Toni Kroos has been named Germany’s Footballer of the Year once again, just as he wraps up his professional journey. The announcement comes following the conclusion of Euro 2024, where the 34-year-old midfielder played his final match in a quarter-final clash against Spain.
Kroos topped the Kicker Magazine poll, edging out Bayer Leverkusen’s Florian Wirtz and Granit Xhaka. Reflecting on the accolade, Kroos expressed his appreciation, stating, “This result is a nice confirmation and great recognition for what I have achieved over the past year.”
He emphasised that this honor is not a token of sympathy for his retirement but a recognition of his performance on the field. “And even though it will be the last time I am chosen, it is an honour that is not based on thanks to a player who is ending his career. It’s not a pity award, it has nothing to do with age or the end of a career, but simply with performance on the pitch – at least I hope that’s the case.”
The Real Madrid star, who secured his sixth Champions League title earlier this year, had a significant impact on the German national team. Coach Julian Nagelsmann persuaded Kroos to rejoin the squad at the start of the year, and his presence bolstered the team’s midfield with a blend of experience and composure.
In addition to Kroos’s accolade, Xabi Alonso, the Leverkusen coach who guided his team to their first-ever Bundesliga title in May, has been named Coach of the Year. Alonso’s leadership and tactical acumen were pivotal in Leverkusen’s historic triumph.
Source : dpa
Frederico Gambarini|dpa
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