1. FC Union Berlin can continue to rely on the services of Rani Khedira beyond the summer, having agreed upon an extension of the 29-year-old midfielder's contract.

From rookie to regular, and vice-captain

During the 2021/22 season, his first for Union, Rani Khedira quickly established himself into a regular starter. And now, after 45 competitive matches, he is a mainstay in Urs Fischer's system; it is hard to imagine the Union starting line-up without him in the number eight shirt, anchoring its midfield.

The native Swabian has also continued to play an important role off the pitch, and was named vice-captain of Urs Fischer's team at the start of this season. He has only missed two competitive matches so far in 2022/23.

To coincide with his imminent contract extension, Khedira recently treated himself to his first goal for Union, volleying home the opener in a 2-0 Bundesliga win against Eintracht Frankfurt.

Views on the contract extension

"Union was my first port of call because I feel very comfortable here," said Khedira on signing his new deal. "The coaching and playing teams, as well as the entire club, have ambitious goals and work together as one unit; that's the best basis for continuing to be successful together. So I'm really looking forward to wearing the Union shirt in the future, and giving my all for the club's further success." 

Oliver Ruhnert, managing director of professional football, meanwhile, is also pleased about the contract extension, saying, "Rani is an important component of our squad, both on and off the pitch. We are convinced that his exemplary commitment and his outstanding attitude will continue to give us a lot in the future."