From Juanito to Kroos: Two Iconic Images for Madridismo
Football gifts us with eternal and iconic images that are etched into the hearts of fans. For Real Madrid supporters, Toni Kroos's farewell will be unforgettable. At the top, commanding the football of a legendary team, his departure from the Wembley pitch was full of emotion, reminiscent of Juanito’s farewell in 1985.
These are different eras with similarities, such as the European comebacks that have always been part of Real Madrid's identity. In the 80s, it was the UEFA Cup. Today, it’s the Champions League.
In the round of 16, Real Madrid had been thrashed 5-1 by Borussia Mönchengladbach, but, led by Juanito and José Antonio Camacho, they came back with a 4-0 win at the Santiago Bernabéu, with braces from Jorge Valdano and Carlos Santillana. When Juanito was substituted, he left the field jumping for joy, igniting the Bernabéu with his passion.
The day Toni Kroos shed his stoic exterior was during his farewell at the Santiago Bernabéu in his last LaLiga match. Unmoved during the tribute, he broke down in tears when hugging his children at the edge of the field. At Wembley, with the score at 2-0, Kroos showed his emotion when substituted, embraced by his teammates and dedicating gestures of gratitude to the fans and his loved ones.
Pointing to the Real Madrid badge on his shirt and blowing kisses, Kroos bid farewell. His substitute was Luka Modric, with whom he shared 23 titles. The embrace between them and with Carlo Ancelotti marked the end of a glorious era.
From Juanito to Kroos, two iconic departures from the field for Real Madrid fans.