Kroos’ reaction after being booed in Spanish Super Cup win over Atlético

Toni Kroos has offered up a light-hearted response to being booed by Saudi fans during Real Madrid’s Spanish Super Cup win over Atlético Madrid on Wednesday.

Brought on as a second-half substitute in Riyadh, the Madrid midfielder was jeered every time he touched the ball, with local supporters angered by his criticism of players who have accepted big-money transfers to Saudi Pro League clubs.

In a post-match message on X, the social-media platform formerly known as Twitter, Kroos quipped: “That was fun today! Amazing crowd”.

What has Kroos said about Saudi league?

Kroos has said that his concerns over human-rights abuses by Saudi Arabia’s repressive regime would prevent him from moving to the kingdom. In particular, he has taken aim at players who opt to go to Saudi soccer during the prime years of their careers, calling it a “decision for the money - and against football”.

In an interview with Sports Illustrated in August, the 34-year-old said: “Everyone has to make this decision for themselves, such as Cristiano Ronaldo, who decided to do so towards the end of his career. But it becomes very difficult when players who are in the middle of their careers and have the quality to play for top clubs in Europe decide to make such switches.

“And then it is said that it is an ambitious sporting decision to go there, but the truth is that it’s all about the money. In the end it’s a decision for the money - and against football. And from there it starts to get difficult for the football we all know and love.”

Notably, Kroos was publicly critical of 21-year-old Spanish starlet Gabri Veiga’s decision to join Saudi side Al Ahli in the summer, despite interest from several major European clubs. Replying to an Instagram post about the transfer in August, Kroos wrote on the social-media site: “Shameful”.

Madrid into final after thrilling win

Kroos and Madrid are now preparing for Sunday’s Spanish Super Cup final, after a 5-3 win over city rivals Atlético in a dramatic semi-final.

Extra-time goals by Joselu and Brahim Díaz secured victory for Carlo Ancelotti’s men at Al-Awwal Park, despite Atlético twice taking the lead in normal time.

Madrid will face the winners of Thursday’s second semi-final, which sees Barcelona take on Osasuna.