Julian Draxler has admitted that he decided to remain at Schalke 04 because he was concerned that leaving would have damaged his hopes of making the Germany squad for the 2014 World Cup.
The midfielder was linked with moves to Arsenal and Chelsea during the transfer window but opted to stay in the Bundesliga.
"The World Cup will take place at the end of the season and it always takes time to settle at a new club. In addition, I feel very good at Schalke, although our early season form has been poor," he told FIFA's official website.
Despite this, Draxler did admit that it was a tough decision.
He added: "It was not an easy decision. You never know whether you will ever get such an offer again."
Schalke are 13th in the league after four matches.
Written by
Gary Peters
Gary Peters
