Arsenal Teen Midfield Target Explains Bundesliga Stay
Julian Draxler has revealed he chose to stay at Schalke because he wants to get as much game time as possible in preparation for the World Cup, despite interest from a number of European clubs.
Arsenal were believed to be one of a few clubs making enquiries over the availability of the 19 year old this summer, with their interest peaking in the hours before deadline day came to a close.
Schalke have made a poor start to the season, having won just one of their first four matches. It was thought that Draxler might reconsider his position after the difficult start but the midfielder clearly has more international goals in mind that may have been hampered by a move to another team this season.
"The World Cup's at the end of the season and you always need time to get used to a new team," he told the FIFA website when asked why he stayed at Schalke.
"On top of that, I'm convinced I'm at the right club with Schalke. We haven't had a great start to the campaign and I was a bit disappointed after the first few games, but I think we took another important step forward after signing Kevin-Prince Boateng. We've got a strong team."
Draxler has been touted by many as Germany's next midfield star and he admitted he is keeping an eye on Arsenal's most recent signing Mesut Ozil as he continues to develop his skills for both his club and country.
When asked about how he thinks the number 10 position has changed over time, Draxler responded: "First of all they have to help out a lot in defence and can't just wait for the ball to come to them. They have to do what's good for the team.
"That game's become too fast for one player to be able to take a step back. But you can tell by watching Mesut [Ozil] that awareness is very important. That's always been the case and it always will be.
"Even though the game's faster, the basic principles will remain the same."
Arsenal could be in for Draxler again come next summer; the youngster has hinted on numerous occasions that he may not stay at Schalke for the entirety of his contract, despite having signed a new deal at the start of the summer to keep him at the club until 2018 with a €45m buyout clause.
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