Toni Kroos has officially retired from football following Germany's elimination from Euro 2024 by Spain.
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00:00On the other hand, I'm not really afraid, because it was a decision that I, thank God, made myself, without anyone pushing me or giving me the feeling that it might be better to do it that way.
00:31He totally integrates into the group, into the community, and that's what makes him so extraordinary, with the vita that he has.
00:38I think there are other world-class players, you would have problems integrating them, and he runs through the dressing room like everyone else.
00:46He doesn't just stand there and say, yes, guys, now I'm back, now it's running, or some nonsense like that. He's just one part, like everyone else.
00:51He's a big influence for the group, for the players, he's a calming pole for many players. He also has a footballing gift, he can solve things, he's calm on the ball, he shines on the team.
01:11He controls the game. I have so much respect for him, for what he's done in his entire career. It's an honour to play with him, and he's had so much experience.
01:31I've always said that there will be moments where I will miss football, especially the game itself, playing football, because I'm aware that no matter what happens in the future, or what new hobbies I come up with or try to do, there will never be anything I can do as well as playing football.
01:57And then this period is over.
02:06I will take care of my own, and I will open an academy in Madrid, where I will take care of young players, also children. There will be a lot about children in my life in the future.