Kroos benched in Champions League knockout tie for first time

Kroos is one of the players that makes little noise and works a lot. The CM is one of the first names on Zidane's teamsheet, but he was discarded in favour of Isco in the Champions League match against Manchester City. It was something that was never seen before.

According to 'Marca', something which was checked by ProFootballDB, BeSoccer's stat lab, it was the first time that he hasn't been part of the starting XI in a Champions League knockout tie.

He already missed out in the past, in the 2018 last 16 2nd leg, but that was because he had just recovered from an injury. This season's one, thus, is the first time that his manager decided to leave him out intentionally; however, his replacement, Isco, scored.

It wasn't enough to get the win, as City managed to turn the match on its head in around 5 minutes. Things have turned out to be quite complicated for the 2nd leg, which will take place at the Etihad Stadium, will Toni Kroos start then?