Overview

• On his Einfach mal Luppen podcast, Toni Kroos praised Barcelona’s attractive play but argued that the risk level makes a European exit likely.
• He said that on off-nights for Pedri, Lamine Yamal, or Raphinha, any team could hurt them and knock them out of the Champions League.
• Kroos pointed to a recurring drop-off after the 75th minute, saying the team stays open instead of closing spaces when tired.
• He cited last season’s elimination by Inter Milan as precedent and added that he does not expect similar trouble in LaLiga due to their domestic dominance.
• Scrutiny has grown after defeats to PSG and Sevilla, with injuries and a thin squad tied to financial constraints limiting rotation and tactical flexibility.