I did not leave Madrid for Money, says Khedira

     Juventus midfielder Sami Khedira has hit out at critics saying his move to the club was fueled by money.

"It hurt me when people said that. Real Madrid offered me a huge contract , one in which I could have eventually earned more.

My decision to leave was not about money," the 28-year-old told German Newspapaer Welt am Sonntag.

He added, "I can't be accused of acting disloyally or improperly. At one point I told my agent, Jörg Neubauer, who couldn't be a bigger Real Madrid fan, that I wanted a change. I was tired, because at the end it was extremely exhausting. However, I have to say that overall I had five fantastic years there."

 He acknowledged Real Madrid's image as a global brand, and said the expectations for playing for the club was difficult at times.

• Juventus sign Sami Khedira from Real Madrid on a free transfer

"The obligation of having to win everything at all costs is something I have never experienced.

"Real Madrid has an image abroad that words cannot describe. The club is a magnet. No matter where you are there will be thousands of people who are with the club.

"I have experienced it myself. When I look for a holiday destination I always look for a place far away. But no matter how remote the place is, in any corner of the world, people always recognize me."

Khedira was involved in Germany's 7-0 win over Gibraltar on Saturday in the Euro 2016 qualifying game.

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