Real Madrid legend Toni Kroos wins ‘Golden Man’ award – ‘A very nice way to end my career’

Real Madrid legend Toni Kroos was honoured with the Golden Man award last night by Tuttosport at the Golden Boy Gala in Turin.

The German international, who retired after Euro 2024, was given the accolade in recognition of the key role he played for both Real Madrid and the German national team in his final season, clearly still at the peak of his powers.

Winning La Liga, the UEFA Champions League and the Spanish Super Cup, he was instrumental in Los Blancos’ midfield and the void left by his departure still haunts Carlo Ancelotti’s side conspicuously.

Kroos talks after being named the winner

Kroos did not attend the event in person but made sure that he was present virtually through a video call. He spoke after being announced as the winner and revealed what it meant to him.

“It’s a special night for me. It is beautiful to be recognized for such a prestigious award. Also that so many former players and legends have voted for me is something that means a lot to me,” he said as revealed by Mundo Deportivo.

“It’s an honour and a very nice way to end my career,” he added.

Among the other favourites for the award were the same names who adorned the top two of the Ballon d’Or – Rodri and Vinicius Jr. Kroos, however, finished ahead of the duo after the voting.

Notably, he was the only Real Madrid player to win an award on the night as Barcelona swept the other three big accolades on the night with Lamine Yamal, Vicky Lopez and Aitana Bonmati taking home the Golden Boy, Golden Girl and Golden Woman respectively.