The German stopper has warned his former Borussia Dortmund colleague that he may find it difficult to achieve continuity in the Spanish capital after an injury-hit baptism of fire
Schalke defender Christoph Metzelder admits he harbors fears that Nuri Sahin may never be given the opportunity to truly establish himself at Real Madrid.The 31-year-old played for the Blancos between 2007 and 2010 but made only 23 league appearances during an injury-hit spell, and he feels there is every chance the midfielder may encounter similar problems as his career at the Santiago Bernabeu begins to unfold.
"If you arrive and don't take off immediately, no-one will wait for you at this club," Metzelder told AS. "Real Madrid won nine of their first 10 games, so you need to be successful from the beginning. I think it will be difficult for him.
"He is a player that lacks some pace, but a very good player nonetheless. With Khedira next to him, he would do even better. He is not a strategist like Xabi, but more like Ozil, albeit playing a little deeper."
Metzelder then reflected on his own experience at Real Madrid, but despite his stint being plagued by fitness issues, the defender also believes being a free transfer did not help his cause, in comparison to the likes of Pepe and Fabio Cannavaro who commanded large fees.
"My lack of continuity was not only down to injuries, but the competition was so great. There were situations where I felt every confidence from the club, and some when I did not.
"To succeed in Madrid, you have to be more than just a good player. You have to be a star and demand that the club pays big money for you. Me being a free transfer was a disadvantage," he concluded.
Sahin has registered just five appearances for Madrid this season, since his summer arrival from Dortmund, scoring once in the Copa del Rey.
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