Toni Kroos Real Madrid ‘not affected’ by Wayne Rooney’s prediction against Manchester City

Toni Kroos has addressed Wayne Rooney’s ‘destroy’ projection for Real Madrid in their first-leg tie against Manchester City in the Champions League.

Man City return to European action next Tuesday when they meet holders Real Madrid in the first leg of their semi-final encounter at the Bernabeu.

The game presents another opportunity for Pep Guardiola who continues to hunt for a first trophy since joining the Cityzens in 2016.

The La Liga side stands in the way of his club, but Rooney, who won the Champions League with Manchester United, believes the Blues would make light work of the 14-time champions.

In his column for The Times, he wrote: “Manchester City will not only beat Real Madrid in the semi-final of the Champions League, but they are going to destroy them.

“Of course, I could be wrong, but I think City are on another level.

“You can never rule out a team with Real Madrid’s experience and history, but I wouldn’t bet on them. I think this is City’s year.”

When asked about Rooney’s big prediction, Kroos insists it has no effect on him or his teammates.

“I think it’s always the same, I remember they said one or two things last year, nobody expected us to win it and we were able to do so. Apart from the words he said, Rooney is a guy I like a lot,” he said.

“It doesn’t affect us or motivate us more, because it’s impossible to be more motivated.”

Real beat City at this stage last season en route to winning their 14th title as they defeated Liverpool in the final.