toni kroos — NG news

Toni Kroos is set to return to Real Madrid in a senior leadership role, likely as the assistant manager to Jurgen Klopp, who is expected to take over as head coach. This move comes after Kroos retired from professional football in 2024, concluding a decade-long career at the club.

During his time at Real Madrid, Kroos made 465 appearances, scoring 28 goals and providing 99 assists. He was instrumental in the team’s success, winning six UEFA Champions League titles and four La Liga championships.

Francois Gallardo, a prominent sports journalist, stated, “Real Madrid’s plan is for Toni Kroos to be the assistant coach of Real Madrid and Jürgen Klopp the head coach.” The expectation is that these changes will take place this summer.

Kroos’s return is seen as a strategic move to provide stability and leadership at a critical juncture for the club. His strong relationship with Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez is expected to facilitate a smooth transition into this new role.

Since joining Real Madrid from Bayern Munich in 2014, Kroos has established himself as a legend at the club, contributing significantly to its successes. His presence in the midfield is anticipated to be significant, especially in guiding younger players and bridging the gap between the squad and the board.

At 36 years old as of 2026, Kroos is expected to take on responsibilities that may include sporting management, further solidifying his influence within the club.

Details remain unconfirmed regarding the exact nature of Kroos’s role, but his involvement is expected to enhance the team’s performance and cohesion as they prepare for future challenges.