Steven Gerrard attempted to sign Toni Kroos for Liverpool in 2014. The German World Cup winner was a top target for the Reds, but he opted to join Real Madrid instead.
What happened?
Gerrard was given the task of contacting Kroos by former Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers. Gerrard sent a text to Kroos, who was respectful but ultimately decided to join Real Madrid.
Why it mattered for Steven Gerrard
Gerrard's attempt to sign Kroos was part of his unofficial role at Liverpool, where he would try to persuade top players to join the club. This was not the only time Gerrard tried to recruit a top player, as he also attempted to sign Willian in 2013.
What came next?
Kroos went on to have a successful career at Real Madrid, winning four La Liga titles and five Champions League titles. He also appeared in the 2018 and 2022 Champions League finals against Liverpool, with Real Madrid winning both times.
Gerrard's attempt to sign Kroos was revealed in his 2015 autobiography, *My Story*. Kroos also spoke about the incident in an interview with The Athletic in 2020, saying that Liverpool offered to tell him more about the club.
The incident highlights the challenges Liverpool faced in attracting top talent during Gerrard's playing career. Despite their best efforts, the club was often unable to compete with the likes of Real Madrid and Barcelona for the biggest names in football.
Gerrard's experience in trying to sign Kroos and Willian shows that even the biggest clubs can face difficulties in the transfer market. The Reds have since improved their recruitment, but the memory of missing out on Kroos remains a notable what-if in the club's history.
Kroos retired from football after Euro 2024, bringing an end to a successful career that saw him win numerous titles and individual awards. His legacy continues to be felt in the football world, and his decision to join Real Madrid instead of Liverpool remains a fascinating footnote in the history of the sport.
The incident also highlights the importance of having a strong squad and attractive prospects for top players. Liverpool have since invested heavily in their squad and have become a more attractive destination for top talent.
In the end, Gerrard's attempt to sign Kroos was unsuccessful, but it shows the efforts the club made to attract top players during his playing career. The experience has likely informed the club's recruitment strategy in the years since, and the Reds continue to push for success in the Premier League and Champions League.