Toni Kroos is suffering his worst spell at Real Madrid and the German has been far from his best this season, even becoming the subject of a lot of criticism which only seems to have worsened his confidence and form.
The criticisms haven't all been from outside of the club, either, and Santiago Solari with his words and actions has indirectly given weight to the opinions against the midfielder.
Kroos was the first change at Levante, with the score at 1-1, with Fede Valverde being seen as preferable in the role, which also earned him the wrath of Gareth Bale for him not being the first player to come on.
Solari avoided acknowledging a disgruntled Kroos as he came off in order to avoid a story had he been ignored.
Against Barcelona, the midfielder was anonymous, prompting criticism from Bernd Schuster, who compared him to a "diesel tractor".
It's Kroos' fifth season in Madrid and his performances have not been doubted like this before.
On Saturday, like at Levante, he was the first change for Solari.
"Young players are pushing," Solari said afterwards, and his position is in doubt.
choola32
58
expectation - ronaldo Can't play without modric kroos Marcelo benzema reality- they can't perform without ronaldo 🤣🤣 burn the haters 🔥🔥🖕
princehans
48
everyones position seams threatened at real Madrid. Marcelo, isco, Gareth bale and so on and so. all of this is happening with the departure of cr7.
Riabcenopz
45
Without doubt kroos has build a reputation for himself over all these as one of the best midfielders in the world.But to be frank his poor performance is one of the reason for our poor display this season.Just look at how he lost possession so easily to busquet that led to that rakitic's goal.Solari needs to bench him for some matches for him rediscover his form.