Riquelme : « At Real Madrid, he plays and goes home without bathing »

In a recent interview with **TNT Sports Argentina**, Argentine football legend **Juan Roman Riquelme** expressed his admiration for former **Real Madrid** midfielder **Toni Kroos**, likening the German’s elegance on the pitch to tennis great **Roger Federer**. Known for his sophisticated style of play, Kroos has long been regarded as one of the most graceful midfielders of his generation, and Riquelme’s comments further solidify his legacy.

Riquelme, who starred for **FC Barcelona** and **Villarreal** during his La Liga career, has always been an avid follower of Spanish football. When asked about Kroos, he was effusive in his praise, calling the German midfielder the “most elegant footballer” he has ever seen. “Kroos is what comes closest to Federer playing tennis,” Riquelme remarked. “He can play a full game and go home without even needing to shower because he never gets dirty. He’s that careful and elegant on the pitch.”

This comparison to Federer, known for his flawless technique and effortless grace, reflects Kroos’ unique ability to control the tempo of a game with precision and calmness. His measured passes, intelligent positioning, and ability to navigate through pressure without resorting to rash decisions set him apart as one of the finest in the sport.

**Toni Kroos** was a pivotal figure for **Real Madrid**, and his contributions were key in the club’s success, including multiple **La Liga** and **Champions League** titles. His departure at the end of last season, after helping the club secure the **Champions League** and **La Liga**, marked the end of an era. Despite stepping away from professional football at the peak of his career, Kroos’ influence on the team remains deeply felt

Even now, **Real Madrid** manager **Carlo Ancelotti** has publicly acknowledged how difficult it has been to replace Kroos. The Italian coach has struggled to find someone who can replicate the calmness, decision-making, and quality Kroos brought to the midfield. Ancelotti openly admitted before Real Madrid’s **Champions League** match against **Lille** that they’ve yet to find a solution. “We cannot find a player who can replace Kroos. We have to find another way to play without him, but it’s challenging,” said Ancelotti. The team’s performances this season have been inconsistent, and observers agree that the absence of Kroos’ calming influence has left a void.

Aurélien Tchouaméni, one of Real Madrid’s emerging midfield stars, also emphasized the difficulty of filling Kroos’ shoes. Speaking to the press, Tchouaméni acknowledged Kroos’ irreplaceability but vowed to give his all on the field to ensure Real Madrid continues to win. “Toni was a very important player for us. We have more responsibility now, and we have to do everything to win,” the French midfielder stated.

Kroos’ absence is not only felt in Real Madrid’s results but also in the way the team plays. His ability to dictate the flow of a match with precise passing and intelligent movement was unmatched, and without him, Madrid is yet to find the same level of control in games. For a team that has always thrived with midfield maestros like Kroos, Luka Modrić, and Xabi Alonso, finding a new rhythm post-Kroos has been one of Ancelotti’s biggest challenges this season.

Ultimately, Toni Kroos’ legacy as one of the most elegant and intelligent midfielders in modern football is solidified by tributes from legends like **Riquelme**. His absence continues to be felt at **Real Madrid**, and while the club looks to the future, they will always remember the quiet brilliance Kroos brought to every match he played.