At 34 years old, Toni Kroos has officially retired from professional football, closing a remarkable chapter after a decade at Real Madrid. However, the German midfielder is far from stepping away from the sport that has defined his life. Instead, he is diving into coaching and community initiatives, ensuring his legacy continues to flourish.
Since announcing his retirement in the summer of 2024, Kroos has engaged with technical courses offered by the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF). This commitment to education has paved the way for the establishment of the Toni Kroos Academy located in Boadilla del Monte, just west of Madrid. The academy, which operates under the auspices of the Las Encinas de Boadilla club, is described on its website as “an exceptional place where football passion meets excellence.” It offers a variety of training sessions, sports camps, and immersive experiences for young athletes eager to hone their skills.
A Vision Born from Adversity
The inspiration for this academy emerged during the COVID-19 pandemic when Kroos initiated the “Toni’s Home Challenge” on social media. This initiative encouraged fans and aspiring players to share videos showcasing their football drills. Following its success, he organized his first football camp in Cologne in 2022, which laid the groundwork for the Boadilla academy’s launch in September 2024, as reported by AS.
Beyond the Pitch: A Multifaceted Approach
Kroos’s involvement in football extends beyond coaching. He has also launched several initiatives including the Icon League in Germany—a competition akin to France’s Kings League—collaborating with professional players and content creators. His brother Felix serves as president of one of the clubs within this league. Furthermore, since 2015, the Toni Kroos Foundation has been dedicated to raising funds for children suffering from serious or chronic illnesses, aiming to bring joy and happiness into their challenging lives.
In addition to these ventures, Kroos co-hosts a podcast with Felix titled “Einfach Mal Luppen,” where he candidly discusses contemporary football topics. Recently, he provided critical insights on Hansi Flick’s management style and expressed concerns about FC Barcelona’s risky playing approach. His willingness to address various teams and leagues reflects his deep understanding of the game and its evolving dynamics.
Toni Kroos’s journey post-retirement illustrates his unwavering commitment to football and its community. As he shapes future generations through his academy and engages in meaningful projects, fans can expect to see his influence extending well beyond his playing days. Will his new endeavors inspire a new wave of talent in Spanish football?
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