Time is ticking for Toni Kroos. It doesn’t stop, it’s getting closer. His official website (toni-kroos.com) features a countdown to the next game: Six hours, 50 minutes and 30 seconds. Hang on, now it’s 25 seconds. Can you feel it coming? A huge game, a special game, a game which could influence the rest of the season: The second leg of the Spanish Cup last 16 game (20:00 CET).
Real have to overcome a 2-0 deficit to qualify for the next round. They face Athletico – their local rivals and reining Spanish champions. Kroos wasn’t in Spain six months ago but is already aware of the rivalry. He’s looking forward to the game – he likes to play under pressure and in the biggest games. But most of all, he likes to play in front of his own supporters. Kroos has developed a huge affinity with his new home stadium: “I love playing in the Bernabeu.”
Transfer from Munich: “A huge and important decision”
When asked about his transfer from Munich to Madrid, he said: “It was a huge and important decision to join this club.” He doesn’t say much about the decision, but you can see it in his eyes: It may have been a big decision, but it was the right one for both him and the club. The German is a key part of
Carlo Ancelotti’s team. He arrived as a world champion and his performances are worthy of the title. “He’s the sort of player that has just a few weaknesses. There aren’t many players like him on the planet,” said Xabi Alonso, who made the opposite journey soon after.
Ahead of the game against Athletico, Ancelotti gave a press conference in which he spoke about the importance of the game. It could be a season defining moment, said the Italian. The importance is increased as it is a local derby – it’s important for the supporters. The opposition have one of the strongest defences in Europe and an impressive attack.
Obviously, he also spoke about his plan, about the ways and means of breaching a tough defence. Ancelotti didn’t have to use the word Kroos – it was clear that he was going to be crucial. Real have to play sensibly: They need to remain balance and play at a sustainable tempo, there is no need to force the issue. Toni Kroos is crucial to this; he makes the team tick.
Kroos is crucial to Real’s style
A look at the statistics show just how important Kroos is to Real: He has made 16 appearances, averaging 83 minutes per game. If a game looks won, he will be brought of. He averages 75 passes per game, of which 94% are completed. It’s like clockwork.
Kroos will have to be on top form, ff Real want to progress tonight. He is aware of the seriousness and importance of the clash: “It’s not going to be easy, but we’ll do all we can.” He can’t wait. The clock is ticking. The game starts in six hours, 47 minutes and 12 seconds. Hang on, now it’s eight seconds. Kick-off is getting closer…