Toni Kroos, a German professional soccer player with a net worth of $25 million, is widely recognized as one of the greatest midfielders of all time. Playing primarily as a central midfielder for the La Liga club Real Madrid, Kroos is celebrated for his vision, passing, creativity, crossing, and set-piece ability. Additionally, he has made significant contributions to the German National Team. This article delves into his life, career, and achievements.
Early Life and Introduction to Soccer
Toni Kroos was born on January 4, 1990, in Greifswald, East Germany. Growing up, Kroos was immersed in the world of soccer, playing alongside his brother, Felix, who also became a professional soccer player. Their father, a youth coach for Hansa Rostock, instilled a love for the game in them from a young age. Although Kroos was not an exceptional student, his dedication to soccer was evident, and he was well-liked by his peers for his behavior and character.
Beginning of a Stellar Career at Bayern Munich
Kroos began his senior club career with Bayern Munich at the age of 17. Initially used sparingly, he opted for an 18-month loan spell at Bayer Leverkusen, where he became a key player. Upon his return to Bayern Munich in 2010, Kroos showcased his enhanced skills and became an integral part of the team. With Bayern, he won two consecutive league titles, a UEFA Champions League title, two DFB-Pokal titles, and earned a spot in the league team of the season three times.
Joining Real Madrid: A New Chapter
In 2014, Kroos joined Real Madrid in a transfer worth over £25 million. Before this move, he had a deal to join Manchester United under manager David Moyes, but the plan fell through after Moyes was replaced by Louis van Gaal. Kroos signed a six-year deal with Real Madrid and became the ninth German player to join the club. His debut match was against Sevilla, where he helped secure a trophy win. Throughout the 2015-2016 season, Kroos was a regular starter and played a crucial role in Real Madrid’s Champions League victory.
Achievements with Real Madrid
Kroos’ time at Real Madrid has been marked by numerous achievements. In 2016, he signed a contract extension until 2022, further cementing his place in the team. He was instrumental in helping Real Madrid defend their Champions League title in the 2016-2017 season and win a third consecutive Champions League title the following year. By December 2018, Kroos had won his record fifth FIFA Club World Cup. In 2019, he extended his contract with Real Madrid until 2023 and continued to deliver stellar performances, including helping the team win the Supercopa in 2020.
International Career with Germany
Kroos has also had a distinguished international career with the German National Team. As a youth player, he shone at the 2007 U-17 World Cup, winning the Golden Ball as the tournament’s best player. He was called up to the senior team in January 2010 and played in the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa. By 2012, he had established himself as a regular starter in Germany’s qualification campaign for UEFA Euro 2012. During the 2014 World Cup, Kroos was a standout performer, helping Germany secure the title and being rated the best player of the tournament. He also participated in the 2018 World Cup, the 2020-2021 UEFA Nations League, and Euro 2020.
Personal Life
Off the field, Kroos leads a fulfilling personal life. He married his long-time girlfriend, Jessica Farber, on June 13, 2015. The couple has two sons and a daughter. They maintain homes in Germany and on the island of Mallorca in Spain, enjoying a balance between their professional and personal lives.
Real Madrid: Continuing the Legacy
In 2021, Kroos won his fifth UEFA Champions League title with Real Madrid, further solidifying his legacy at the club. The following year, he started the season by winning his fourth UEFA Super Cup, marking the last match where he played alongside Casemiro and Modric as the renowned KCM trio. In September 2022, Kroos captained Real Madrid for the first time and received the UEFA Man of the Match award for his performance against Celtic. Despite receiving the first red card of his career in October 2022, Kroos continued to demonstrate his value to the team.
In February 2023, Kroos set a new record by winning his sixth FIFA Club World Cup title. In June 2023, he extended his contract with Real Madrid for another year, ensuring his presence at the club until 2024.
Conclusion
Toni Kroos’ journey from a young soccer enthusiast in East Germany to a world-renowned midfielder is a story of dedication, talent, and success. His achievements with Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, and the German National Team highlight his exceptional skills and impact on the game. As he continues to excel, Kroos remains a pivotal figure in soccer, inspiring fans and aspiring players around the world. With a net worth of $25 million and a career filled with accolades, Toni Kroos’ legacy in soccer is firmly established.
