FC Barcelona star Pedri has responded to an apology Real Madrid legend Toni Kroos made for injuring the midfielder in Spain’s Euros quarterfinal win over Germany before the weekend.
In an act which was out of character for the usually graceful playmaker, Kroos went charging into Pedri in the opening minutes of the last eight meeting and sent him flying into the air.
Pedri landed awkwardly on his left knee which the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) later told Mundo Deportivo has suffered an internal ligament sprain.
After spending some time writhing in pain, the 21-year-old returned to his feet and walked off the Stuttgart pitch holding back tears.
He was replaced by goalscorer Dani Olmo, and though Florian Wirtz levelled in the 89th minute, a 119th minute extra time header from Mikel Merino put La Roja through to the semifinals on Tuesday, where they will meet Kylian Mbappe’s France, via a 2-1 win.
Pedri’s involvement in the Euros has been brought to an abrupt end, however, and he will play no further part in the competition thanks to his knock.
Kroos has since apologized to Pedri, though, and tagged him in an Instagram post on Saturday.
“Logically it wasn’t my intention to hurt you,” he insisted, while asking for “forgiveness”.
“A speedy recovery and all the best. You are a great player,” Kroos added.
Now on Sunday afternoon in Europe, Pedri has used the same social media platform to address the matter.
“I came to Germany for Euro 2024 and I will continue here, until the end. Because the dream, do not doubt it, continues,” he vowed.
“This week it’s time to encourage and contribute in another way to this great family that is [the Spanish football team].
“Their support and that of all of you has been incredible. The hardest moment has passed and the road back is now beginning, to soon be at full strength with Barcelona.
Then getting to the now-retired Madrid icon, Pedri further said: “Thank you Toni Kroos, for your message. This is football and these things happen. Your career and your record remain forever.
“I just want to say one more thing. LET’S GO SPAIN!,” Pedri concluded.