"I am sad, but thankful"

The season came to a close with an avoidable 15th defeat of the campaign. After taking the lead through Vladimír Darida, the boys allowed Hoffenheim to fight back in the second period and claim the three points. Andrej Kramarić’s last-gasp winner ensured that we head back to Berlin empty-handed. There was, however, an emotional goodbye for Sami Khedira. The World Cup winner called time on his 15-year career on Saturday afternoon. “I am really happy to be able to play once more, and that my body let me play,” said the 34-year-old after the game. “Five really emotional months in Berlin are now at an end for me. Right from the first minute, I felt that were some good lads in this team. This team has plenty of heart and they enjoy their football – they just lacked leadership.” Mathew Leckie also celebrated a goodbye after four years at the club. “I’ve had a good time with Hertha BSC, even if there were some difficult moments for me,” the Australian said.

Mathew Leckie: I’ve had a good time with Hertha BSC, even if there were some difficult moments for me. I have always enjoyed being on the pitch with the boys. The moment when I was taken off was a bit strange. Berlin will always have a special place in my heart, especially because my two children were born here. It was a nice send-off for Sami too, even though we lost. He has a great career behind him; he’s won everything there is to win. He deserves huge respect. I will really enjoy the evening with the lads and after that we’ll see what happens.

Sami Khedira: I am really happy to be able to play once more, and that my body let me play. Obviously I’m a bit sad too, but thankful – both for being on the pitch today and for everything that my career has made possible. Five really emotional months in Berlin are now at an end for me. Right from the first minute, I felt that were some good lads in this team. This team has plenty of heart and they enjoy their football – they just lacked leadership. Every man was important for us. Personally I won’t be carrying on because I always want to do everything at 100%. Now I want to take some space first of all and let things sink in. What I do know for sure, though, is that that I want to remain in football because this sport has given me all that I have. When I return and in which role – time will tell!