Toni Kroos admits fear Carlo Ancelotti might kidnap him if he ever returned to Real Madrid for kickaround despite retirement

After Kroos chose to hang up his boots, Real Madrid have visibly missed the influence of the German in their midfield. Ancelotti has found it challenging to establish the right balance in the centre of the pitch and his retirement has left a significant void that the Italian has tried to fill by deploying Jude Bellingham in a deeper role.

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  WHAT KROOS SAID

  Speaking on the A to Z podcast, hosted by tennis stars Alexander and Mischa Zverev, Kroos joked about being forced back into action at Real Madrid by Ancelotti despite his decision to retire.

  “I don’t know if they think it’s cool if I pop up once in a while and say I want to join. Currently, there is also a risk that Carlo will tell me: ‘Now stay here,’” Kroos quipped.

  The midfielder is not even contemplating joining Ancelotti’s backroom staff and added: “Right now I don’t feel like training adults. I am going to open a youth academy in Madrid, so they will have to believe in it if I play along.”

  • THE BIGGER PICTURE

    Since joining Real Madrid in 2014 from Bayern Munich, Kroos has amassed a staggering 22 trophies with the Spanish giants. His collection includes five UEFA Champions League titles and four La Liga championships, among other honours. Kroos was an integral part of the midfield trio alongside Luka Modrić and Casemiro that dominated European football for several seasons.

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    WHAT NEXT FOR REAL MADRID?

    Ancelotti will lead his troops in the Champions League against Lille away from home on Wednesday evening. He has been boosted by the return of Eduardo Camavinga in midfield and the Italian would hope to continue their perfect start in the competition by beating the Ligue 1 side. After completing their European commitments, Los Blancos would shift their focus back on La Liga as they are set to host Villarreal on Saturday evening.