Football
Reuters 6y

Juventus' Sami Khedira: Germany's World Cup exit 'still weighs on me'

Germany midfielder Sami Khedira said he is still bothered by the national team's exit from the World Cup in the group stage.

Khedira, 31, won the World Cup with Germany in 2014 but was among a number of players who were sharply criticised for their performances in June.

It was Germany's earliest exit at a World Cup in 80 years and it left the national team future of several players, including Khedira, in doubt.

"After a good season and nine goals with Juventus and with full fitness, I played my two worst matches at the World Cup," Khedira wrote on Instagram. "That was really bad. That we did not work together as a team and were eliminated in the group stage still weighs on me."

Germany finished last in their group with a win over Sweden and defeats to Mexico and South Korea. Khedira played in both defeats but was dropped against Sweden.

Khedira wrote that the criticism of Germany's performance "is justified" but believes he can still contribute to the team if he is selected.

"It must continue to be an honour for any active player to play for this country, this association and this team," Khedira wrote. "If there are better players at the moment then I will accept it, but should I be nominated because the coach believes I can help the [team], then for me, it is always an honour and an obligation."

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