Carlo Ancelotti pays tribute to Toni Kroos but reveals how Real Madrid will move past absence | OneFootball

Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti has praised Toni Kroos‘ bravery in taking the decision to retire from the game at the age of 34, despite clearly having plenty left in the tank to continue playing at the top level.

“Veteran players, legends, have to choose their destiny,” Ancelotti explained.

“Toni has made that decision and we have to respect it. We have to say goodbye to him as best we can. I respect his decision, it is that of a man with balls, that is the reality. Replacing someone like that is almost impossible, but this squad has resources in the young people to take responsibility and follow the path set over the last ten years.”

Yet he was optimistic about the future even without him, citing that the key to Real Madrid’s continued success was the dressing room atmosphere.

“Every year they lose pieces, but they do not lose the atmosphere, the attitude and the commitment, they have to maintain the same. clean environment there is. It depends on each person, but I don’t think it was a complicated decision for him.”

Ancelotti was asked whether he tried to change Kroos’ mind on the decision.

“We discussed it. He was convinced. Saying goodbye like this would be ideal. Then you have to have the courage to do it and I have a lot of respect for what he has done.”

In terms of a replacement, the Italian was just as stumped as the rest of us, even if they do have quality come in for him.

“One of his technical qualities is very difficult to find, it is not what we are thinking about. We are thinking about preparing for the final to win it. Trying to change his mind was not easy. There were no tears.”

Part of the reason he will be so hard to replace is because of his uniqueness, something Ancelotti also found words for.

“A very high and very continuous performance, without dips. One of the few who knows how to manage the timing of the games with possession. His success in passing is unique. He has contributed a lot to football, he is one of the best midfielders in the game history.”

Kroos will have a sold out Santiago Bernabeu on Saturday night in which to say goodbye to the Real Madrid fans before the serious business of the Champions League final, and his final match for the club.