Kroos: Jovic? Madrid isn't Eintracht

"The best thing that could happen to me was to sign for Real Madrid. As the only German in Madrid I have had more recognition than as one of eight German internationals in Bayern," said Kroos, in an interview published by 'Sport Bild'.

"Many of my critics thought I wouldn't succeed in Madrid, but at least they watched me. I think I've managed to change a lot of people's minds, at Bayern that wouldn't have been possible. Even if we had won the Champions League, people would only have said that Kroos was also part of the team," he added.

Kroos also admitted that he is thinking of retiring when his Madrid contract expires in 2023.

“My contract duration was chosen consciously. At 33, that would be a good age to hang up the boots. I will have the opportunity at that moment to choose if I want to do something after that", he said.

In the interview, Kroos was also asked about Cristiano Ronaldo's departure and how it affected 'Los Blancos': "His transfer made everyone happy. He wanted a new experience and Real Madrid earned a lot of money."

With respect to Madrid's new signings, Kroos spoke about Eden Hazard, who he sounded excited to play with, and Luka Jovic, who he warned about the step-up from Eintracht Frankfurt to Real Madrid.

"Hazard may in the next few years be a key figure for Real Madrid. I hope so for him and for us" said Kroos who, however, warned that the team's successes have always been based "on good collective work".

Kroos admitted not to having followed Jovic too closely at Eintracht Frankfurt, but did speak about his numbers. "Despite them (his numbers), Madrid is not Frankfurt. But if the club signed him it's because he can make us stronger," he said.