Juan Román Riquelme is a big fan of Toni Kroos. The Argentine legend compares the 34-year-old midfielder from Real Madrid to tennis icon Roger Federer.
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"Kroos comes closest to Federer," Juan Román Riquelme remarked during an interview with TNT, drawing a unique comparison between Real Madrid's midfielder Toni Kroos and the tennis legend Roger Federer.
The former Barcelona and Boca Juniors player elaborated on this comparison, highlighting the effortless style and elegance both athletes display in their respective sports. "They can play with the ball and go home without needing to take a bath," Riquelme explained, marveling at how Kroos, like Federer, manages to maintain a certain cleanliness in his play, seemingly unaffected by the physical toll of the game. "It's amazing. He doesn't get dirty and doesn't sweat."
Kroos has been an integral part of Real Madrid for almost a decade, contributing significantly to the team's success on both domestic and international stages. During his tenure at the club, Kroos has helped secure multiple Spanish titles and Champions League victories. With 449 appearances for Real Madrid, Kroos has scored 28 goals and provided 96 assists, showcasing his role as a key playmaker for the team. Additionally, his international career with the German national team includes 106 matches and a World Cup victory, further cementing his status as a world-class midfielder.
Riquelme's admiration for Kroos is clear, but the Boca Juniors president also expressed his enthusiasm for another Real Madrid star, Jude Bellingham. The young English midfielder, a recent acquisition for Real Madrid, has quickly made an impact, scoring twenty goals for the club. Riquelme praised Bellingham's talent and contribution, placing him alongside Kroos in terms of skill and importance to the team. "I love Kroos, but also Jude Bellingham," Riquelme said. "He is very good, players of a fantastic level."
The accolades did not stop with the midfielders, as Riquelme also had words of praise for Dani Carvajal. The Spanish right-back, according to Riquelme, does not receive the recognition he deserves. "Carvajal doesn't get enough recognition. He is one of the best right-backs in the history of Real Madrid," Riquelme asserted, acknowledging Carvajal's contributions and consistency over the years.
Through Riquelme's observations, it's evident that he holds a deep respect and admiration for the talent and professionalism displayed by these Real Madrid players. His comparison of Kroos to Federer not only highlights the German's exceptional skill and composure on the field but also underscores the high regard in which he is held by footballing peers and observers alike. As Riquelme continues to lead Boca Juniors, his insights into the game and its players provide a fascinating perspective on the qualities that define the world's best athletes.
