Kroos releases emotional statement after officially retiring from football

Germany's 2-1 extra-time defeat to Spain in the quarter-finals of Euro 2024 on Friday proved to be the final match of Toni Kroos' illustrious career, as the midfielder had previously announced that he would retire after the tournament.

Kroos, who opted to come out of international retirement for the Euros, took to Instagram to release an emotional statement on his decision to hang up his boots the day after the defeat.

See the full translation from German below.

"My phone rang on 09/29/2023. Caller: Julian Nagelsmann. Request: Return to the national team. The first thought in my head: I'm not stupid! First thought in my heart: Hell, yeah! As we all know, the heart decides.

"My first thought this morning, 06.07.2024: I'm glad I did it. Despite all the sadness and emptiness since the final whistle yesterday. I've always seen more in the team than what they've shown in the last few years. But I didn't expect that in such a short time it would be possible to have a realistic chance of winning the title and to be back among the best! So I'm very proud of what this team has achieved! And all of Germany can be again.

"A special thank you to all of you out there who made this European Championship so special. We saw you, we experienced you, we felt you! On a personal level, I would like to thank you for the very special warmth and affection over the past few weeks. That has been very special.

"And finally, a request: Now that Germany has won back its favorite child, please don't let it go! This team's journey continues. And it helps a lot if you stick by them, even in bad times! Because I can assure you of one thing: This is a group of great people who will give everything to be successful! Germany is great again! 🖤❤️💛

"I would also like to say something very important: Sorry and get well soon to Pedri! Of course it was not my intention to hurt you. A quick recovery and all the best. You are a great player."