Former Real Madrid midfielder Toni Kroos recently shared his thoughts on the club’s head coach, Carlo Ancelotti. Having played for Real Madrid from 2014 to 2024, Kroos enjoyed a decade filled with remarkable achievements, including multiple UEFA Champions League titles and domestic trophies. Ancelotti, who returned to Madrid for his second stint in 2021, played a pivotal role in Kroos’s success during his time at the club.
Kroos expressed gratitude for the guidance and support he received from Ancelotti, noting that the Italian coach’s tactical acumen and calm demeanor made a significant impact on the team. The German midfielder appreciated Ancelotti’s ability to adapt strategies based on the players’ strengths and the challenges faced in different competitions. This flexibility was crucial in helping the team navigate high-pressure situations, especially in critical matches.
Reflecting on his career, Kroos highlighted the importance of having a coach like Ancelotti, who fosters a positive environment and encourages players to express themselves on the pitch. The bond between the coach and players was evident, contributing to the team’s cohesion and overall performance. As Kroos concluded his professional career last summer, he emphasized that the memories made under Ancelotti’s leadership would always hold a special place in his heart.
Kroos’s journey at Real Madrid is a testament to his skill and dedication, as well as the influence of Ancelotti in shaping a winning culture at the club. The German’s insights serve as a reminder of the strong connections formed in football, both on and off the field, and the lasting legacy that coaches like Ancelotti leave behind. As he moves forward in life after football, Kroos carries with him the invaluable lessons learned during his illustrious career at one of the most prestigious clubs in the world.
Toni Kroos’s reflections on his relationship with Carlo Ancelotti highlight the deep connection between player and coach that has defined much of his career at Real Madrid. In a recent statement on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter), Kroos expressed his appreciation for the unique bond they shared, noting, « We have always had a special relationship and I like the idea that my time in Madrid began and ended with him. » This sentiment encapsulates the significance of Ancelotti’s influence on Kroos’s journey in football.
Ancelotti first took charge of Real Madrid in 2013, bringing with him a wealth of experience and a calm, strategic approach to coaching. His initial tenure was marked by immediate success, culminating in the club’s long-awaited La Décima—its tenth UEFA Champions League title—in 2014. Under his guidance, Kroos flourished as a pivotal figure in midfield, contributing to the team’s attacking play while also providing essential defensive support.
The Italian coach’s ability to foster a winning mentality was evident during his first spell at the club. Ancelotti’s emphasis on teamwork and player development allowed Kroos to thrive in an environment that prioritized both individual and collective success. The duo’s synergy was instrumental in securing not only domestic titles but also international acclaim, as their collaboration laid the foundation for one of the most successful periods in the club’s history.
After a brief hiatus from the club, Ancelotti returned to Real Madrid in 2021, and Kroos was there to welcome him back. This second chapter proved to be equally fruitful, as the team continued to dominate, winning two La Liga titles and two Copa del Rey trophies during Ancelotti’s second tenure. The crowning achievement of this period was the 2022 Champions League triumph, which solidified Real Madrid’s status as a powerhouse in European football. Kroos’s contributions were vital, as he showcased his exceptional passing ability, vision, and football intelligence on the grandest stages.
The bond between Ancelotti and Kroos extended beyond tactical discussions; it was rooted in mutual respect and understanding. Ancelotti’s management style—a blend of tactical flexibility and personal connection—allowed Kroos to feel valued and empowered on the pitch. This relationship was marked by open communication, where players felt comfortable sharing their thoughts and ideas, fostering an atmosphere of trust that benefited the entire squad.
As Kroos entered the final stages of his career, the decision to retire in the summer of 2024 marked the end of an era not just for him, but for Real Madrid as well. The midfielder’s legacy at the club is defined by his contributions to numerous titles and his role in shaping the team’s identity. Ancelotti’s presence during both the beginning and end of Kroos’s time at Madrid adds a poignant narrative to his career, emphasizing how significant relationships can influence a player’s journey.
In summary, Toni Kroos’s remarks about Carlo Ancelotti reflect a profound appreciation for the role the coach played in his professional life. Ancelotti’s return to Madrid not only reignited the team’s competitive spirit but also provided Kroos with the opportunity to conclude his career under the guidance of a coach who understood him deeply. Their shared history is a testament to the power of collaboration and the impact of leadership in football, leaving an indelible mark on Real Madrid’s storied legacy. As Kroos moves forward, the lessons learned and memories created alongside Ancelotti will undoubtedly remain cherished aspects of his personal and professional journey in the world of football.