Toni Kroos launches multimillionaire challenge before El Clásico: “If Barça beats us again, I will donate 20 million to the grassroots categories.”
On the eve of one of the most anticipated matches on the worldwide soccer calendar, El Classic between Real Madrid and FC Barcelona, a statement by Toni Kroos shocked the press and fans. The German midfielder, known for his composure and professionalism, surprised fans at a news conference by launching a challenge as unusual as it is generous:It will donate 20 million euros to Barça’s base categories if the Catalan team can beat Madrid once again .
“If Barça beats us again, I will contribute 20 million euros to the grassroots categories. It is serious,” Kroos said with a mixture of seriousness and a challenging smile. Although some thought it was a joke, the player reaffirmed his commitment: “I like the pressure. And I like young people have opportunities, but I won’t make it so much for them tomorrow.”
The phrase fell like a bomb in Valdebebas, but was also received with surprise and some enthusiasm in the environment of Barça. It is uncommon for a player from Barça’s eternal rival not only to recognize Barça’s youthful talent, but will also be willing to invest such a significant amount in its development.
FC Barcelona reacted quickly. Although no official club spokesman has commented publicly, several figures close to La Masía considered the gesture “strange but welcome if done.” Some former players even played on social networks, asking Xavi to climb a starting team full of young players to ensure the “donation”.
The promise of Kroos also highlights the strong moment of the young talents of Barça, with names such as Lamine Yamal, Fermín López and Pau Cubarsrs consolidating himself in the main team. These players, trained in La Masía, were fundamental in Barça’s recent victories over Madrid and can be decisive again in tomorrow’s departure at Santiago Bernabéu.
For Kroos, who has already announced his professional football retirement at the end of the season, this classic may be the last of his career. And he wants to close with victory. “I’m not here to give anything for free. If you want these 20 million, you will have to win them on the field,” he concluded, laughing, causing laughter from the journalists present.
With this unexpected incentive, Classic gains even more emotion and emotion. Will Barça be able to repeat the feat and, in the process, ensure a historical injection of funds for their base gym? Everything will be revealed in the most intense 90 minutes of Spanish football.
