Toni Kroos was one of Florentino Perez’s most profitable deals. He arrived eight seasons ago (14-15) for 25 million euros and was the magic wand that distributed the match in the center of the Madrid stadium, mixing perfectly with Modric and Casemiro, each with different specific characteristics. However, his final season was erratic, falling short of expectations despite the fact that he was always up to the task when his team needed him
On his way to turning 33, the German quit his country to focus fully on his team. Keep the strength and don’t go over the miles to do your best, but this hasn’t been his best season. Cross’s performance and accuracy declined in his surgical passes. With the ball he is still the white “Caesar”, but he suffered when he had to work in defense
Kroos postponed his start to the season by a month and a half. As he weathered the injury that was dragging him down from the previous season, it was hard for him to gain the rhythm of his teammates and eventually become a staple in Ancelotti’s schemes. Of the 40 matches he started (he played 56 for Real Madrid), he finished 22 matches, occupying eighth place in the minutes standings of the group behind Modric and Casemiro. He was the weakest link of the three midfielders, although when he was on the field he continued to lead the team’s game
Valverde’s explosion, Camavinga’s growth and the signing of Chuamini would mean direct competition not only for the Germans, but for the fire-resistant trio in the midfield that made history. Age shrinks and youth pushes, although experience is a testament. Ancelotti will certainly continue to give him streaks, but his flame will be extinguished when he has a contract until 2023. His continuity in the team will depend on his performance, and he will have to imitate Modric and earn his renewal for another season on the pitch
