Top three midfielder who could replace Toni Kroos at Real Madrid

The Los Blancos midfielder was a crucial member of the squad

Following Toni Kroos’ emotional announcement to retire from professional football after the UEFA EURO 2024, a heavy cloud hangs over Real Madrid. The German maestro, a lynchpin in the club’s recent success story, leaves a gaping void in their midfield. His arrival in 2014 marked a turning point.

Toni Kroos‘ arrival coincided with the beginning of a historic era for Los Blancos. With his laser-focused passing, pinpoint crosses and unerring tactical awareness, he became the lynchpin of a midfield that controlled games and unlocked defences. 

Four Champions League titles, three La Liga crowns, and a plethora of other trophies stand as testaments to his impact. Kroos wasn’t just a winner; he was the embodiment of Real Madrid‘s winning mentality, a player who remained composed under pressure and delivered moments of magic when needed.

His influence transcended the pitch, his leadership qualities inspiring his teammates and establishing him as a legend in the club’s rich tapestry. Finding a suitable successor presents a monumental challenge for Real Madrid’s hierarchy.

Real Madrid are on a quest to find a successor who can not only fill the void left by Kroos’ departure but also continue the club’s tradition of midfield excellence. Let’s delve into the top three contenders vying for this coveted role.

3. Joey Veerman (PSV Eindhoven)

For a gamble on a future star, Real Madrid might look towards the Netherlands and 22-year-old prodigy Joey Veerman. While relatively untested at the highest European level, Veerman possesses all the attributes reminiscent of a young Kroos.

He has a natural elegance on the ball, dictating the tempo of the game with his precise passing and intelligent movement. Veerman’s vision and ability to find teammates in dangerous positions are a joy to watch.

He’s calm and composed under pressure and possesses a maturity beyond his years. While his defensive contributions and physicality might need some development, there’s no doubt that Veerman has the potential to blossom into a world-class midfielder.

Trending World Football Articles:

• Top five most successful English clubs of all-time
• Managers with most trophies in football history
• Top 10 most valuable teams in MLS 2024
• Euro 2024: Start date, end date, telecast & more
• Top 10 clubs with most Premier League titles

2. Nicolo Barella (Inter Milan)

Nicolo Barella, the 27-year-old Italian powerhouse, presents a different kind of solution. While not a direct like-for-like replacement for Kroos, Barella brings an aggressive, box-to-box presence to the midfield. He’s a tireless runner with a knack for winning tackles and dictating the tempo of the game.

His vision and passing ability are impressive, though not quite on par with Kroos’ laser-like precision. However, Barella’s tenacity and drive could add a much-needed dimension to Real Madrid’s midfield.

He’s a serial winner, having been instrumental in Inter Milan‘s Serie A triumph in 2021 and Italy’s EURO 2020 victory. His leadership qualities and experience playing at the highest level make him a strong contender for the spot.

1. Joshua Kimmich (Bayern Munich)

Topping the list is Joshua Kimmich, the 29-year-old midfield dynamo currently plying his trade for Bayern Munich. Often compared to Kroos for his exceptional passing range and tactical awareness, Kimmich possesses the versatility and leadership qualities desired by Real Madrid.

He rose to prominence under Pep Guardiola at Bayern, showcasing his ability to orchestrate attacks from a deep-lying playmaker role. However, Kimmich has thrived under Hansi Flick, evolving into a more complete box-to-box midfielder.

His tireless work ethic, ability to break lines with his passing, and knack for scoring crucial goals make him a perfect fit for the Real Madrid midfield. There’s an undeniable comfort factor with Kimmich. He already understands the demands of playing for a major European club, having won numerous Bundesliga titles and a Champions League title with Bayern.

Additionally, his experience playing alongside Kroos for the German national team would ensure a smooth transition into the vacated role. However, acquiring Kimmich wouldn’t be easy. He’s a vital cog in the Bayern machine, and the German giants are unlikely to let him go without a fight. A hefty transfer fee could be a major hurdle for Real Madrid.

For more updates, follow Khel Now on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram; download the Khel Now Android App or IOS App and join our community on Telegram.