Real Madrid will not look to sign player to replace Toni Kroos, club believe they already have a ready-made replacement - Reports

Real Madrid will reportedly not look for a replacement for the now-retired Toni Kroos next season, as the club believe Federico Valverde could fill the void.

Kroos announced his retirement towards the end of last season, stepping down after 10 years at the club. Joining from Bayern Munich in 2014, the German midfielder was an integral part of the club's success over the last decade, making 465 appearances across competitions.

His departure marks the end of an era, and perhaps the loss of a key player, but Los Blancos won't make any new signing to bolster their options in midfield. That's because, according to Spanish news outlet Diario AS, Madrid believe Valverde could step into his role. The Uruguayan has already inherited Kroos' No.8 jersey at the club, and could now shoulder the responsibilities too.

Possessing similarly prolific distribution qualities with a keen eye for goal, Valverde can expect more game time from next season onwards. Since returning from a loan spell at Deportivo la Coruna, the 25-year-old has gradually carved out a niche for himself at the club.

Following the German's departure, Valverde also paid a heartfelt tribute to Kroos, where he revealed that the latter was 'always the player he idolised', and how he 'never stopped admiring' the maestro.

Kroos responded to the kind words by highlighting that Valverde was 'important' to him, and that he loved him both as a player and a person.

After ending his club career, Kroos headed to Euro 2024 on home turf with Germany for one last major tournament. However, Spain upset his plans of bowing out with another European trophy by inflicting a 2-1 defeat in the quarter-final.

---

Real Madrid begin new season on August 14, 2024

Following a gap of over two months, Real Madrid will begin their new season on August 14, 2024, in the UEFA Super Cup against Atalanta. The UEFA Champions League winners take on the Europa League winners in a one-off game at the National Stadium in Warsaw, Poland.

It's a great opportunity for both sides to begin the new season with a trophy, although Real Madrid will be the favourites. With five titles, they are the joint-most successful side along with local rivals Barcelona, while Atalanta are playing for the first time.

After stunning Bayer Leverkusen 3-0 in the Europa League final, La Dea are looking to cause another upset but will have their task cut out.