Enzo Fernández says Toni Kroos was the hardest opponent he has faced

Fernández singles out Kroos

Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernández has named former Real Madrid playmaker Toni Kroos as the toughest opponent he has come up against so far in his career. A fairly brutal answer for anyone who has spent an afternoon trying to keep up with Madrid’s midfield, but there it is.

Fernández was asked in a recent interview which rival had impressed him most, and he pointed to the German international after facing him in Chelsea’s 2022-23 Champions League meetings with Real Madrid. Madrid came through that tie comfortably, winning 4-0 on aggregate across the two legs.

Modrić also gets his flowers

Fernández also praised Kroos’ long-time midfield partner Luka Modrić, who helped define one of the most successful eras in Real Madrid history. Kroos and Modrić won five Champions League titles together before Kroos retired in 2024.

Speaking on the topic, Fernández said, as relayed by Fabrizio Romano:

“The opponent player that impressed me the most? Toni Kroos.”

“It was Real Madrid vs Chelsea at the Bernabeu, and he was so impressive. Luka Modrić too.”