Real Madrid's icon Toni Kroos believes the side can adapt to his absence with time

Toni Kroos, the Real Madrid legend, recently touched upon the possibility of returning from retirement during an episode of the Einfach mal Luppen podcast, which he co-hosts with his brother Felix. At 34, he surprised many by announcing his retirement earlier this year after his final game in Madrid's iconic white shirt, a memorable Champions League final victory over Borussia Dortmund at Wembley back in June.

The midfielder announced his retirement after Germany's defeat by eventual champions Spain at the Euros, and subsequent elimination from the quarter-finals on home soil. With the 2024/2025 club season in full swing, Real Madrid is facing challenges in the midfield following his departure. Despite this, Kroos has made it clear that he is unlikely to reconsider his decision to retire.

Kroos's Take On Madrid's Form

He pointed out that even with him in the lineup, the team encountered difficulties on numerous occasions. While acknowledging the current predicament, he admitted that the team's performances were not always exceptional. He recalled the team's struggles to adapt to his style of play.

"People always say, and it's not true, that with me we won all the games 4-0. Things don't look good, for sure, but we didn't always play wonderfully either. We often had problems with myself [playing], that can't be forgotten," he stated.

He stressed that Real Madrid managed to adjust to the departure of icons like Cristiano Ronaldo and Sergio Ramos. The team demonstrated the ability to adapt, winning two Champions League titles. He anticipates a similar transformation this time. While acknowledging that it may take some time for the team to adapt without them, he expressed confidence in the abilities of the current players.

"Madrid adapted when Cristiano [Ronaldo] was not there, [Sergio] Ramos... who are absolute legends. Madrid knew how to adapt over time and continue to win, we won two Champions League without them. The same thing will happen to me. It may take a while for them to adapt, but the players there are very good," he added