Confidence is not in short supply if you are a German player these days so it was no surprise to hear Toni Kroos back his chances of forging a successful career at Real Madrid as the new signing was unveiled by the reigning European champions yesterday.
After a flirtation with Manchester United at the end of last season, the 24-year-old’s decision to reject the offer of a new contract with Bayern Munich has taken him to the Bernabéu instead in a deal thought to be worth around €25 million.
Perhaps it was the self-assurance that comes from helping your country to victory in the World Cup final four days previously but Kroos – who scored two goals in the 7-1 destruction of Brazil in the semi-finals – was clearly not overawed as he was presented in front of 8,000 fans before taking to the pitch wearing his new No 8 shirt.
Win trophies
“I know that at this club you are expected to win trophies but I’m the right man for that because I’m used to winning,” said Kroos, who joins on a six-year deal.
“I know this is the correct decision and I’m very proud to have made it. I cannot think of anything more wonderful than being here. This is the biggest club in the world. In 2013 I won the Champions League and in 2014 Real won it, and I hope we can win it again next year. I hope to be able to return the confidence this club has shown in me.”
United’s pursuit of Kroos came to an end after the German reportedly held talks with Louis van Gaal before the World Cup but it is believed the lack of Champions League football at Old Trafford next season was a major factor in his decision.
A product of Hansa Rostock’s youth system before moving to Bayern at the age of 15, Kroos has won three Bundesliga titles and three German Cups in addition to the Champions League and World Cup.
“This is a very young player but one with an incredible honours list,” said the Real president Florentino Pérez.
“We weren’t surprised by his performances during the World Cup, they were just confirmation that we had chosen the right player.”
Turning to Kroos, he added: "The demands placed on you at Real Madrid are unlimited. You arrive at a club that has just won the European Cup but you have come here to make this club even greater.
“Madridistas always want more and you’ve come here to make this club even greater, and the fans are already dreaming about winning the 11th European Cup.”
Newcastle United have announced Mathieu Debuchy has completed his move to Arsenal and Daryl Janmaat has joined the Magpies on a six-year deal from Feyenoord. Newcastle will receive around €15million for Debuchy, around half of which has been invested in his replacement.
Meanwhile Swansea have announced that Spain international Michu has joined Napoli on a season-long loan deal.
Guardian Service
