Football is an important part of my life, but not everything.
As top players, we earn a lot of money, but sometimes we pay a hefty price with our health. I would give away all the money to be healthy again, to be able to do my job. To do what I love: to play football.
In my childhood, I always played as Barcelona on the PlayStation.
Personally, I've always got along great with Mesut, found him extremely pleasant as a human being. He always supported me and was one of the best players I've ever played with.
I see myself as a player for whom there are no limits.
You never know what will happen during a tournament: things like injuries, for example.
I was born in Dortmund and grew up here, so you become automatically a black and yellow. I played here for many years in the youth ranks, but at first I did not have the chance to become a professional football player at BVB and to realize my dream.
Since my childhood, I dreamed of wearing the Black and Yellow.
I am very happy to be playing for Dortmund.
My idol was always Tomas Rosicky. He used to be phenomenal. He had such a good eye for an opening and knew where his team-mates were, and he was so quick.
I opted for BVB because I need my regular environment where I feel at home. It has nothing to do that I am not able to handle the pressure or what is permanently speculated. We are also measured in wins and trophies here at Dortmund.
It is truly an amazing feeling to play in the final of the Champions League with the BVB at Wembley. Ahead of my transfer to Dortmund, I definitely hadn't thought about this being a possible scenario.
For Ozil's part, he certainly has the class to compete with Ronaldo.
I have learned a lot a lot in my three years at Gladbach and developed a feeling for what is best for me. I owe the club a lot.
I think it's very important that you don't start thinking about your life after football when you are 33 or 34. There are many more amazing things in this world, and it's important to think about these things before you retire.
I think if you're not strong, in life or in football, not every day is going to be going up and seeing the sunshine.
Isco is a genius. He is a natural and a huge talent.
I was injured many times, but life is like this, and I have to accept this.
I think it's important to be thinking about your personal life and your family not just when you've retired but also during your career.
Dortmund are the best club for me.
