Sami Khedira, the former German international footballer, has embarked on a new journey as an entrepreneur after hanging up his boots in 2021. In a recent interview with Gazzetta dello Sport, Khedira shared insights into his post-football life and his new venture in the coffee industry.
On his retirement, Khedira explained, “I had to stop because of my knee. I couldn’t play at the level I wanted. I respect this sport, so I quit.”
Today, Khedira is an entrepreneur. Besides his football-related activities as a pundit for Dazn Germany, he manages a coffee production company, Balira, founded with partners Felix Ladwig and Ben Doll.
Regarding his continued involvement in football, Khedira stated, “I like having the necessary knowledge for television or for meetings with presidents and clubs. Sometimes on weekends, I watch up to 6-8 matches to study different types of football and get to know players […] I’m open to new adventures. I’m not looking for a company where I can be a figurehead or a mascot; I want to bring knowledge and experience. It’s a matter of role, people, and club. And the right moment.”
On his passion for coffee, Khedira shared, “Before coming to Turin, I preferred cappuccino or latte macchiato; espresso was too strong for me. At Juventus, however, I saw Bonucci, Chiellini, and Buffon always drinking it after lunch. I found it an elegant ritual: I bought a coffee machine at home and became passionate about it.”
Discussing his transition to entrepreneurship, Khedira said, “Yes, I know many start ‘doing business’ when they are active: I don’t judge, but for me, if you are a high-level footballer, you don’t have time to focus on anything else. You play every three days, you train, you travel. As an entrepreneur, you have to invest a lot of energy: when active, I wouldn’t have been able to meet people, see clients, travel…”
Khedira also reflected on his experiences with Carlo Ancelotti, praising the coach’s ability to bring out the best in players. He shared an anecdote about Ancelotti’s faith in him during his injury recovery, leading to a Champions League final appearance.
On the upcoming Real Madrid vs Milan match, Khedira offered his insights, emphasizing the unique atmosphere of the Bernabeu and advising Milan on how to approach the game.
Finally, commenting on a recent Juventus match, Khedira expressed surprise at the team’s defensive approach, stating, “I didn’t expect to see a Juventus forced to defend all the time. Stuttgart is a good team that keeps possession, but it also has weaknesses. They needed to counter-attack, they needed more courage.”
