Real Madrid star Toni Kroos has slammed the upcoming transfer of Celta Vigo midfielder Gabri Veiga to Saudi Arabian side Al-Nassr.
Veiga, 21, is regarded as one of the best young talents in La Liga, and was strongly linked with Real Madrid earlier this summer, as he had a £34m release clause which the club considered activating.
However, whilst a move to Los Blancos did not materialise, there was interest in the midfielder from a number of top clubs including Arsenal and Napoli, but he has suddenly agreed on a deal to join Al-Nassr.
The Saudi Pro League have recruited a lot of big-name stars including Karim Benzema and Neymar, but the difference with Veiga is that he is a bright talent with a big future, whilst the others have already accomplished a lot in their long careers.
Kroos is clearly not a fan of the move, and has taken to Instagram to express his disapproval, calling the deal “embarrassing.”
With Real Madrid set to face Celta Vigo this weekend, this is sure to be an interesting undercurrent during the game, as the veteran has essentially criticised both the player and his club for agreeing to such a deal.
Is Kroos right?
As one of the finest midfielders of his generation, and one of two players to win every possible trophy with two different clubs, it is fair to say that Kroos is a player who has had an impeccable career.
Although Veiga is a huge talent, and one who could have reached the top level, it takes a lot of mental fortitude to reach the level Kroos did, and perhaps Veiga’s move shows that he does not have the same determination as the World Cup winner.
Nevertheless, even if he is correct, Veiga’s move to Real Madrid was shelved when the club decided to pursue Arda Guler instead, and some may feel that Kroos has no right to comment on what Veiga now decides to do with his own career.
It is a shame to see a talented player leave European football so early in his career, particularly given the level of clubs interested in him, but there is every chance that he returns to Europe or even Spain one day.