Madrid exit was emotional – Khedira

The German revealed his love for the club after departing but is looking forward to his new adventure in Italy

New Juventus midfielder Sami Khedira has admitted his decision to leave Real Madrid was a hard one but is confident of winning more trophies in Turin.

The 28-year-old joined the club in 2010 and was a key figure under Jose Mourinho, but was used sparingly by Carlo Ancelotti after recovering from a serious knee injury suffered in 2013.

As a result, the club opted not to renew his contract and he has subsequently joined Juventus on a free transfer, though he harbours no ill-feeling towards his old employers.

“It was no easy decision, that’s no secret. But it is easier when you are the one who decides,” Khedira told reporters on Wednesday. “It was hard, emotional. Everything else would be a lie. But it shows how much I liked it there. 

“I would be happy if people there would say: ‘He is one of us. He is a Madridista.’  I did everything for the club for five years, and I hope that people acknowledge that. Real Madrid is in my heart and it will stay there forever.

“While I was injured I thought about how and where I would continue my career. Half a year ago it was clear that I wanted a new challenge. It was no decision against Madrid but a decision for something new.

“Juve is a fantastic club, a club with a great tradition, a bright present and a promising future. It’s no coincidende that the team has climbed among Europe’s elite clubs again. I am sure that Juve will compete for titles again in Europe.

“I want to play my part in doing so. I am looking forward to a new challenge in a new club, a new league and a new country. I can’t wait to get to know the club and my new team-mates.”

The Germany international moves to Turin on a free and is the Bianconeri’s second summer signing following Paulo Dybala’s €40 million arrival earlier.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *