Former Real Madrid comrades Toni Kroos and Joselu are set to clash as Spain and Germany lock horns in the Euro 2024 quarterfinals.
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Last playing under Carlo Ancelotti’s guidance at Los Blancos, both Kroos and Joselu celebrated their final season with notable victories in the Champions League and LaLiga. Already declaring this UEFA tournament as his swan song, 34-year-old Kroos looks forward to a gripping quarterfinal showdown in Stuttgart.
Joselu, undeterred by nostalgia, is determined to facilitate Kroos’ retirement in their upcoming duel. “Regrettably, we might hasten Toni’s retirement come Friday, yet victory remains our prime objective,” Joselu disclosed during Wednesday’s press briefing.
“Personal affiliations aside, we must focus. Toni is dear to us, but Friday should mark his finale,” he added.
Kroos bid Real Madrid adieu post their Champions League triumph over Borussia Dortmund last May. The seasoned midfielder has since shown formidable form at the Euros, achieving an impressive 95% pass completion rate.
His stats are notable—having not merely attempted over 300 passes but also delivered the most line-breaking passes at the tournament, numbering 125. “Playing alongside him was a privilege. Toni embodies the essence of Real Madrid and upholds its values fervently,” Joselu reflected.
Kroos remains a pillar for both Germany and his former club, necessitating vigilant opposition, Joselu iterated.
Historically, Germany’s track resume against Spain on home turf stands robust, only suffering one loss back in a 1935 friendly, with an undefeated streak in the subsequent eight encounters. Despite this, the scales seem balanced as Spain holds an unbeaten record in their last four major tournament matchups against Germany.
For Joselu, the upcoming match in Stuttgart also bears personal significance, reminding him of his origins and youthful days watching football in the city. “It’s more than a game; it’s a poignant homecoming. My mother frequented Stuttgart’s matches; now I represent my nation on the same soil,” he celebrated.
In embracing every moment on the pitch, Joselu epitomizes the pinnacle of a footballer’s ambitions.
