Toni Kroos surprised everyone by calling Vinicius “a money-grubber” after the player’s request for a pay rise at Real Madrid. However, it’s worth noting that president Pérez’s reaction surprised many fans.
In a surprising turn of events that has shocked the football world, former Real Madrid legend Toni Kroos has called Vinicius Junior a “money-hungry” player after the Brazilian star’s bold demands for a significant pay rise. The controversy, which had dominated headlines and sparked heated debate among fans, took an unexpected turn with Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez’s shock response, sparking a furor among fans and commentators.
Vinicius Junior, the exciting winger who has been a key part of Real Madrid’s recent successes, is no stranger to the spotlight. His dazzling performances in the 2023/24 season, particularly in crucial Champions League knockout matches against Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund, cemented him as one of the brightest prospects in world football. With his blistering speed, fearless dribbling, and goalscoring prowess in key moments, Vinicius is hailed as the face of Real Madrid’s new generation of Galácticos. However, his recent contract negotiations have overshadowed his meteoric rise.
Vinicius has reportedly demanded a salary that would place him among the club’s highest-earning players, even surpassing the astronomical sums paid to Kylian Mbappé, who joined Real Madrid for free with a substantial signing-on bonus. The Brazilian’s demands come at a time when the club is grappling with financial constraints and the need to maintain a balanced salary structure. Sources suggest that Vinicius sees his contributions, both on the pitch and as a global ambassador for the club, as justification for a salary package that reflects his growing status.
Enter Toni Kroos, the retired German midfielder whose legacy at Real Madrid is legendary. Known for his pinpoint passing, tactical brilliance, and unflappable composure, Kroos was a key player in the club’s midfield for ten years, contributing to four Champions League titles and countless domestic trophies. Since his retirement following Euro 2024, Kroos has been a much-discussed figure in the football world, often offering candid insights into the sport. His alleged comment, in which he called Vinicius “money-hungry,” sparked a wave of criticism, interpreted by many as an indictment of the priorities of the sport’s younger generation.
Kroos’s comments, reportedly made in a private conversation but leaked to the press, have sparked a divide in opinion. Some fans and analysts argue that the German is simply addressing a concern shared by many: that modern football is increasingly driven by economic motives rather than passion for the sport. Others, however, view Kroos’s remarks as harsh and unjustified criticism of Vinicius, who has overcome significant adversity—including racist insults and incessant criticism—to become a key figure for both club and country. The reaction on social media has been fierce, with Vinicius’s fans accusing Kroos of hypocrisy, given his lucrative contract extensions during his playing career.
The real surprise in this saga, however, comes from Florentino Pérez, the influential president of Real Madrid. Known for his ruthless decision-making and unwavering commitment to the club’s prestige, Pérez has a history of sacking players who challenge the club’s financial structure. Former stars such as Sergio Ramos, Ángel Di María, and Mesut Özil were dismissed when their demands clashed with Pérez’s vision. Many expected Pérez to take a hard line with Vinícius and even consider offers from clubs like Manchester United, who are reportedly preparing a staggering €200 million bid for the winger.
Instead, Pérez reacted with unexpected restraint. Sources close to the club indicate that the president wanted to avoid a public dispute with Vinícius, recognizing his unique value to the team. Rather than issuing an ultimatum, Pérez reportedly entered into direct negotiations with Vinícius’s camp, offering a compromise that would increase his salary while maintaining the club’s salary hierarchy. This pragmatic approach surprised many, as Pérez is not typically known for his willingness to give in to players’ demands. Some speculate that Pérez’s decision was driven by a desire to maintain team harmony, especially with the arrival of Mbappé and the pressure to integrate a star-studded squad.
The situation remains uncertain, with no definitive agreement yet reached. Vinícius’s entourage has emphasized his loyalty to Real Madrid, but the specter of lucrative offers from Saudi Arabia and other European giants looms large. For Kroos, the controversy has put him back in the spotlight, raising questions about his role as a commentator on modern football. Meanwhile, fans continue to wonder whether this saga will mark a turning point for Real Madrid’s Galácticos project or simply fade into the endless drama of the transfer market. One thing is certain: the clash between ambition, legacy, and loyalty at the Santiago Bernabéu is far from over.
