What legends say about Toni Kroos speaks volumes about his status as a midfield maestro. With an impressive tally of 6 UEFA Champions League titles (4 with Real Madrid, 2 with Bayern Munich) and numerous domestic honours, Kroos has proven himself on football’s grandest stages.
Renowned figures in the footballing world have heaped praise upon Kroos for his exceptional skills and impact on the game. Legends like Paul Scholes and Xavi Hernandez regard him as one of the best midfielders in the world, with Scholes even emulating Kroos’s style in the latter stages of his own career.
Kroos’ journey to success began at Bayern Munich, where he played a crucial role in securing 4 Bundesliga championships and a FIFA Club World Cup. Since joining Real Madrid in 2014, he has elevated his game to new heights, adding 4 more Champions League triumphs to his name and then solidifying his place among the elite.
Also, His passing accuracy of over 90% throughout his career showcases his exceptional playmaking abilities, while his tactical awareness sets him apart. The likes of Zinedine Zidane and Pep Guardiola have praised Kroos for his intelligence, composure in high-pressure situations, and ability to make crucial contributions when it matters most.
Even on the international stage, Kroos has left an indelible mark. Joachim Low, the former German national team coach, admires Kroos for his vision and positional sense, highlighting his role as a role model for aspiring footballers.
As we delve into what legends say about Toni Kroos, it becomes evident that his journey is a testament to his remarkable talent, dedication, and impact on the world of football.
Paul Scholes
Paul Scholes, a former Manchester United midfield maestro, once expressed his admiration for Toni Kroos, highlighting the impact Kroos has had on his own game.
Scholes stated, “When I neared the end of my career, I followed him (Kroos) closely and tried to play like him. He is one of the best midfield masterminds in the world.”
Scholes’ quote signifies the immense respect he holds for Kroos and the influence Kroos has had on his own playing style. As a highly regarded figure in the footballing world, Scholes recognizes Kroos as a player who possesses exceptional qualities in the midfield. By mentioning that he tried to emulate Kroos towards the end of his career, Scholes acknowledges the significant impact Kroos has made on the art of midfield play.
The term “mastermind” used by Scholes encapsulates Kroos’ ability to control and orchestrate the game from the centre of the pitch. It suggests that Kroos possesses not only a technical brilliance but also a profound understanding of the tactical aspects of the game. This acknowledgement from Scholes, who is widely regarded as one of the finest midfielders of his generation, further solidifies Kroos’ status as an extraordinary player.
Scholes’ words also reflect the influence Kroos has had beyond his own team and country, transcending borders and inspiring players from different footballing backgrounds. The fact that an iconic figure like Scholes actively studied Kroos’ game and sought to incorporate aspects of it into his own playing style speaks volumes about Kroos’ impact on the modern midfield position.
Xavi
The legendary former Barcelona midfielder, Xavi Hernandez, has spoken highly of Toni Kroos, drawing parallels between their styles of play.
Xavi once stated, “I think he’s the engine of the Real Madrid team. He has a style of play that reminds me a lot of myself. He’s also my successor on the football field.”
Xavi’s quote exemplifies the immense respect he has for Kroos and the impact he believes Kroos has on Real Madrid’s performance. By referring to Kroos as the “engine” of the team, Xavi acknowledges Kroos’ vital role in driving Real Madrid’s midfield and orchestrating their gameplay. This highlights Kroos’ influence in controlling the tempo and rhythm of the team’s attacks, much like Xavi himself did for Barcelona during his prime.
Moreover, Xavi’s comparison of Kroos’ style of play to his own underscores the similarities in their approach to the game. Xavi was renowned for his exceptional vision, precise passing, and ability to dictate the flow of play. By drawing a parallel between himself and Kroos, Xavi recognizes Kroos’ ability to read the game, make intelligent decisions, and distribute the ball effectively. It’s a testament to Kroos’ technical prowess and tactical understanding.
The statement “He’s also my successor on the football field” further emphasizes Xavi’s belief in Kroos’ abilities and the legacy he is carrying forward. Xavi, a revered figure in the world of football, sees Kroos as a player who can fill the void left by his own retirement. This recognition from a player of Xavi’s calibre speaks volumes about Kroos’ exceptional qualities and the impact he has made on the footballing landscape.
Lothar Matthaeus
Lothar Matthaeus, a legendary figure in German football and the captain of the 1990 World Cup-winning team, has heaped praise on Toni Kroos, recognizing his leadership qualities and contribution to the German national team. Matthaeus once remarked, “He’s the leader of the German National Team. First, we had Franz Beckenbauer, now we have King Toni Kroos.”
Matthaeus’ quote showcases the high regard in which he holds Kroos and the impact Kroos has had on the German national team. By referring to Kroos as the leader, Matthaeus acknowledges Kroos’ ability to take charge, dictate the team’s play, and inspire his teammates. This signifies Kroos’ influence beyond his technical skills, highlighting his leadership qualities and his ability to guide and motivate the team on the field.
The comparison to Franz Beckenbauer, one of the most iconic figures in German football history, further underscores Kroos’ significance in the national team setup. Beckenbauer, known as “Der Kaiser,” was revered for his leadership, vision, and ability to shape the game. By drawing a parallel between Kroos and Beckenbauer, Matthaeus implies that Kroos has assumed a similarly influential role within the team, becoming a pivotal figure in German football.
The use of the moniker “King Toni Kroos” by Matthaeus emphasizes the immense respect and admiration he has for Kroos. It signifies Kroos’ authority and supremacy on the pitch, as well as his ability to dominate and dictate the game with his exceptional skills. This title bestowed upon Kroos by Matthaeus reflects his belief that Kroos is a player of exceptional calibre and importance, capable of leading the team to success.
Jupp Heynckes
Jupp Heynckes, a highly respected figure in German football and former Bayern Munich manager, has shared his admiration for Toni Kroos, highlighting his development into a world-class player at Real Madrid. Heynckes once expressed, “Toni Kroos is a strategist. He has developed into a world-class player at Real Madrid, playing the way any coach wants his players to play.”
Heynckes’ quote showcases his appreciation for Kroos’ tactical intelligence and his ability to make strategic decisions on the pitch. By referring to Kroos as a strategist, Heynckes acknowledges his exceptional understanding of the game and his capability to analyze situations and make calculated moves. This underlines Kroos’ importance in dictating the flow of play and orchestrating the team’s movements.
Moreover, Heynckes highlights Kroos’ development into a world-class player during his time at Real Madrid. This acknowledgement signifies the significant progress Kroos has made in his career and the level of excellence he has achieved at one of the world’s top clubs. Heynckes’ words serve as a testament to Kroos’ dedication, hard work, and continuous improvement as a player.
The statement, “playing the way any coach wants his players to play,” further emphasizes Kroos’ qualities as an ideal player from a coach’s perspective. It suggests that Kroos possesses the attributes that make him an asset to any team, such as his technical proficiency, vision, and ability to execute the coach’s instructions effectively. Heynckes’ quote thus underscores Kroos’ versatility and adaptability on the field, making him a valuable asset for both club and country.
Pep Guardiola
Pep Guardiola, one of the most renowned and successful football managers in the world, has showered Toni Kroos with praise, highlighting his intelligence, composure, and bravery in crucial moments. Guardiola once stated, “Kroos is a very intelligent, very brainy, and very calm player. He is the bravest in the most difficult moments.”
Guardiola’s quote showcases his admiration for Kroos’ mental attributes and his ability to make smart decisions on the field. By describing Kroos as intelligent and brainy, Guardiola acknowledges Kroos’ exceptional footballing IQ and his astute understanding of the game. This indicates that Kroos possesses the ability to read the game, anticipate situations, and make informed choices, making him a reliable presence in the midfield.
Furthermore, Guardiola highlights Kroos’ composure, emphasizing his ability to maintain a calm and composed demeanour even in high-pressure situations. This quality is crucial for a player in the midfield, as it allows them to make accurate decisions and execute precise passes under challenging circumstances. Kroos’ composure serves as a foundation for his exceptional ball control and distribution skills.
Guardiola’s mention of Kroos’ bravery in the most difficult moments showcases his trust in Kroos’ ability to step up and perform when the stakes are high. It implies that Kroos possesses the courage to take responsibility and make important contributions to the team’s success. This bravery is a testament to Kroos’ mental strength and his ability to thrive in crucial moments.
Zinedine Zidane
Zinedine Zidane, a footballing legend and former Real Madrid player and manager, has expressed his deep admiration for Toni Kroos, highlighting the exceptional nature of his training sessions and his pride in having coached a player of Kroos’ calibre. Zidane once stated, “I love to watch Toni Kroos train. I love to be there at his training sessions. They are exceptional. I’m proud that I trained a player like Toni Kroos.”
Zidane’s quote reveals his genuine appreciation for Kroos’ training methods and the impact he has on the training sessions. By expressing his love for watching Kroos train and his enjoyment of being present during the sessions, Zidane emphasizes the unique qualities that Kroos brings to the training ground. This suggests that Kroos possesses a level of professionalism, dedication, and excellence that is truly inspiring to witness.
The use of the term “exceptional” to describe Kroos’ training sessions further emphasizes the remarkable nature of his work ethic and the standards he sets for himself. It suggests that Kroos goes above and beyond, pushing his limits and constantly seeking improvement. Zidane’s choice of words also reflects the high level of respect and admiration he holds for Kroos’ commitment to his craft.
Additionally, Zidane expresses his pride in having had the opportunity to coach a player of Kroos’ calibre. This sentiment underscores the significance of Kroos as a player and the impact he has had on Zidane’s coaching career. Zidane’s pride in training Kroos indicates that he recognizes Kroos’ exceptional abilities and the value he brings to the team.
Joachim Low
Joachim Low, the former manager of the German national team, has praised Toni Kroos for his exceptional vision, sense of positioning on the pitch, and his role model status within the team. Low stated, “Toni Kroos has a great vision and a sense of where he is on the pitch. He’s a role model for the rest of the team with the way he approaches his job.”
Low’s quote highlights Kroos’ exceptional vision, indicating his ability to assess the field and identify opportunities for passes and movements. Kroos’ vision allows him to orchestrate the team’s play, making him a key contributor to their success. Additionally, Low mentions Kroos’ sense of positioning, suggesting that he understands the optimal spaces to occupy on the pitch to influence the game effectively.
Moreover, Low acknowledges Kroos’ role model status within the team, emphasizing the positive influence he has on his teammates. Kroos’ approach to his job serves as an inspiration to others, demonstrating his professionalism, work ethic, and dedication to the game. As a role model, Kroos sets high standards for his teammates to follow, contributing to the team’s overall performance and success.
Luka Modric
Luka Modric, a fellow Real Madrid teammate and highly respected midfielder himself, has recognized Toni Kroos as an exceptional player within the club. Modric remarked, “At Real Madrid, you’re not allowed to be less than good, and Kroos is an exceptional player. He looks like he’s playing in slow motion.”
Modric’s quote highlights Kroos’ exceptional skills and contributions to Real Madrid. By stating that at Real Madrid, anything less than being good is not acceptable, Modric emphasizes the high standards set by the club. In this context, Modric acknowledges Kroos as a player who consistently meets and exceeds these expectations, showcasing his remarkable abilities on the field.
The mention of Kroos appearing to play in slow motion suggests a level of control and calmness in his gameplay. This observation speaks to Kroos’ technical proficiency, poise, and ability to dictate the rhythm of the game. Kroos’ composure and seemingly effortless style of play allows him to make precise passes, control the tempo, and influence the flow of the match.
Modric’s recognition of Kroos’ exceptional nature at Real Madrid further solidifies the German midfielder’s importance to the team. It indicates that Kroos is highly regarded and respected by his peers, including someone of Modric’s stature, and is seen as a key contributor to the team’s success.
Florentino Perez
Florentino Perez, the president of Real Madrid, has described Toni Kroos as a player with a captivating style that attracts spectators to the stadium. Perez stated, “Kroos has a style that makes people want to go to a stadium to watch him. For me, he’s been one of those players that was born to play for Real Madrid.”
Perez’s quote highlights Kroos’ captivating playing style, suggesting that his performances on the field have a mesmerizing effect on spectators. This indicates that Kroos possesses qualities that make him stand out and create excitement among fans. Perez’s admiration for Kroos’ style suggests that his contributions on the pitch go beyond mere statistics, captivating the audience with his technical prowess and footballing artistry.
Furthermore, Perez emphasizes that Kroos was destined to play for Real Madrid. This statement highlights Kroos’ seamless fit within the club’s footballing philosophy and the belief that he embodies the values and qualities associated with Real Madrid’s rich history. Perez’s affirmation of Kroos’ suitability for Real Madrid underscores the player’s importance to the club and the impact he has made during his time there.
Sergio Ramos
Sergio Ramos, the former Real Madrid captain and defensive stalwart, recognizes Toni Kroos as an indispensable member of the team who brings balance and provides solutions within their gameplay. Ramos stated, “He is an indispensable member of our team who creates the right balance. From the start, he’s been awesome. He delivers solutions within our game and is an extraordinary passer who has assisted many of my headed goals.”
Ramos’ quote highlights Kroos’ crucial role within the team and his ability to bring balance to their gameplay. The term “indispensable” indicates that Kroos is considered vital and irreplaceable in the team’s setup. His contributions are seen as crucial for maintaining the team’s equilibrium and ensuring its overall success.
Moreover, Ramos praises Kroos for his ability to deliver solutions within their game. This implies that Kroos has a strong tactical understanding and possesses the vision to identify and execute the right passes or decisions to overcome challenges during matches. This quality further enhances his value to the team, as he becomes a reliable source of creativity and problem-solving on the pitch.
Ramos also highlights Kroos’ exceptional passing ability, specifically mentioning his role in assisting Ramos’ headed goals. This speaks to Kroos’ accuracy and precision in delivering crosses or through balls that lead to goal-scoring opportunities. His exceptional passing skills contribute to the team’s attacking prowess and overall effectiveness in creating goal-scoring chances.
Jerome Boateng
Jerome Boateng, a former Bayern Munich and German national team player, has praised Toni Kroos for his technical excellence and versatility on the pitch. Boateng stated, “Technically speaking, he’s almost perfect. He can play with both his left and right feet, set the tempo of the play, and can spray precise diagonal passes with ease.”
Boateng’s quote highlights Kroos’ exceptional technical abilities and versatility. By describing him as “almost perfect” technically, Boateng emphasizes Kroos’ high level of skill and proficiency in various aspects of the game. Kroos’ ability to use both his left and right feet effectively showcases his ambidexterity, allowing him to be comfortable in any situation on the pitch.
Additionally, Boateng mentions Kroos’ role in setting the tempo of play, indicating his ability to control and dictate the rhythm of the game. This attribute is crucial in maintaining possession, orchestrating attacks, and controlling the flow of the match. Kroos’ capability to dictate the pace demonstrates his understanding of the game and his effectiveness in influencing the team’s style of play.
Casemiro
Another ex-Real Madrid teammate, Casemiro, considers Toni Kroos as one of the most important players at the club who manages the ball and controls the team’s rhythm.
Casemiro states, “Real Madrid matches always go in Toni Kroos’ rhythm. He manages the ball and the rhythm with which we play.”
Casemiro’s quote highlights Kroos’ pivotal role in orchestrating the team’s style of play. By mentioning that Real Madrid matches follow Kroos’ rhythm, Casemiro indicates that Kroos sets the tempo and dictates the flow of the game. Kroos’ ability to control the ball and manage its distribution allows the team to maintain possession and effectively dictate the pace of the match.
Furthermore, Casemiro acknowledges Kroos’ influence on the team’s rhythm, suggesting that he plays a crucial part in establishing the desired tempo and cadence of their gameplay. Kroos’ ability to manage the ball and dictate the team’s rhythm showcases his composure, tactical understanding, and leadership on the pitch.
Ottmar Hitzfeld
Ottmar Hitzfeld, the former Bayern Munich manager, recognizes Toni Kroos as a passionate footballer with great instinct. Hitzfeld states, “He is a passionate footballer with great instinct. He always takes the right decision on the pitch, and you don’t have to tell him what to do.”
Hitzfeld’s quote highlights Kroos’ passion for the game and his natural footballing instincts. Describing Kroos as a passionate footballer suggests that he approaches the game with enthusiasm, dedication, and a genuine love for playing football. This passion likely fuels his commitment and drive to constantly improve and excel on the pitch.
Moreover, Hitzfeld emphasizes Kroos’ ability to make the right decisions during matches. This indicates Kroos’ exceptional decision-making skills, awareness of his surroundings, and understanding of the game’s dynamics. Kroos’ intuitive decision-making allows him to anticipate situations, choose the best course of action, and contribute positively to his team’s performance.
Hitzfeld further highlights Kroos’ independence and self-reliance on the pitch by stating that there is no need to provide him with instructions. This suggests that Kroos possesses a high level of footballing intelligence, tactical understanding, and the ability to adapt to different game situations. His capability to make sound decisions without explicit guidance showcases his maturity and leadership qualities on the field.
Franck Ribery
Franck Ribery, the former Bayern Munich teammate of Toni Kroos, expressed his preference for Kroos to play as a number 10 and praised his ball possession and passing skills. Ribery stated, “It’s better for me when Toni Kroos plays as a number 10… He gives good passes. The number 10, for me, is Toni Kroos.”
Ribery’s quote highlights his belief that Kroos excels in the number 10 role, which is typically associated with creativity and playmaking. By expressing his preference for Kroos in this position, Ribery suggests that Kroos possesses the qualities necessary to be effective as a central attacking midfielder. Ribery likely values Kroos’ vision, ability to control the game, and capacity to unlock defences with his passing and playmaking skills.
Additionally, Ribery commends Kroos for his ability to deliver good passes. This speaks to Kroos’ accuracy, precision, and ability to distribute the ball effectively. Kroos’ passing skills are recognized by Ribery as an asset that enhances the team’s attacking capabilities and creates scoring opportunities.
Conclusion
The words of legends speak volumes about Toni Kroos and his impact on the world of football. Praised by the likes of Paul Scholes, Xavi Hernandez, Zinedine Zidane, and Pep Guardiola, Kroos is recognized as one of the finest midfielders of his generation.
With an impressive trophy haul, including 6 UEFA Champions League titles, his success at both Bayern Munich and Real Madrid is undeniable. His exceptional passing accuracy and tactical awareness have earned him admiration and respect from his peers and coaches alike.
As SoccerHint reflects on what legends say about Toni Kroos, it becomes clear that he has left an indelible mark on the game and solidified his place among football’s elite.
