Luka Modric pays tribute to Toni Kroos following his retirement announcement

Luka Modric has paid tribute to his long-time Real Madrid teammate Toni Kroos following the German midfielder's decision to retire after this summer's Euros.

Kroos and Modric have formed the greatest midfield partnership over the last 10 years, playing more than 330 games and winning 21 trophies together in that time.

There is still a chance for the duo to add 22 pieces of silverware to that collection there Los Blancos will face Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League final at Wembley on June 1.

Both of these players will then head to the European Championship which will be held in Germany with their national teams.

However, for Kroos, that will be his last game as a player, as the 34-year-old announced on Tuesday that he will be hanging up his socks following the tournament.

“Real Madrid CF announces that Toni Kroos has decided to end his career as a professional footballer after Euro 2024,” the club's statement read.

“Real Madrid wants to express its gratitude and love to Toni Kroos, a player who is already part of the history of Real Madrid and one of the legends of our club and world football.

Modric pays tribute to “friend” Kroos

Given their close connection on the pitch, Modric is likely to feel Kroos' retirement more than most.

The Croatian – himself 38 years old and perhaps facing an uncertain future – took to social media to pay tribute to his central midfielder, hailing Kroos as a “unique and special” player.

“Dear Toni, it's hard for me to write these words. The football world is sad because there is football history going, and I admit that I am very sad too. “My friend, you are a legend of this game and a legend of Real Madrid,” wrote Modric on Instagram.

“I really enjoyed playing with you. It was truly an honor to share the Real Madrid stadium with you. He has the qualities that make him a unique and special player, and there will never be another Toni Kroos.

“An unforgettable European night, the headlines, the magic of the Bernabéu…. we will never forget this golden era in the club of our lives.

“You have won everything but there is one thing left. We met on the 15th.

“I will miss you my friend.

If Germany can progress to the domestic stage this summer, Kroos' last match will be the European Championship final at the Olympiastadion in Berlin on July 14.