Childhood and Early Life of Toni Kroos
Toni Kroos was born on January 4, 1990, in Greifswald, East Germany, into a family that was deeply rooted in the world of sports. His early upbringing in a sports-centric household significantly shaped his passion and career in football.1
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A Family of Athletes
Kroos’ father, Roland Kroos, had a background as a professional wrestler and later transitioned into football coaching, a career shift that played a pivotal role in young Toni’s football development. Roland’s experience as a coach gave Toni and his brother, Felix Kroos, direct access to structured football training from an early age.
Toni’s mother, Birgit Kammer, was a former badminton champion for East Germany. She later became a biology teacher, demonstrating a balance between academics and sports. This athletic legacy in the family ensured that both Toni and Felix were raised with a competitive spirit and the discipline needed to excel in sports.
Early Passion for Football
Toni Kroos’ introduction to football came through his father, who, as a football coach, exposed him to the game’s fundamentals. Unlike many young athletes who show immense natural talent from the outset, Kroos’ path to football greatness was built on hard work, discipline, and the training he received from his father.
He was not initially regarded as the most gifted player in his youth. However, his work ethic and passion for the game distinguished him from others.
Youth Career and Development
- At the age of 12, Kroos joined the youth academy of Hansa Rostock, a step up from his local club that exposed him to more competitive football. His time at Hansa Rostock was crucial in his development, as he quickly rose through the ranks of the youth setup.2
- Despite not being considered the most naturally talented player in the early stages of his career, Kroos’ commitment to training and his ability to learn and improve set him apart from his peers.
- His father’s role as a coach provided Toni with an additional advantage. Roland’s emphasis on discipline and focus helped Toni develop a strong work ethic.
- Despite being an average student academically, he was known for putting extra hours into football practice, refining his technique, ball control, and understanding of the game.
Also Read: Real Madrid Manager Carlo Ancelotti on Toni Kroos Retirement, Finale at Santiago Bernabeu and More
Toni Kroos at Real Madrid
Toni Kroos’ move to Real Madrid in 2014 marked a pivotal moment in his career and solidified his reputation as one of the best midfielders of his generation.
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Before joining the Spanish giants, Kroos was close to signing with Manchester United, but a change in management at the English club altered his course. This unexpected shift would ultimately lead him to one of the most successful spells in modern football history.
Almost Joining Manchester United
Before his transfer to Real Madrid, Kroos had nearly secured a deal to join Manchester United under the management of David Moyes. Moyes, who succeeded Sir Alex Ferguson in 2013, was keen on bolstering United’s midfield and saw Kroos as a key addition to the squad.3
The German midfielder had agreed on personal terms, and the deal seemed imminent. However, Moyes’ tenure at Manchester United was short-lived, as he was sacked in April 2014 after a disappointing season.
A Call from Carlo Ancelotti
Around the time of the 2014 FIFA World Cup, Toni Kroos received a phone call that would change the trajectory of his career. Carlo Ancelotti, the then-manager of Real Madrid, expressed his interest in bringing Kroos to the Santiago Bernabéu.
Ancelotti admired Kroos’ composure on the ball, his vision, and his ability to control the tempo of a match — qualities that fit perfectly into his tactical setup at Madrid.
Joining Real Madrid After World Cup Glory
- Kroos’ transfer to Real Madrid was officially announced shortly after the 2014 World Cup, where he played a crucial role in helping Germany win the tournament.
- His performances during the World Cup further elevated his status, as he was one of the standout players, particularly during Germany’s 7-1 demolition of Brazil in the semifinals, where Kroos scored twice.
- The transfer fee was reported to be around €25 million, a bargain considering Kroos’ age, talent, and potential.
- Real Madrid’s president Florentino Pérez secured one of the most significant signings of the summer, adding a player with incredible technical skills and tactical intelligence to Madrid’s already star-studded lineup.
Toni Kroos’s Net Worth: Earnings and Financial Details
As of 2024, Toni Kroos, one of the most accomplished midfielders in world football, has an estimated net worth of $25 million. This wealth comes from his long-standing and successful football career, lucrative contracts with Real Madrid, endorsement deals, and various other financial ventures.
Annual Salary from Real Madrid
- Toni Kroos continues to be a key player for Real Madrid, one of the wealthiest and most successful football clubs in the world. Kroos signed a contract extension in 2022, and his salary reflects his importance to the team.
- As of 2024, Kroos is reportedly earning an impressive $13 million annually from his contract with Real Madrid. This figure includes both his base salary and performance-related bonuses.
1/4 final✅ pic.twitter.com/h50tLnkKWi
— Toni Kroos (@ToniKroos) March 16, 2023
- Despite being in his early 30s, Kroos remains a vital part of Real Madrid’s midfield, and his consistent high-level performances ensure that he is among the top earners at the club.
- In fact, he is currently listed as the seventh best-paid player on the team, making approximately $210,000 per week. While some of his teammates may earn higher wages, Kroos’ financial standing remains one of the most lucrative in football.
Endorsements and Sponsorships
In addition to his earnings from Real Madrid, Toni Kroos has made a significant amount of money through various endorsement deals. Being a high-profile footballer who has won numerous titles, Kroos has attracted sponsorships from several well-known global brands.
Business Ventures and Investments
Toni Kroos is not only successful in football but has also made smart financial decisions outside of the game. He has ventured into business, particularly through his Toni Kroos Foundation, which he launched in 2015.
The foundation focuses on supporting sick children and their families, and while it is primarily a charitable initiative, it reflects Kroos’ growing interests in philanthropy and social ventures.
Legacy Contracts and Career Earnings
Since joining Real Madrid in 2014, Kroos has consistently earned high wages. His initial transfer fee from Bayern Munich was around €25 million, and his contracts with Madrid have steadily increased in value.
Over the course of his time with the club, Kroos has signed multiple contract extensions, each time boosting his earnings.
Also Read: Toni Kroos (Footballer) Criticizes Real Madrid Kit: Uncomfortable and Unpleasant
Toni Kroos’ Personal Life: Family and Background
Toni Kroos, one of the most respected and successful midfielders in modern football, comes from a middle-class family in East Germany, with deep roots in sports. His upbringing and family support played a crucial role in shaping his career and personal life.
Family Background
Toni was born on January 4, 1990, in Greifswald, a town in what was then East Germany. His family had a strong sports background, which influenced Toni’s early life and decision to pursue a career in athletics. His father, Roland Kroos, was a professional football manager and a significant figure in Toni’s journey to football stardom.
From a young age, Roland Kroos recognized Toni’s potential and dedicated time to coaching and mentoring his son. He was instrumental in guiding Toni’s early development in football, and his experience as a manager helped shape Toni’s disciplined approach to the game.
Siblings and Their Influence
- Toni Kroos is not the only member of his family to pursue a career in football. His younger brother, Felix Kroos, also followed in their father’s footsteps by becoming a professional footballer.
- Felix played as a midfielder, just like Toni, but his career took him through different leagues and clubs. Felix played for Werder Bremen and Union Berlin, among other teams, before retiring in 2021.
- Despite being in the shadow of his more successful brother, Felix had a respectable football career and shared a close relationship with Toni.
- The Kroos brothers often spoke highly of each other, and their bond helped both of them push their limits in the world of football.
- Felix has mentioned in interviews that Toni’s achievements motivated him to work harder and improve his game.
Marriage and Children
Toni Kroos is a family man off the pitch, known for his quiet and private personal life. In 2015, he married his longtime partner, Jessica Farber, after years of dating.
The couple met in Germany during Toni’s early career, and their relationship grew stronger as his football career took off. Jessica, a former tourism management student, has been a constant support for Toni, and the couple has built a stable family life together.
Toni Kroos’ Records & Achievements: A Legendary Career
Toni Kroos has had a glittering football career, establishing himself as one of the best midfielders of his generation. Known for his vision, passing accuracy, and footballing intelligence, Kroos has accumulated numerous records and achievements at both club and international levels.
From World Cup triumphs to Champions League victories, his trophy cabinet is overflowing with accolades that place him among football’s elite.
World Cup Champion (2014)
One of Kroos’ most significant achievements came in 2014 when he helped Germany lift the FIFA World Cup in Brazil. As a key player in Joachim Löw’s midfield, Kroos played a pivotal role throughout the tournament. His standout performance came in Germany’s 7-1 thrashing of Brazil in the semifinals, where he scored twice in quick succession.
Germany went on to defeat Argentina in the final, with Kroos’ midfield control being a crucial factor in their success. His performances during the tournament earned him a place in the FIFA World Cup All-Star Team and the FIFA World Cup Dream Team.
Multiple UEFA Champions League Titles with Real Madrid
Kroos has been instrumental in Real Madrid’s success in the UEFA Champions League. Since joining the club in 2014, Kroos has won the prestigious tournament five times (2016, 2017, 2018, 2022, and 2023). His ability to control the tempo of the game and dictate play from midfield made him a key figure in Madrid’s dominance of European football.
One of his most remarkable feats is winning three consecutive Champions League titles from 2016 to 2018, a feat that has rarely been achieved in the modern era. Kroos’ calmness and precision under pressure were pivotal in these triumphs, and his partnership with Luka Modrić in midfield is regarded as one of the best in football history.
Multiple La Liga Titles
In addition to his European success, Kroos has won three La Liga titles with Real Madrid (2017, 2020, and 2022). These titles reflect his consistency and contribution to the team across multiple domestic seasons.
His accurate passing and ability to retain possession have made him a crucial component of Madrid’s midfield, and his leadership has helped guide the team to sustained success in Spain.
FAQ’S
1. Who is Toni Kroos?
Ans: Toni Kroos is a German professional footballer who plays as a central midfielder for Real Madrid in La Liga and the German national team. He is widely regarded as one of the best midfielders of his generation, known for his vision, passing, and technical ability.
2. How old is Toni Kroos?
Ans: Toni Kroos was born on January 4, 1990, which makes him 34 years old as of 2024.
3. What are some highlights of Toni Kroos’ football career?
Ans: Kroos has had an illustrious career, winning multiple UEFA Champions League titles with Real Madrid, Bundesliga titles with Bayern Munich, and the 2014 FIFA World Cup with Germany. He has been a key player in both club and international competitions.
4. What is Toni Kroos’ estimated net worth?
Ans: As of 2024, Toni Kroos’ estimated net worth is around $90 million, which he has accumulated through his football contracts, endorsements, and other business ventures.
5. What is known about Toni Kroos’ personal life?
Ans: Toni Kroos is married to Jessica Farber, and the couple has three children. Kroos is known for maintaining a private personal life, focusing on family and charitable work outside of his football career.
Read More: Toni Kroos (Footballer) Bio, Age, Career, Wife, Net Worth And More
