. “People always pretend that Real Madrid won all the games 4-0 with me… that’s wrong,” he asserted, seeking to remind fans that even during his tenure, the team had its share of difficult moments. He highlighted that while Real Madrid has struggled recently, they have also faced similar challenges while he was on the field.
Real Madrid’s History of Adapting
In Kroos’ view, Real Madrid has always found a way to adjust to the departure of key players, no matter how iconic they were. He pointed to the departures of Cristiano Ronaldo and Sergio Ramos—two of the club’s greatest legends—as examples of how the club has managed to continue winning even after losing irreplaceable talents. “Real Madrid has adapted when Cristiano left, when Sergio Ramos left… they’ve always adapted and stayed winning,” Kroos explained. His words reflect a deep understanding of the club’s culture and resilience, knowing that no player is ever bigger than the team, not even him.
Kroos emphasized that Real Madrid went on to win two Champions League titles even after Ronaldo and Ramos left, proving that while individuals play a significant role, the club’s collective strength always prevails. Kroos, now retired from international football, firmly believes that the same will happen once he fully transitions out of the starting lineup.
A Balanced Perspective on His Role
Despite being hailed as the “glue” that held Real Madrid’s midfield together, Kroos remains humble about his influence on the team. “We’ve often struggled with me, you can’t forget that,” he added, pushing back against the idea that his presence guaranteed flawless performances from the team. While fans and pundits alike might point to the current struggles as a sign of his importance, Kroos sought to remind them that no era is without its challenges, even with the best players on the pitch.
Kroos’ comments reflect a mature and realistic outlook on the highs and lows of elite football. While acknowledging the difficulties Real Madrid is facing, he sees them as a natural part of the game, and not something that can be solely attributed to his absence. He has faith that, just like they have done in the past, Real Madrid will overcome the challenges and adapt to the new phase of their evolution.
Real Madrid’s Current Struggles
Real Madrid, a club synonymous with winning, has experienced a dip in form this season, leading to increasing scrutiny of the players and coaching staff. While Kroos’ absence has been noted, the club is also navigating injuries, a transition phase, and tactical adjustments under manager Carlo Ancelotti. Kroos’ comments serve as a reminder that even the most successful clubs go through periods of rebuilding and recalibration, and that it’s premature to place the blame solely on one player’s absence.
In conclusion, while Toni Kroos acknowledges that Real Madrid is facing difficulties, he remains confident that the club will continue to adapt and thrive as it has done throughout its illustrious history. His words reflect a balanced and forward-thinking approach, emphasizing that while individuals can leave their mark, the club’s winning mentality and resilience will always prevail.