Tony Kroos retirement: Germany's World Cup winner hangs his boots after Euro 2020 debacle against England

Tony Kroos retirement: Germany's World Cup winner hangs his boots after Euro 2020 debacle against England

FPJ Web DeskUpdated: Friday, July 02, 2021, 06:41 PM IST
article-image
Germany's WC winner Tony Kroos announces retirement from international football |

Germany midfielder Toni Kroos has announced his retirement from international football after his team's exit from the European Championship, the 31-year-old said on Instagram.

The 2014 World Cup winner earned 106 caps for his country, contributing 17 goals and 19 assists.

Kroos said it was clear to him "for a long time" that he would not be available for the World Cup in Qatar next year.

He said his priority now would be to focus on his club career with Real Madrid and spending time with his family.

A statement from Kroos on his social media channels reads: "I've played for Germany 106 times. There won't be another time.

"I would have dearly wished, and I gave everything again, that there would have been 109 internationals in the end and that this one big title, the European Championship, would have been added at the end.

"I had made the decision to quit after this tournament for a long time. It had been clear to me for a long time that I would not be available for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.

"Mainly because I want to focus fully on my goals with Real Madrid for the next few years. In addition, from now on I will deliberately allow myself breaks that have not existed as a national player for eleven years.

"And moreover, as a husband and dad, I would also like to be there for my wife and three children.

"It was a great honour for me to be able to wear this jersey for such a long period of time. I did it with pride and passion.

"Thanks to all fans and supporters who carried and supported me with their applause and cheers. And thanks to all the critics for their extra motivation.

"At the very end I would like to say thank you very much to Jogi Low. He made me a national player and world champion. He trusted me. We have written a success story for a long time.

"It was an honor for me, doing it well - and good luck and success to Hansi Flick."

Kroos' senior international debut came in a meeting with Argentina in March 2010.

He would go on to appear at three World Cup finals, including a triumphant campaign in 2014, along with three European Championships.

RECENT STORIES

'I May Be Leaving Real Madrid But..': Lucas Vasquez Pens Emotional Note After Spanish Club Announces...

'I May Be Leaving Real Madrid But..': Lucas Vasquez Pens Emotional Note After Spanish Club Announces...

Video: Madhya Pradesh CM Mohan Yadav Visits La Liga Office As Part Of His Three-Day Investment Tour...

Video: Madhya Pradesh CM Mohan Yadav Visits La Liga Office As Part Of His Three-Day Investment Tour...

IND Vs ENG, 3rd Test: Was Jitesh Sharma Denied Entry At Lord's Cricket Stadium? Dinesh Karthik...

IND Vs ENG, 3rd Test: Was Jitesh Sharma Denied Entry At Lord's Cricket Stadium? Dinesh Karthik...

World Championship Of Legends 2025: All You Need To Know About Season 2 Of Star-Studded Tournament

World Championship Of Legends 2025: All You Need To Know About Season 2 Of Star-Studded Tournament

'Humne Socha Tha...': Shivam Dube Shares Hilarious Video To Celebrate Fourth Wedding Anniversary...

'Humne Socha Tha...': Shivam Dube Shares Hilarious Video To Celebrate Fourth Wedding Anniversary...