Real Madrid Carlo Ancelotti reveals what it will take for Toni Kroos return to happen if midfield icon U-turns on retirement decision

Kroos announced his retirement in May, confirming that he will play at Euro 2024 with Germany and then hang up his boots after a glittering career. The 34-year-old made his debut in 2007 and has gone on to win a bevy of trophies, including seven league titles and six Champions Leagues, but is now set to turn away from the game.

Kroos remained a key player for Real in 2023/24, making 48 appearances in all competitions, and Ancelotti is not completely closing the door on the German returning to Madrid's starting XI next season, having seen him seemingly bow out of club football by winning the Champions League.

Ancelotti told Il Giornale: "Modric is a unique example of quality and personality. Unfortunately, Kroos has decided to stop, he is a German in his choices but he will continue to live in Madrid, I told him that if, in the autumn, he had to change his mind, a phone call and we'll start again."

Germany kick off Euro 2024 this Friday against Scotland. They will then face Hungary and Switzerland to round off the group stages. It remains to be seen if Kroos will end up bowing out with an international trophy, or if he will indeed pick up the phone to Ancelotti this summer.