Kroos Responds to Mikel After Being Called "Ordinary": "Why Didn't You Play for Real Madrid Then?"

10 February 2026at22:41

Former Real Madrid midfielder Toni Kroos has ignited a widespread debate after delivering a sharp retort to comments attributed to former Chelsea and Nigeria star John Obi Mikel.

The controversy arose from widely circulated remarks, attributed to Mikel, stating: "Kroos is an ordinary midfielder, and I am better than him. The only difference between us is that I didn't play for Real Madrid."

Kroos wasted no time in responding to Mikel's alleged comments. He took to his official Instagram account's "Story" feature, reposting the quote attributed to the Nigerian player and adding a direct and sarcastic retort: "Why didn't you play for Real Madrid then?"

Kroos played for Real Madrid for 10 seasons, securing an impressive 23 titles across 465 appearances. His trophy haul includes five Champions League titles, five Club World Cups, four UEFA Super Cups, four La Liga titles, one Copa del Rey, and four Spanish Super Cups.

Q&A

What did John Obi Mikel say about Toni Kroos that sparked a debate?

John Obi Mikel reportedly called Kroos an 'ordinary midfielder,' claiming superiority and attributing Kroos's Real Madrid career as the sole difference. Kroos's direct Instagram retort ignited a widespread discussion.

What major titles did Toni Kroos win during his time at Real Madrid?

Toni Kroos secured an impressive 23 titles across 465 appearances for Real Madrid, including five Champions League trophies, four La Liga titles, and one Copa del Rey, among others.

Spanish La Liga

English Premier League

Chelsea

Real Madrid

Toni Kroos