Football

Toni Kroos, the German maestro, has etched his name into the annals of football history by winning his sixth Champions League title, a feat that places him among the most decorated players in the competition's illustrious history.Kroos's swansong at Real Madrid culminated in a fitting triumph as the Spanish giants defeated Borussia Dortmund 2-0 at Wembley Stadium. The German midfielder played a pivotal role in the victory, orchestrating Madrid's midfield with his trademark precision and vision.Alongside teammates Dani Carvajal, Nacho, and Luka Modric, Kroos joined Real Madrid legend Paco Gento as the most decorated players in European Cup history. The 34-year-old's exceptional career has been marked by an unwavering commitment to excellence and a remarkable ability to control the tempo of the game.Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti expressed his admiration for Kroos, stating that his door remains open should the midfielder reconsider his decision to retire after Euro 2024. "He's finished at the top. It is not possible to go out better," said Ancelotti. "He is a legend of this club and obviously we all thank him for what he has done."Kroos's Champions League journey began at Wembley Stadium in 2013 when he was part of the Bayern Munich team that won the competition. However, injury prevented him from featuring in the final. After helping Germany win the World Cup in Brazil, Kroos joined Real Madrid in 2014 and became an integral part of a generation that has dominated European football.In his farewell match, Kroos was at the heart of Madrid's resurgence after a sluggish first half. His trademark free-kick was denied by Gregor Kobel, but he played a crucial role in Carvajal's opening goal. Vinicius Junior quickly added a second to seal the victory and allow Kroos to receive a standing ovation from the Madrid faithful.Kroos's retirement from international football after Germany's Euros exit in 2021 was short-lived. He has answered the call from manager Julian Nagelsmann to return for one last major tournament at Euro 2024.Toni Kroos's illustrious career has come to an end, but his legacy as one of the greatest midfielders of his generation will endure. His exceptional talent, unwavering professionalism, and unwavering commitment to excellence have left an indelible mark on the game of football.

Claudio Ranieri, the legendary Italian manager, has bid farewell to Cagliari, bringing an end to a remarkable four-decade coaching career. In his final match in charge, Cagliari suffered a heartbreaking 3-2 defeat to Fiorentina in the 13th minute of added time.Ranieri's departure marks the end of an era for Cagliari, a club he guided to Serie A in 1989 and 1990. He returned to the club last season and saved them from relegation, fulfilling a promise he made to the fans.Despite the defeat, Ranieri's legacy at Cagliari remains intact. He is revered as a father figure by the players and fans, who chanted his name and gave him a standing ovation before the match.Ranieri's decision to retire was made with a "heavy heart," as he feared tarnishing his two brilliant spells with Cagliari. However, he leaves behind a lasting impact on the club and the players he has coached."He's taught us things that are valuable not just on the pitch, but in life in general," said Gianluca Lapadula, a Cagliari striker. "If you don't fight for your teammate, the man next to you, you'll never go anywhere."Ranieri's career has been marked by both triumphs and setbacks. He famously won the Premier League with Leicester City in 2016, but he has also experienced relegation and managerial dismissals.Despite the ups and downs, Ranieri remains a beloved figure in the world of football. He is known for his warmth, his tactical acumen, and his ability to inspire his players.As Ranieri steps away from club management, he leaves behind a legacy of success and a reputation as one of the most respected and admired figures in the game.

Real Madrid's German midfielder Toni Kroos has announced his retirement from all football after the Euro 2024 tournament. The 34-year-old, who won the 2014 World Cup with Germany, made the announcement on Instagram on Tuesday.Kroos has been a key player for Real Madrid since joining the Spanish giants in 2014, forming a formidable midfield partnership with Luka Modric. He has won the Champions League five times with Real, including the upcoming final against Borussia Dortmund on June 1.Before the European Championship, Kroos has a chance to win the Champions League with Real for a fifth time when they face Borussia Dortmund at Wembley on June 1. He also won the Champions League with Bayern Munich before joining the Spanish giants.Kroos joined Real in 2014 and quickly formed a formidable midfield partnership with Luka Modric. In a statement on their website, Real said Kroos "will go down in Real Madrid history as one of our club and international football's greatest legends".Kroos has also won the Liga title four times. He announced he was quitting international football in July 2021 but reversed his decision in February after talks with Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann, who persuaded him to play on till the Euro 2024 on home soil."My ambition was always to finish my career at the peak of my performance level," Kroos said on Instagram. "I am happy and proud that in my mind I found the right timing for my decision and that I could choose it on my own."Kroos was one of the key players when Germany won the World Cup in Brazil in 2014 and scored twice when they inflicted a 7-1 defeat on the host nation in the semi-finals. But four years later he was unable to prevent Germany from crashing out in the group stage in Russia.

Indian football captain Sunil Chhetri's decision to retire from international football after the FIFA World Cup qualifier against Kuwait on June 6 has sent shockwaves through the Indian football fraternity. The 39-year-old striker, who has been the face of Indian football for over a decade, has been a beacon of hope and inspiration for aspiring footballers across the country.Chhetri's decision was driven by a combination of physical and mental factors. While he remains physically fit and capable of playing at the highest level, he admitted that the mental toll of international football had taken its toll. "The retirement decision was not because of physical aspect, I am still fit, running, chasing, defending, the hard work is not difficult, the reason is to do with mental aspect," said Chhetri.The mental aspect that Chhetri referred to is likely related to the immense pressure and expectations that come with being the captain of the Indian national team. India has struggled to achieve significant success on the international stage, and Chhetri has often been the target of criticism and scrutiny. The constant pressure and scrutiny can take a heavy toll on a player's mental health, and it is understandable that Chhetri felt the need to step away from the international spotlight.Chhetri's retirement will leave a huge void in the Indian football team. He is the country's all-time leading goalscorer with 94 goals, and his experience and leadership will be sorely missed. However, Chhetri is confident that the team has the potential to continue to grow and improve without him. "I am sure the team will do well, they have the talent, they have the potential, they have the hunger," said Chhetri.Chhetri's retirement also marks the end of an era in Indian football. He was part of the golden generation of Indian footballers that included Bhaichung Bhutia, IM Vijayan, and Renedy Singh. These players helped to raise the profile of Indian football and inspired a new generation of players. Chhetri's retirement is a reminder that all good things must come to an end, but his legacy will continue to inspire Indian footballers for years to come.

Sunil Chhetri, the legendary Indian footballer, has announced his retirement from international football, leaving an indelible mark on the sport. With a career spanning 19 years, Chhetri has etched his name in the annals of Indian football history as one of its most prolific and decorated players.Chhetri's journey began in 2002 with Mohun Bagan, where he honed his skills and rose to prominence. His exceptional talent and unwavering determination earned him a call-up to the national team in 2005, marking the beginning of an illustrious international career.As the captain of the Indian team, Chhetri led by example, inspiring his teammates and captivating fans with his exceptional skills and unwavering spirit. He guided India to numerous victories, including the 2007, 2009, and 2012 Nehru Cup, as well as the 2011, 2015, 2021, and 2023 SAFF Championship.Chhetri's most significant achievement came in 2008 when he led India to victory in the AFC Challenge Cup, securing the country's first qualification for the AFC Asian Cup in 27 years. His contributions to Indian football were recognized with the Arjuna Award in 2011, the Padma Shri in 2019, and the Khel Ratna Award in 2021, India's highest sporting honor.Beyond his on-field accomplishments, Chhetri is known for his humility, hard work, and dedication. He has always strived to be a role model for aspiring footballers, emphasizing the importance of perseverance and sportsmanship.As Chhetri prepares to bid farewell to international football, he leaves behind a legacy that will inspire generations to come. His unwavering determination, exceptional skills, and infectious enthusiasm have made him a true icon of Indian football.

Virat Kohli Lauds Sunil Chhetri's Retirement Decision, Praises His Modest NatureIndian cricket legend Virat Kohli has expressed his admiration for ace footballer Sunil Chhetri's decision to retire from international football. In an interview on the RCB Insider Show, Kohli revealed that Chhetri had messaged him prior to announcing his retirement."He is a really dear friend. He actually messaged me as well, informing me that he was going to do it. But I would say that he felt like he is at peace with the decision," Kohli said.Kohli praised Chhetri's modest nature and his contentment with his decision to retire. "I have become really close with him over the years and wish him nothing but the best. He is a lovely lovely guy," Kohli added.Chhetri, who has been an inspiration to Indian football, will play his last international match against Kuwait on June 6. The third-highest active international goal scorer, Chhetri has scored 94 goals in 150 matches for India.In his retirement announcement, Chhetri recalled emotional moments with his family. "I told my mom, my dad and my wife, my family first, my dad, he was normal, he was relieved, happy, everything, but my mom and my wife started crying and I told them, you always used to bug me that there are too many games, there is too much of pressure when you watch me and now that I'm telling you that, you know, I'm not going to play for my country anymore after this game," he said.Meanwhile, Kohli has been in impressive form for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the ongoing IPL 2024. The former India captain is the current Orange Cap holder with 661 runs in 13 matches, including one century and five half-centuries.

Sunil Chhetri, the legendary Indian footballer, has bid farewell to international football after a remarkable career spanning two decades. The 39-year-old forward announced his retirement through a heartfelt video on social media, stating that India's upcoming FIFA World Cup Qualifier against Kuwait on June 6 will be his final match.Chhetri's journey began in 2002 with Mohun Bagan, and his exceptional talent quickly propelled him to international recognition. He has represented India in 150 matches, scoring an astonishing 94 goals, making him the third-highest active international goal-scorer behind Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi.Chhetri's international exploits include victories in the Nehru Cup (2007, 2009, 2012) and the SAFF Championship (2011, 2015, 2021). His contribution to India's 2008 AFC Challenge Cup win secured their first AFC Asian Cup appearance in 27 years.Beyond his international success, Chhetri has also left an indelible mark on Indian club football. He has lifted trophies with prestigious clubs like East Bengal, Dempo, Mumbai City FC, and Bengaluru FC, where he truly flourished, winning the I-League (2014, 2016), ISL (2019), and Super Cup (2018).Chhetri's retirement marks the end of an era for Indian football. His dedication, passion, and unwavering spirit have inspired generations of players and fans alike. He leaves behind a legacy that will continue to inspire and motivate aspiring footballers for years to come.