Toni Kroos backs Jude Bellingham amid criticism at Real Madrid

Real Madrid legend Toni Kroos has defended Jude Bellingham, calling the England midfielder "one of the most complete midfielders in the world." Speaking on a podcast with Rio Ferdinand, Kroos recalled that Bellingham's first year in Madrid "was crazy" and praised qualities he described as "very, very special." Bellingham has faced sharp criticism from parts of the Spanish media and some fans during a challenging period at the Bernabeu.

Injuries, including a shoulder operation and subsequent muscular issues, have disrupted his ability to sustain the standards set during a sensational debut campaign. Ferdinand also rejected much of the negative coverage, saying there has been an attempt to "give an image of him that does not correspond to reality" and that "they have tried to invent stories." Both former players pushed back against narratives they see as unfair.

Spain, Madrid

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