Joining the Dortmund academy at the age of eight, he rose through the youth ranks and caught the eye of the international set-up, whom he represented from U-15 level up to his senior debut against Sweden in 2010.

Either on the flanks or through the centre, Gotze's creative talent quickly made him the star of the Dortmund side and he picked up his first title in his first full season in the side. Much more is expected of a player that Dortmund legend Matthias Sammer proclaimed as "one of the best talents that we've ever had"

Strengths: He has an ability to run at the opposition with pace and skill, which is helped by the fact he is naturally two-footed. Technically excellent and with a good eye for goal.

Weaknesses: Still learning the game, he occasionally picks the wrong pass and is not the biggest physically.

Career high: Winning the 2010-11 German Bundesliga title and scoring six goals in 29 starts and making 15 assists.

Career low: Forced to wait for his chance in the Dortmund first-team.

Style: Tricky, technical, fast; a potential phenomenon.

Quotes: "It is not possible to stop Mario Gotze. There is no one playing better than him. He runs through opponents as though they aren't there. He has the same assets as Lionel Messi in terms of his technique and understanding of the game. He is an instinctive footballer - just like Messi." German legend Franz Beckenbauer on Gotze.

Trivia: Gotze has the nickname 'Gotzinho' in the dressing room and lives at home with his parents.