Sami Khedira was a disciplined and energetic central midfielder who provided the balance and drive for several of Europe’s leading sides. He came through at VfB Stuttgart, helping the club to a Bundesliga title, before moves to Real Madrid and then Juventus brought a haul of major honours.
A tireless presence who covered ground and protected his back line, he was a key member of the Germany side that won the 2014 World Cup, valued for the industry and tactical intelligence that complemented his side’s more creative talents.