Real Madrid midfielder Jude Bellingham commented on the decision of German midfielder Toni Kroos to end his professional career with the Madrid club.
Bellingham's words were quoted by Madrid Zone on social media platforms:
You know, I'm so fortunate to be here while he's still at such a high level, and, you know, I've been begging him all year to stay. I think it's annoyed him to the point where he wanted to leave. I hope they don't blame me for that.
On May 21st, the German midfielder confirmed his retirement decision post the Euro 2024 championship in Germany, taking place from June 14th to July 14th.
Kroos has been with Real Madrid since 2014, playing 463 matches across all competitions, scoring 28 goals, and providing 98 assists.
Bellingham previously praised Kroos as one of the best players he has had the opportunity to play with during his career. German national team coach Julian Nagelsmann believes that Kroos has no need to prove his worth to anyone at 34 years old.