Toni Kroos laughs after being booed by Saudi fans again

Toni Kroos is a pretty candid footballer. When he appears on the podcast he has with his brother Felix, who plays for Union Berlin, he often leaves a string of headlines for his way of expressing himself, which is not malicious, but honest. In the past, he has repeatedly criticised the transfer of certain players to Saudi Arabia, where respect for human rights is questionable to say the least.

Hence, in the Spanish Super Cup semi-final against Atletico, the crowd at the Al Nassr stadium booed him when he came on - he replaced Luka Modric - and every time he played the ball. The incident was repeated in the Spanish Super Cup 'Clasico' final title game, in which Carlo Ancelotti started him, so he enjoyed much more space in the spotlight and, therefore, more chance of receiving the ire of those in attendance.

His attitude, far from being angry, was ironic. When his coach took him off the pitch to give him a rest, he laughed as he walked to the dugout hearing the whistles of the spectators, who took it out on him both at this moment and during the celebrations, when the television cameras focused on him. He even raised his hand in salute. Perhaps it was a gesture of mockery or perhaps a thank you to the fans who applauded him.

Even Fede Valverde realised how comical the situation was and laughed as the squad waited to receive the trophy, which was collected by captain Nacho Fernandez. 

 

January 14, 2024