Toni Kroos’ last request to Ancelotti before substitution during Real Madrid vs Betis | OneFootball

Real Madrid’s final league match against Real Betis was an emotional outing for the Merengues as it was also Toni Kroos’ last appearance at Santiago Bernabeu.

The German midfielder started the match alongside Eduardo Camaving and Federico Valverde in the midfield and was eventually replaced in the 87th minute with a standing ovation from the supporters of both sections.

Interestingly enough, a report from Mundo Deportivo has mentioned that Kroos’ departure could have occurred earlier, but he made a special request to Ancelotti, seeking one final favour before exiting.

This moment unfolded during a run of play initiated by Kroos himself, resulting in a foul in favour of Real Madrid near the Betis’ area.

What was Kroos’ request?

It is to be noted that Dani Ceballos had been prepared to replace Kroos for some time, positioned on the sideline awaiting his chance to enter the game.

Toni Kroos made a request to Carlo Ancelotti before being substituted in his final match at Santiago Bernabeu. (Photo by JAVIER SORIANO/AFP via Getty Images)

The opportune moment for the former Arsenal midfielder to join the action arose with the occurrence of the aforementioned foul, as the game was momentarily halted.

However, this anticipated substitution did not materialise immediately. Why? Because of Kroos’ own request.

The German midfielder appealed to Ancelotti, asking for a brief delay in the substitution so that he could take the ensuing free kick. This decision added a memorable touch to the match, as the fans at the Bernabeu stadium fervently cheered for Kroos to take the shot.

Ultimately, Kroos stepped up to take the free kick, nearly scoring a goal, only to be thwarted by the Betis goalkeeper who deflected the ball, resulting in a corner kick instead.

This marked Kroos’ final contribution on the Bernabeu pitch. Subsequently, Ceballos replaced him, initiating the tributes and accolades for the departing German player, who had earned a legendary status at Real Madrid.