Toni Kroos has come out of international retirement and will play for Germany from next month.
The Real Madrid midfielder, who has won 106 caps and played a major role in Germany’s 2014 World Cup triumph in Brazil, last played for his country in the round of 16 defeat to England during the delayed European Championship in 2021.
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But with Germany hosting this summer’s Euros, Kroos has been asked to return by current national team boss Julian Nagelsmann.
In a post on Instagram, Kroos wrote: “Short and painless. I will play for Germany again from March.
“Why? Because I was asked by the coach. I’m in the mood and I am sure that with this team at the Euros, much more is possible than most believe right now.”
Kroos’ return is a major boost for Nagelsmann with Germany struggling for form amid a wave of apathy in the country.
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A group-stage exit at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar was followed by just three wins from 11 friendlies last year.
Kroos, 34, will add some quality to the Germany midfield with his first game back set to be the friendly with France on March 23 in Lyon. Germany then host the Netherlands in Frankfurt three days later.
Kroos’ Madrid contract expires at the end of the season and he is yet to give any indication as to whether he will remain at the Bernabeu.