Real Madrid midfielder Toni Kroos has defended Julen Lopetegui's time in charge.

The Germany international has hailed the Spaniard's work at Madrid, before the latter was dismissed following a 5-1 defeat against Barcelona.

"The beginning of the season was hard, as we were very successful in the past seasons, but many players played at the World Cup and joined later, and Lopetegui was unlucky as well," he said in an interview for LaLiga Santander.

"He did a great job but he had no luck and, if you don't get results, it's not good for the club.

"We've all improved during the last month and now we have the opportunity to fight for titles and that's a good sign."