Toni Kroos Ready to Boost Real Madrid Against Liverpool After Overcoming Illness
Real Madrid have been handed a huge boost ahead of their massive Champions League clash with Liverpool, with midfield maestro Toni Kroos now declared available for the last 16 first leg after overcoming an illness scare last week.
The German international was forced to sit out Real’s 2-0 win against Osasuna prior to the trip to Anfield, sparking concerns that manager Carlo Ancelotti could be without one of his most important players for the European tie. However, Kroos is understood to have recovered in time to feature against Jurgen Klopp’s men in what is a replay of last season’s final.
Toni Kroos Return Comes at a Vital Time
Kroos’ return to fitness could not have come at a better time for Los Blancos as they prepare to face a formidable Liverpool side on home soil. The Reds dismantled Real Madrid in Paris last May to lift the European trophy for the seventh time, and have regained peak form since the arrival of star signing Cody Gakpo.
With the Merseysiders eager to get one over their recent nemesis, Ancelotti will want as close to a full-strength eleven as possible. While Karim Benzema also remains an injury doubt, Kroos’ intelligence and composure could be pivotal in midfield against Liverpool’s high intensity press.
Few would question the German’s place among the elite midfielders of his generation. With over 100 caps for Die Mannschaft and five Champions League winner’s medals to his name split between Bayern Munich and Real Madrid, Kroos has already etched his name into football folklore.
Yet at 33 years old, he shows little signs of slowing down, with his immaculate technique, visionary passing range, and unflappable nature still making him an integral part of Los Blancos’ engine room.
Toni Kroos Ball Control & Distribution Are Key vs Liverpool’s Gegenpress
After being rested for the Osasuna fixture, Kroos will be refreshed and ready to dictate terms in his trademark fashion at Anfield. His ability to retain possession under pressure could frustrate Liverpool’s high octane ‘gegenpressing’ system honed by Jurgen Klopp.
While Luka Modric tends to take the spotlight, Kroos’ sharp decision making and flawless delivery often go under the radar as a fulcrum in midfield. However, his role in keeping Real Madrid’s moves flowing with his rhythmic left foot could unlock spaces against the Premier League contenders to supply the likes of Vinicius Junior further forward.
The German Has Inspired a New Generation at the Bernabeu
Alongside compatriots such as David Beckham and Mesut Ozil, Kroos now stands tall in a prestigious lineage of legendary German creators beloved at the Santiago Bernabeu stadium. His self-assured manner and air of invincibility with the ball at his feet serve as inspiration to Los Blancos’ next generation.
The likes of his understudy, Aurelien Tchouameni, are learning from one of the modern game’s most intelligent orchestrators in the twilight years of his career. Yet while Real Madrid begin ushering in a change of guard, manager Carlo Ancelotti will rely on Kroos’ enduring quality and experience on big European nights.
Final Thoughts: Why Tony Kroos Return is Huge Ahead of Liverpool Rematch
As the football world anticipates another thrilling installment of a burgeoning modern rivalry between two European heavyweights, Toni Kroos’ recovery hands Real Madrid a timely boost. In a midfield battle that could decide the contest, his flawless passing range and ice-cool decision making under Liverpool’s fierce pressure can tilt things in Los Blancos’ favor.
Few would bet against another Champions League medal awaiting a player who has already amassed 18 major career honors. Alongside defensive bulwark Aurelien Tchouameni, Kroos’ contribution will be vital if Real hope to take an advantage back to the Spanish capital for the second leg at the Santiago Bernabeu next month.
