Can Madrid and Germany cope with Khedira's absence?
Mourinho brought Khedira to Madrid from Stuttgart and made him the team’s focal point in the central midfield. The addition of Khedira helped Real Madrid get stronger in the field, especially against Barcelona, who dominated their opponents in the midfield area.
Sami Khedira had been an imposing figure in the midfield for both Madrid and Germany, with his excellent technique with or without the ball and passing skills. The most impressive thing about him is his great work rate and big stamina.
He is not a hard tackling midfielder but he has no qualms about tracking back. He doesn’t just sits deep and shield the back four but instead, sees a decent amount of the ball in the final third. His movement into more advanced positions also allowed Xabi Alonso the time and space in midfield to spray passes forward and flourish.
He has excellently fulfilled the role of sweeper in midfield, recovering an impressive number of balls for his team. In charge of breaking up play rather than creating it, his role may not have been glamorous or eye catching as many of his teammates; but he has played the most important role for Madrid and Germany. By controlling the game from the midfield
Alongside Lahm, Neuer and Özil, Khedira was one of only a handful of players whose selection had been absolutely guaranteed in the Germany side. Since Euro 2012, Khedira has been the heartbeat of Löw’s team.
It will be very hard for Real Madrid to achieve its goals without the hard-working German. Khedira, Luka Modric and Xabi Alonso were expected to form a dynamic midfield trio, which Ancelotti hoped would overwhelm opponents with their energy, intelligence, strength and quality. One of three young players — Isco, Asier Illarramendi and Casemiro — must now assume a great deal of responsibility in Khedira’s absence, but none appear to have earned the manager’s full trust after three months of competitive action.
Same is the case for Löw who will have to find Khedira’s replacement which is a job easier said than done.
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