Why Isn’t Sami Khedira Playing for Germany vs. Argentina?

Star midfielder Sami Khedira was pulled from Germany’s lineup just minutes before the World Cup final against Argentina after suffering a calf injury during warmups.

Christoph Kramer was inserted into the starting lineup in Khedira’s place, but had to come off himself after he suffered a head injury and then later had to be helped off the field.

Christoph Kramer is a late replacement for Sami Khedira, who isn't starting for #GER due to a calf injury. #GERvsARG pic.twitter.com/TVGB0FImre

— ESPN Stats & Info (@ESPNStatsInfo) July 13, 2014

Khedira, who plays for Real Madrid, scored the fifth of seven goals during Germany’s 7-1 rout of Brazil in the semifinals.

He was a transfer target of Arsenal in the English Premiere League before his stock dropped after a knee injury.