The German footballer was omitted from Ancelotti’s squad for the clash with the Reds.
Toni Kroos will miss Real Madrid’s first leg of the 2022-23 UEFA Champions League round of 16 against Liverpool. The seasoned midfielder does not feature on Carlo Ancelotti’s official roster for the trip to Anfield, meaning he will not take the field in this high-stakes European duel. The absence is notable for a Madrid side that relies on his control, distribution, and experience in the midfield, especially in a venue as demanding as Liverpool’s home ground.
Why Kroos Isn’t Featured in Liverpool vs Real Madrid in the First Leg of the 2022-23 Champions League Round of 16
The decision was tied to health, with Kroos absent due to a flu illness that sidelined him as the team prepared for the encounter. He is currently in recovery, and while the situation is monitored daily, Real Madrid is hopeful that the midfielder will be ready for the club’s forthcoming fixtures. The expectation is that Kroos could return for the next league match, the Madrid derby against Atlético de Madrid at the Santiago Bernabéu, once the illness has subsided and his conditioning is back to peak levels.
In Ancelotti’s mix, two homegrown talents have entered the squad alongside the regulars. The players in question are Mario Martín and Álvaro Rodríguez. Both traveled to England with the visiting team, carrying the potential to feature for meaningful minutes if the match situation allows it. Ancelotti has kept them in careful consideration, signaling a readiness to integrate youth into big European nights when situations demand it. This strategic approach mirrors Real Madrid’s broader philosophy: blend seasoned internationals with promising academy talents to maintain balance and flexibility in high-pressure games.
The coaching staff, including the tactician and his assistants, is weighing several options as the first leg unfolds. Raul, entrusted with mentoring the Castilla side, has reportedly worked with the first team on the plan to utilize squad depth efficiently, especially given the congested fixture calendar and the travel demands of a European away leg. The interplay between the veteran leadership on the pitch and the fresh energy from academy graduates could shape how Ancelotti navigates the midfield and attacking rhythm in Liverpool’s stadium.
Real Madrid’s approach to this tie reflects a measured long-term view: protect the health of senior players while testing the readiness of younger additions in a competitive setting. The club’s medical team remains vigilant about any lingering symptoms and prioritizes a cautious return-to-play timeline for Kroos, aiming to minimize risk ahead of decisive league and cup fixtures.
Observers note that the absence of Kroos at Anfield could alter the balance of the midfield, potentially increasing the responsibilities of players who can offer breaking runs, ball progression, and tempo control. Yet this situation also presents a valuable opportunity for the squad to demonstrate depth and resilience, attributes that have defined Real Madrid in recent seasons during times of rotation and injury. The narrative surrounding the match emphasizes not just the result, but the broader message of squad cohesion and strategic adaptability under pressure.
Source: Goal