Matthäus: Bayern’s sale of Kroos to Madrid was a historic mistake

Lothar Matthäus, the German football legend and now a candid sports analyst, recently shared his thoughts on Real Madrid’s fifteenth Champions League victory and Toni Kroos’ critical role in that success. Reflecting on Kroos’ transfer from Bayern Munich to Real Madrid, Matthäus did not mince words in his critique.

 A Costly Mistake by Bayern Munich

In an interview with *Sport Bild*, Matthäus declared, “The sale of Kroos to Real Madrid was the biggest mistake in Bayern’s history.” He criticized the decision as emotional and irrational, similar to Bayern’s handling of David Alaba’s departure. “Selling him simply for emotions and vanity. As with Alaba’s departure, the actions here were not rational. The Kroos case will continue to harm those responsible for many, many years,” Matthäus said.

 The Transfer that Changed Everything

Kroos moved to Real Madrid in 2014 for a modest fee of 25 million euros after he refused to renew his contract with Bayern, which had one year remaining. The refusal stemmed from Bayern’s unwillingness to meet his financial demands. “We will not pay you more than ten million euros because you are not a world-class player,” Bayern’s then-president Uli Hoeness reportedly told Kroos.

 Praise for a Remarkable Career

Matthäus also praised Kroos for his exceptional career, especially after Real Madrid’s latest Champions League triumph. “UEFA should create its own trophy for Toni Kroos’ lifelong work. His career is already perfect, with the European title he would be number 1 with two stars,” Matthäus suggested. He emphasized Kroos’ impressive on-field performances and his popularity among fans and teammates. “Not only did he always impress on the field, but he also received the love and recognition of the fans. He has an outstanding position in the team,” Matthäus concluded.

 A Legacy of Excellence

Toni Kroos’ transfer to Real Madrid has shaped his career into one of the most decorated in modern football. As Real Madrid continues to thrive, Kroos remains a pivotal figure, exemplifying the qualities of a world-class player that Bayern Munich failed to recognize. Matthäus’ remarks highlight the far-reaching consequences of Bayern’s decision in 2014.

Lothar Matthäus’ reflections underscore the lasting impact of Kroos’ transfer on both Bayern Munich and Real Madrid, highlighting the German midfielder’s extraordinary contributions to the sport.