Kroos reacts as Spanish gem Gabri Veiga joins Al-Ahli
Real Madrid midfielder Toni Kroos has reacted to the shocking news of La Liga prodigy Gabriel Veiga completing a switch to Saudi Pro League side Al-Ahli from Celta Vigo.
Celta Vigo and Spain U-21 midfielder Veiga enjoyed an impressive full debut season with the Spanish club in La Liga, helping them retain their top-flight status with two goals in their final day win over champions FC Barcelona. He scored 11 league goals for the side and was a part of the Spain U-21 squad that finished second in the UEFA Euro U-21.
Veiga’s performances for Celta caught the eyes of Europe’s best sides, with Liverpool, Chelsea and Manchester City credited with interest in the early days of the window. He had a release clause of €40m in his contract, and he seemed to be on his way to the Premier League.
In the past week, Napoli reached an agreement with Celta Vigo to pay €34m for the 21-year-old Spaniard, but the deal fell through at the final stages despite both sides reaching an initial agreement. News then emerged that the midfielder has agreed on a move to Saudi side Al-Ahli, where he will play with Edouard Mendy, Riyad Mahrez, Roberto Firmino, Allan Saint-Maximin and others. He will also play under top young European manager Matthias Jaissle, who was previously in charge of RB Salzburg.
In an Instagram post from Fabrizio Romano confirming the move, Kroos commented “Embarrassing”, showing his disgust at the move. The German midfielder is not one to shy away from calling out his fellow players, having done the same to Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang in the past.
Celta Vigo manager Rafa Benitez has defended the move, saying that it will change the player’s life and also benefit the Spanish club financially, and was therefore justified.
