Toni Kroos Unveils the Top 10 Free Kick Takers: CR7’s Position Surprises

Since retiring from professional football last June, Toni Kroos has found new ways to engage with the sport he dominated for years. The former Real Madrid midfield maestro has been actively participating in media appearances, charity matches, and sharing his insights on the game. Recently, in an interview with the digital media platform 433, Kroos took on a unique challenge: ranking the ten greatest free-kick takers of all time.

The task, however, came with a twist. Kroos did not select the names himself; instead, the interviewer presented the names to him, and he had to place them in order. This approach led to some surprising outcomes, particularly in the placement of Cristiano Ronaldo, one of the most prolific goal-scorers and set-piece specialists in football history.

A Ranking That Sparked Debate

As the names were revealed, Kroos made some intriguing choices that quickly stirred discussion among football fans. One of the most notable aspects of his list was the placement of Lionel Messi ahead of Cristiano Ronaldo. The Argentine maestro secured the fifth spot, while Ronaldo, known for his thunderous free kicks, found himself in ninth place.

For many fans, this decision was unexpected. Ronaldo’s ability to score from long-range dead-ball situations is well-documented, with some of his strikes, like the famous knuckleball goal against Portsmouth, considered among the best in history. Yet, Kroos’ ranking suggests he believes there are other specialists who outshone the Portuguese forward in this aspect of the game.

Beckham and Juninho: The Ultimate Specialists

While the Messi-Ronaldo debate stole the headlines, Kroos’ ranking of the top three also garnered significant attention. According to the German, the second and third spots belonged to two of the most iconic set-piece takers: David Beckham and Juninho Pernambucano.

Beckham, a legend for Manchester United, Real Madrid, and the England national team, built his legacy on his ability to bend free kicks with pinpoint accuracy. His technique and consistency made him one of the most feared set-piece specialists of his era. Meanwhile, Juninho, the Brazilian midfield magician, was revered for his incredible ability to strike the ball in a way that defied physics, making him one of the most unpredictable free-kick takers in history.

Honoring Zidane and Ronaldinho

Kroos also made sure to pay tribute to footballing icons who left an indelible mark on the game. Zinedine Zidane, his former coach and one of the most elegant players to ever grace the pitch, was placed in fourth position. Despite not being known primarily for his free kicks, Zidane had a knack for delivering crucial set-piece goals throughout his career.

Similarly, Ronaldinho, the Brazilian genius whose flair and creativity mesmerized fans worldwide, secured the sixth spot. Known for his dazzling footwork and audacious free-kick techniques, Ronaldinho often caught goalkeepers off guard with his unorthodox approach.

Wesley Sneijder and Kroos’ Humility

Another unexpected inclusion was Wesley Sneijder in eighth place. The Dutch maestro, renowned for his passing and shooting ability, was a consistent threat from free kicks during his time at clubs like Inter Milan and Real Madrid.

As for himself, Kroos humbly placed his name at number ten, a decision that amused the interviewer. Known for his precision and technique, Kroos has scored some memorable free kicks in his career, but his decision to rank himself last highlighted his modesty. The presenter couldn’t help but remark, “You’re so humble!”

Roberto Carlos: The Undisputed King

The biggest revelation of the ranking was Kroos’ number-one pick: Roberto Carlos. The former Real Madrid left-back was famous for his thunderous strikes, most notably his jaw-dropping free kick against France in 1997, which defied logic and physics.

Kroos, who played alongside Carlos at Real Madrid during testimonial matches, expressed his admiration for the Brazilian. “He’s a friend of mine, and he absolutely deserves this spot,” he said. Considering Carlos’ ability to strike a ball with unparalleled power and swerve, few would argue against Kroos’ choice.

A Statement on Ronaldo’s Free Kicks?

While the ranking was meant to be a fun and engaging exercise, it also raised eyebrows regarding Kroos’ views on Ronaldo’s free-kick abilities. The Portuguese star, now 40, has built a reputation as a prolific goal scorer, yet Kroos’ decision to place him ninth suggests that he may not consider Ronaldo’s set-piece prowess among the absolute elite.

This decision has already sparked debates on social media, with fans passionately defending their favorites. Some argue that Ronaldo’s sheer volume of free-kick goals should place him higher, while others point out that his conversion rate has declined in recent years.

The Endless Debate Continues

Like any ranking of football legends, Kroos’ list is bound to be controversial. Every fan has their own opinion on who the greatest free-kick taker is, and with so many exceptional specialists in history, it’s nearly impossible to create a universally accepted ranking.

Regardless of the debates it has ignited, Kroos’ list serves as a reminder of the incredible talent the game has produced. From Beckham’s curlers to Juninho’s unpredictable strikes, from Zidane’s finesse to Roberto Carlos’ sheer power, the art of the free kick remains one of the most thrilling aspects of football.

One thing is for certain—whether you agree with Kroos or not, his ranking has reignited discussions about some of the most unforgettable moments in football history. And in the end, that’s exactly what makes these debates so enjoyable.

So, what do you think? Does Ronaldo deserve a higher spot? Should Messi have been placed above Beckham? Join the debate and share your thoughts!