TONI KROOS has lashed out at John Obi Mikel on social media after being seemingly criticised by the Chelsea icon.
Germany hero Kroos was left smarting after some allegedly stinging words by Mikel on his career.
The pair both played at the highest level, with Kroos starring for Bayern Munich and Real Madrid.
The 36-year-old won seven league titles and six Champions League at club level.
And he also helped Germany win the World Cup in 2014 before retiring from football in 2024.
As for Mikel, 38, he spent his prime years at Chelsea and won two Premier Leagues and a Champions League at Stamford Bridge.
FURIOUS ROW
Eni Aluko & Simon Jordan clash as she accuses Laura Woods of ‘gaslighting’
TURBO
Win a stunning Volvo XC90 + £5,000 or £45,000 cash from just 18p with our code
He also lifted an Afcon title with Nigeria in 2013.
But he appeared to cause a ruffle this week by allegedly declaring that he was a better player than Kroos.
Mikel reportedly insisted that his counterpart was “average” at best.
And Kroos only got more recognition because he played for Real Madrid.
BEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERS
Mikel allegedly said: “Toni Kroos was an average midfielder. I was better than him.
“The big difference is that I didn’t play for Real Madrid.’
Now, Kroos has fired back at Mikel on social media with a scathing reply.
Taking to Instagram Stories, he re-posted Mikel’s alleged quotes while also firing back in style.
Kroos declared: “And why didn’t you play for Real Madrid then?”
Fans loved the response, with one saying: “Cold reply.”
Another declared: “Mikel took a cheap shot, Kroos went cheaper.”
One noted: “Mikel throwing shade for no reason.”
Another added: “Two great midfielders, two different styles.”