Toni Kroos continues to reflect on the pivotal moment from the quarter-final match between Spain and Germany during Euro 2020. His recent comments about Marc Cucurella's handball highlight how this incident still lingers in his mind, even three months after the match. 

That game not only marked the end of Germany’s tournament run but also coincided with Kroos's retirement from professional football. Had circumstances been different, he muses, it could have altered the timing of his departure from the sport.

The match ended in a 1-1 draw, pushing the contest into extra time as both teams fought for a place in the semi-finals. Germany, as the host nation, had high hopes, but it was during the 106th minute that a controversial incident occurred. 

Jamal Musiala’s shot struck Cucurella’s hand, but referee Anthony Taylor chose not to award a penalty. This decision, compounded by Mikel Merino’s late goal for Spain in the 119th minute, ultimately sealed Germany’s elimination from the tournament.

Kroos, who wished for at least one more game in his career, has addressed the handball incident in light of ongoing discussions regarding UEFA's criteria for handball offenses. His remarks reflect both disappointment and humor as he critiques the delayed recognition of the handball, stating: “It took them three months to realize there was a handball, something that almost everyone else could see in a second. That reassures me a lot (laughs). Can I say that I’m now a European champion because they have officially confirmed it? I don’t think so.” These comments were made while he was serving as a commentator during a match in the Icon League, a new league inspired by the Kings League, as reported by "Realtotal."

Referees and Handball Controversies

The uncertainty surrounding handball calls is not limited to Kroos's experience; it extends to the referees themselves. International referees have received directives from UEFA for the current season but have struggled to comprehend the guidelines. 

Initially, it was expected that handballs occurring with arms down and relatively close to the body would remain non-punishable. However, UEFA's latest instructions have caused confusion, indicating that hands pointing down are no longer exempt from being penalized.

This shift in interpretation has added to the complexity of officiating, as the position of the hand is no longer the sole factor in deciding a handball offense. Now, if the hand is not attached to the body, a penalty should be awarded if the ball is headed toward the goal. Such changes in rules continue to create uncertainty for players, referees, and fans alike, further complicating an already contentious aspect of the game.