Toni Kroos, set to retire after this summer’s European Championship, recently shared his all-time best teammates XI, featuring several Real Madrid legends alongside some unexpected names from earlier in his career.
As one of the most accomplished midfielders of his generation, Kroos has played with many elite footballers. For his ultimate XI, he chose a blend of household names and a few lesser-known players who made a significant impact on him. Among the famous faces were Cristiano Ronaldo and Luka Modric, both of whom were unsurprising picks given their stellar performances alongside Kroos at Real Madrid.
Kroos started his lineup with Manuel Neuer in goal, praising his former Bayern Munich and current Germany teammate as the best goalkeeper of all time. “For me, the best of all time. Full stop,” said Kroos, highlighting Neuer’s exceptional abilities and leadership.
In defense, Kroos selected a back three, including Real Madrid’s Sergio Ramos, whom he described as one of the greatest center-backs and a pivotal part of his success. Alongside Ramos were Gonzalo Castro and Stefan Reinartz, both from Kroos’s loan spell at Bayer Leverkusen. He fondly recalled their time together, emphasizing their skills and the strong bond they shared during their brief stint as teammates.
The midfield lineup featured Joshua Kimmich, Casemiro, Luka Modric, and Felix Kroos. Casemiro and Modric were integral to Kroos’s success at Madrid, forming a formidable trio. Kroos also included his younger brother Felix, citing their close relationship and shared experiences in youth football. Kimmich was another notable inclusion, with Kroos praising their quick synergy and Kimmich’s mentality.
In attack, Kroos named Cristiano Ronaldo, highlighting their successful period at Real Madrid, which included multiple European Cup victories. He also mentioned Thomas Muller and Franck Ribery, unable to choose between the two, suggesting they share the position. Muller, a long-time friend and Bayern teammate, and Ribery, known for his exceptional team play and unique personality, both left lasting impressions on Kroos.
Rounding out the XI was Miroslav Klose, whom Kroos admired for his on-field quality and off-field mentorship. Klose played a crucial role in helping Kroos transition to Bayern’s first team and continued to support him in the national team, earning his place in Kroos’s ultimate lineup.
This carefully selected team reflects the profound impact these players had on Kroos’s illustrious career, both on and off the pitch.