Toni Kroos has enjoyed many great moments in his career, but this one sits at the very top.
The Real Madrid legend spoke to Realmadrid TV after receiving the Knight’s Cross of the Order of Merit of the Federal Republic of Germany.
“I’m very happy,” he revealed. “I’ve received several awards in my career, but this is the highest honor you can receive in Germany. And if it’s also for the Foundation, where we help sick children and their families, this award means a great deal.”
Kroos admitted that part of the ceremony caught him off guard. He expected to see Florentino Perez and the German president. He did not expect the surprise appearance of his former teammates.
“Not even Antonio [Rudiger], who is a very good friend, told me,” he added.
“When they told me the event was going to be at the Bernabeu, I was very happy, because it seems like the perfect place to receive this Order. It has been my home for 10 years and I feel it will always be my home. I always enjoy being in this stadium.
“The whole day was spectacular. Weeks before, I’d already said I wanted a farewell at the Bernabeu when we had nothing left to play for, and that we should finally be champions so I could enjoy it.
“That’s exactly what happened, and from the moment I left home until I returned, I enjoyed it. What they prepared for me, the affection of the fans, my teammates, the president, the coach… It was special.”
For the German, the honour marks another milestone in a glittering career. And just like many of his greatest passes, the moment landed perfectly at the Bernabeu, a place he still calls home.
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