DPA
Former Germany international Julian Draxler has explained his sudden departure from the pitch to the dressing room during a recent Qatar Expo Stars League match for his new club Al Ahli with an injury, after the incident had made big waves.
Draxler came on as a substitute in the second half and scored two goals in the 4-2 defeat against Qatar SC before leaving shortly before the final whistle without being substituted after playing a backpass.
Internet speculation ranged from frustration to a stomach bug but Draxler told Sky TV: "I felt my muscle. And the coach could not make any more substitutions. That’s why I left the pitch, to prevent a worse injury. That’s all.”
Al Ahli confirmed this by saying in a statement that Draxler’s injury was the reason he didn’t start the match and then left the pitch, after all three allowed substitutions had been made.
It added: "In the 87th minute, the player told the coach and the team doctor that he felt muscle pain and would not be able to complete the match. The coach and doctor allowed him to leave the field.
"Al-Ahli Club confirms that Draxler is one of the best players in terms of discipline, commitment, and respect for the club. All we hope that the player will recover from his injury and return quickly to continue his distinguished performance with the football team.”
Draxler joined Doha-based Al Ahli in summer from Paris Saint-Germain, after playing on loan at Benfica in Lisbon last season.