Real Madrid have been hit by a massive blow today as Toni Kroos has announced his decision to retire after the 2024 European Championship.
While there were initially reports claiming that he had agreed to sign an extension at the Santiago Bernabeu, it seems as if the German has now changed his mind.
This will leave a massive gaping hole in Madrid’s midfield, who were not preparing to shell out money on a midfielder next season, but might have to, now, especially with Dani Ceballos also expected to leave the club on a free transfer.
It also raises the questions, what will be the midfield trident moving into next season, and who will inherit Kroos’ role in the centre of the park? While that is still unclear, it seems Federico Valverde is a candidate for the gig.
According to reports from Alberto Pereiro, Federico Valverde will take the #8 jersey next season after Toni Kroos leaves the club.
Valverde has donned the #15 ever since he got a chance with the Real Madrid senior team during the 2018/19 season, and has also spoken about making the jersey iconic at the club.
He also suggested recently that one of the reasons he wants to win the Champions League this season because it would be Madrid’s 15th triumph in the competition.
However, at the same time, this should not come as a surprise as the Uruguayan has also spoken about idolising Kroos on a number of occasions.
Madrid have two more contenders for the kit next season in case Valverde decides to retain his #15 jersey – Aurelien Tchouameni and Eduardo Camavinga.
The former wears #18 right now, but used to wear the #8 while playing for AS Monaco during his last season with the Ligue 1 giants.
Camavinga, on the other hand, represented the #10 with State Rennais, but could be looking to take over the #8 from Kroos next season.
Meanwhile, Luka Modric could be an outside shout for the jersey, as well, especially if he is forced to give up the #10 for Kylian Mbappe.
Should he stay at the club for another season, the Croatian could don his partner-in-crime’s jersey number as a homage for possibly his last season in Madrid, or perhaps even as a footballer.