Real Madrid legend Toni Kroos blames internal discord for trophyless campaign and El Clasico defeat

Real Madrid legend Toni Kroos has publicly condemned the club's trophyless campaign, stating that two consecutive seasons without winning is unacceptable. Speaking on his podcast *Einfach mal Luppen*, the former midfielder attributed the team's disappointing campaign to poor relationships within the club. This assessment follows a decisive 2-0 defeat to Barcelona in the El Clásico, a result that allowed Barcelona to be crowned champions with three games remaining in the La Liga title race.

Kroos admitted that the Real Madrid squad never truly believed they could win the El Clásico match, suggesting the defeat was mentally accepted before kickoff. He remarked that while the team was motivated, the loss was already accepted before the game began. The comments highlight a significant disconnect between the squad's mindset and the high expectations placed upon them during the campaign.

Regarding the opening goal scored by Marcus Rashford, Kroos defended goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois from criticism over the error. He stated that Courtois could not have done more against a great strike from a very tight space. Kroos noted that the keeper took a step towards the other post but argued that blaming him for the goal was unjustified given the nature of the strike.

Kroos was far more critical when discussing Ferran Torres' second goal, stating that it highlighted the tactical difference between the two sides. He observed that Barcelona's players involved in the goal had well-developed game plans and movement patterns derived from training. This contrast underscored the disparity in preparation and execution between the two clubs during the match.

Concluding his analysis, Kroos highlighted Arda Güler as a player for the future who should be central to the club's rebuild. He advocated for Güler to play as a No. 10 close to the goal to utilise his final passing ability rather than playing deeper. Kroos argued that Güler is not a defensive-minded player and loses potential when positioned further back from the strikers and wingers.

The comments were made by Kroos during an appearance on his personal podcast, *Einfach mal Luppen*, as reported by Mundo Deportivo. As a former Real Madrid midfielder and club legend, his internal assessment of the squad's dynamics and performance carries significant weight within the footballing community.