Former Real Madrid midfielder Toni Kroos has appeared to take a subtle dig at Liverpool’s new record signing, Alexander Isak.
Real Madrid Legend Toni Kroos Questions Liverpool’s Big Signing
The comments were made on the German star’s personal podcast, Einfach mal Luppen, earlier this week.
The discussion came in the wake of Liverpool’s dramatic deadline-day move for the Newcastle United striker.
The Reds secured the Swedish international for a reported fee of €145 million, making him one of the most expensive Premier League signings ever.
However, Kroos questioned the global stature of the 25-year-old forward. Speaking to his audience, the retired midfielder expressed doubt over how widely known Isak is among football fans.
“Isak joining Liverpool for a lot of money?” Kroos stated.
“I trust our listeners, but I would tell you that, more or less, half have never heard of Isak. Judge for yourself. Seriously.”
The surprising remark suggests that Kroos believes the forward may not yet have the international recognition expected of a player commanding such a high transfer fee.
Isak has built a strong reputation in England with his performances for Newcastle and previously impressed in La Liga with Real Sociedad.
His move to Anfield was one of the biggest stories of the transfer window, as Liverpool sought a major attacking signing.
While Kroos’s comments will certainly stir debate, they highlight the subjective nature of a player’s profile and value in the modern game.
