Germany midfielder Toni Kroos injured FC Barcelona and Spain star Pedri with a brutal challenge early in the two teams’ Euro quarterfinal clash on Friday. Catalan newspaper SPORT described the act as the veteran’s “last service for Real Madrid.”
The incident took place in the fourth minute of the highly anticipated quarterfinal, which many had predicted to be the standout match of the tournament so far.
Match Context
– Spain had won all four of their matches leading up to this game.
– Germany, the host nation, was also a strong contender.
Kroos was highly motivated for the match, especially after his former Real Madrid teammate Joselu mentioned that Spain hoped to “retire” the number 8. This was significant as Kroos had already announced his retirement from international football once Germany’s participation in the tournament ended. His last club match was a 2-0 Champions League final win over Borussia Dortmund at Wembley.
Determined to make an impact, Kroos was aggressive from the start. After initially confronting Barca’s 16-year-old Lamine Yamal, he then charged into Pedri, causing the young midfielder to soar through the air and land awkwardly on his left knee.

Pedri’s Injury
Pedri, visibly distressed, asked to be substituted while still on the ground. He left the pitch in the eighth minute, holding back tears and covering his face. Dani Olmo came on as his replacement.
Many spectators felt that Kroos should have been penalized with at least a yellow card. According to journalist Alfredo Martinez from Onda Cero, Pedri’s Euros participation has come to an end due to the severe collision.

SPORT remarked that an “unleashed” Kroos had executed his “last service to Real Madrid” by injuring Pedri. The sight of Pedri leaving the field in such an emotional state was heartbreaking for Barca fans, especially since he had to leave a La Liga match against Athletic Club earlier this year due to a right quad injury.
Pedri’s Injury Details
– Pedri has suffered “an internal lateral sprain of his left knee.”
– Further tests will be conducted to rule out “major injuries,” according to Spanish Football Federation sources.
Pedri, who has been plagued by injuries since his breakout season in 2020/2021, had managed to finish Barcelona’s season and participate in the Euros. However, thanks to Kroos’ tackle, his campaign in Germany seems to be over, regardless of how far Spain progresses in the tournament.