Real Madrid News
Real Madrid midfielder has ‘change of heart’ regarding renewal, club optimistic now
It has been a turbulent few weeks for Real Madrid when it comes to player contracts. The reigning European champions, after all, could be set for a major makeover in the coming summer, with a host of their star players having their contracts expire at the end of the season.
Toni Kroos is among the players facing an uncertain future at the club. But unlike stars such as Luka Modric, who has been courted by Saudi Arabian giants Al Nassr, the German is not facing the prospect of a potential elsewhere.
Rather, Kroos has been reportedly flirting with the idea of early retirement. Despite being just 33, the former Bayern Munich man is considering hanging up his boots, having won almost everything in his decorated career, including five Champions League titles and a FIFA World Cup trophy.
Recent reports had suggested that there is pessimism within the Real Madrid camp over the continuation of Kroos. But as per Relevo, all indications suggest that the German might end up renewing his contract at Santiago Bernabeu.
One of the reasons behind Kroos’ desire to put an early end to his career was the criticism he faced from fans over his performances. It played a key role in convincing him to retire from international football in 2021.
However, Kroos has emerged as one of the most consistent performers for Real Madrid under Carlo Ancelotti. His contributions were immense last season as he helped Los Blancos secure the Champions League and the league title. He has continued his form even in the ongoing campaign.
Therefore, Kroos could tilt towards another renewal that could see him remain at the Bernabeu until 2024. His prolonged stay at the club could go a long way in helping youngsters such as Aurelien Tchouameni and Eduardo Camavinga to mature quickly and eventually become the face of the Real Madrid midfield.
In a positive update, Real Madrid defender David Alaba is set to return from his injury by making an appearance for the Austrian national team against Estonia later tonight, confirms Sergio Quirante.
Alaba has been out of action for over a month now, after picking up an injury during Real Madrid’s UEFA Champions League Round of 16 first-leg tie against Liverpool at Anfield.
The Austrian international had been making progress in training at the club but was not ready in time for the Clasico against Barcelona on March 19.
Despite the injury, Alaba travelled to join the Austrian national team during the current international break.
And, according to the report from Sergio Quirante, the Real Madrid ace has good feelings after training with his national team. Having had several sessions under his belt now, the versatile defender is all set to make his return later tonight.
Austria will face off against Estonia in their second UEFA Euro 2024 Qualifiers Group F encounter later tonight and Alaba is in line to get some minutes against the minnows.
What remains to be seen is whether manager Ralf Rangnick opts to start the former Bayern Munich superstar on the night or introduces him as a substitute in the latter stages of the game.
Alaba’s imminent return will be good news for Real Madrid, who have a series of important matches coming up after the international break as they look to salvage their season.
Following the loss to Barcelona earlier this month, Carlo Ancelotti’s men are now 12 points off the top of the table in La Liga and are pretty much out of the equation to retain the title. They are also training the Catalans 1-0 in the Copa del Rey semi-finals while Chelsea await in the Champions League quarter-finals.
