Jude Bellingham sends emotional message to Toni Kroos as shock retirement statement stuns Real Madrid players

Jude Bellingham is one of many teammates to pay tribute to Toni Kroos, as the German midfielder announced he would be retiring after the conclusion of Euro 2024.

Kroos who joined Real Madrid from Bayern Munich ten years ago, has gone on to win 4 Champions League trophies, 5 Club World Cups, 4 European Super Cups, 4 Leagues, 1 Copa del Rey, and 4 Super Cups in 422 appearances.

The 34-year-old released the following statement via Instagram to announce his decision.

"July 17th, 2014 - the day of my presentation at Real Madrid, the day that changed my life. My life as a footballer - but especially as a person. It was the start of a new chapter at the biggest club in the world," he began.

"After 10 years, at the end of the season, this chapter comes to an end. I will never forget that insolent successful time! I would particularly like to thank everyone that welcomed me with an open heart and trusted me. But especially I would like to thank you, dear Madridistas, for your affection and your love from the first day until the last one.

"At the same time, this decision means that my career as an active footballer will end this summer after the Euro championship. As I have always said: Real Madrid is and will be my last club.

"I am happy and proud, that in my mind I found the right timing for my decision and that I could choose it by my own. My ambition was always to finish my career at the peak of my performance level. From now on there is only one leading thought: a por la 15!!! HALA MADRID Y NADA MAS!," He concluded.

The midfielder's decision has had a huge reaction from fans and fellow pros, with Madrid teammate Jude Bellingham one of the first to comment on his retirement.

The 20-year-old England international kept it short and sweet with two emojis that spoke volumes with a broken heart and a goat.

Fellow Madrid star Vinicius Jr joined Bellingham in paying tribute to Kroos, by replying, "NO, LEGEND."

It wasn't just current teammates who have shown their appreciation for the German's career, with Gareth Bale dedicating an X post to his former comrade.

The Welshman posted, "Congratulations @ToniKroos on an amazing career. A pleasure to play alongside you."

Congratulations @ToniKroos on an amazing career. A pleasure to play alongside you @realmadrid pic.twitter.com/b1TzznKXjx

— Gareth Bale (@GarethBale11) May 21, 2024

Despite previously retiring from International duty, Kroos has been included in the squad for EURO 2024 and will play his last game as a professional at the tournament.