Toni Kroos has apologized to Spain midfielder Pedri after the German injured his opponent in Friday's Euro 2024 quarter-final.
Spain won in extra time to set up a semi-final meeting with France, but it was not without injury.
The Barcelona star was forced to come off in the first few minutes after Kroos made two tough challenges to the youngster, who looked upset as he left the field.
But Pedri would have the last laugh as his country booked a place in the next round, despite reports that his tournament was over.
Kroos wrote on Instagram thinking about this incident, he said: “I also want to say something very important: I'm sorry and I'll get well soon Pedri!
“Obviously it was not my intention to hurt you. Hope you get better soon and all the best. He is a great player.”
Kroos and Pedri were fierce rivals in LaLiga, who played for Real Madrid.
Volverás más fuerte, @Pedri. ❤️🩹 pic.twitter.com/DPfdU9ZQCs
— LALIGA (@LaLiga) July 6, 2024
But they will not compete again as Kroos has announced that the Euro games at home will be his last game before retirement.
The 34-year-old shocked the world by announcing that he would hang up his boots but explained that he wanted to come out on top.
He couldn't take his country to one of the finals, but he wasn't too upset, based on his social media posts.
He added: “[September 29, 2023]:my phone rang. Caller: Julian Nagelsmann's request: return to the national team.
“The first thought in my mind: I'm not stupid! The first thought in my heart: f*** yes! The heart decided to know.
“My first thought this morning 7/6/2024: I'm glad I did it. On top of all the sadness and emptiness since the whistle blew yesterday.
“I have seen more in the team than what he has shown in previous years. But I did not expect that it was possible in such a short time to have a real opportunity in the subject and keep up with the best again!
“That's why I'm so proud of what this team has done! And that would be all of Germany too. A special thanks to you who made this home [European Championship] special.
“We've seen it, we've heard it and we've heard it!
“Personally, I would like to thank you for your special warmth and love these past weeks.
“This was very special. And finally a request: Now that Germany has won its beloved child: do not give up!
“The path of this group is still going on. And it helps brutally if you stand by him even in the bad stages!
“Because one thing I can guarantee you: this is a group of great people who are doing everything they can to succeed!”
Source link
