'Still prefer you in blue': Toni Kroos' message to Luka Dončić after Lakers move

UPDATED: Feb 27, 2025 23:16 IST

Retired Real Madrid legend Toni Kroos recently caught up with Los Angeles Lakers star Luka Dončić after a game at Crypto.com Arena. The German midfield maestro, who hung up his boots in 2024 after a decorated career, posted a picture with Dončić on Instagram, sparking a wave of reactions from fans and fellow athletes.

Kroos captioned the post: “Still prefer to see you in a blue shirt @lukadoncic... Good to see you mate. Do your thing”. The remark was a nod to Doncic’s time with the Dallas Mavericks before his surprising trade to the Lakers last year.

The bond between the two:

Kroos and Doncic's bond goes beyond their respective sports. Before becoming an NBA superstar, Doncic played for Real Madrid’s basketball team. He joined their youth academy in 2015 and made history as the club’s youngest-ever debutant at just 16 years old. He later helped Madrid win the Euro League before heading to the NBA in 2018.

Kroos, on the other hand, spent a decade with Real Madrid, winning six Champions League titles and leaving as one of the club’s greatest midfielders. His presence at the Lakers-Mavericks game was a special moment for Madridistas and basketball fans.

The post generated buzz across social media, with Real Madrid basketball legend Sergio Llull commenting, "Too much magic in one photo," highlighting the star power of the two athletes.

Lucas Vazquez Comment on the post:

Lucas Vázquez, Kroos's former Real Madrid teammate, replied, "I also preferred to see you in white." His comment reflected the strong bond shared between the former Los Blancos teammates and their admiration for Dončić, who also has ties to Real Madrid.

Luka Doncic’s Big Trade Deal:

Doncic’s trade to the Lakers remains one of the most talked-about moves in NBA history. The 25-year-old left Dallas in a blockbuster deal that sent Anthony Davis to the Mavericks. The transfer shocked fans and analysts, and its impact continues reverberating throughout the league.