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Jose Mourinho is sad to see Toni Kroos call time on his career
Jose Mourinho joked that UEFA should make Toni Kroos postpone his retirement after Real Madrid secured another Champions League final victory.
Second half goals from Dani Carvajal and Vinicius Junior saw the Spanish giants clinch an astounding 15th European title at Borussia Dortmund’s expense at Wembley.
Making his final appearance donning a Real Madrid jersey was German midfielder Kroos, who plans to retire after this summer’s Euros. As he exited the game in its waning moments, he was met with a standing ovation, looking visibly moved by the stading ovation he received from supporters.
Sharing his views on TNT Sports, Mourinho beckoned the football governing bodies to intervene and halt Kroos from bowing out while still at his prime. The ex-Manchester United and Chelsea boss joked: “It should be forbidden. FIFA and UEFA, they have so many rules and decisions. Make a decision and stop the guy from retiring!”
In the post-match delight, Kroos dived headfirst into a throng of ecstatic fans, rejoicing in Real Madrid’s latest European conquest. He now joins the ranks of illustrious players that boast six Champions League titles like Dani Carvajal, Luka Modric and Nacho.
Before the final, when asked by CBS Sports about reconsidering his retirement, Kroos firmly dismissed the idea, stating: “No, it’s done. Once I take a decision, it’s done.”
Kroos looked emotional after the matchThe 34-year-old has made an impressive 464 appearances for Real Madrid over a decade, netting 28 goals and providing 98 assists. His legacy at the club is secured as one of their all-time great midfielders, especially noted for his dynamic partnership with Luka Modric.
Real Madrid’s manager Carlo Ancelotti paid tribute to Kroos before the game at Wembley, commenting: “His decision to go is the decision of a great, a decision of character. We are saying farewell to a footballing great who we have been lucky to have here.”
Ancelotti praised Kroos further: “He is a great midfielder with huge quality and fantastic character, with little ego, who always played for the team. We have been lucky to have him for 10 years.”
Reflecting on Kroos’ potential final Champions League appearance, Ancelotti remarked: “Toni could close his career with a Champions League, and at an individual level he deserves it, but his career doesn’t need another Champions League. He has been a fantastic player for 10 years, he had made history with Real Madrid and in world football.”
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