Schurrle Claims Ballack Helped Him

Chelsea star Andre Schurrle has claimed that his impressive World Cup performances were aided by the support from former Germany star Michael Ballack. After making close to 100 appearances for the national team, Ballack is regarded as one of the finest midfielders to have represented the German national team in recent decades. The former Chelsea and Bayern Munich midfielder, though, was not successful as he failed to lift a major trophy with the national team despite reaching finals. Schurrle has made it no secret of the fact that he is a fan of Ballack especially after the midfielder made the move to Chelsea in 2006.

Schurrle has just completed his first season at Chelsea. He may not have lifted a major title with his club last season, but winning the ultimate trophy in the form of the World Cup has brought him a lot of joy. The 23-year-old was expected to play a minor role at the World Cup due to the presence of stars like Thomas Müller and Miroslav Klose. However, he has surprised everyone by scoring three goals in the tournament despite operating mostly as a substitute. This includes two goals against Brazil in the remarkable 7-1 win. Schurrle also set up the winning goal in the World Cup final.

“I am in touch with him all the time. He texts me before every game to wish me luck, and then after the games he sends another message congratulating me. He helps me a lot by giving me tips and that helps in these situations. He was my idol. When he played at Chelsea I watched every match. I then had the pleasure to play in the same side as him at Bayer Leverkusen. That was big for me, it helped me a lot,” said the Chelsea star about his friendship with Ballack.