Arsenal’s highest paid player, Mesut Ozil has stated that he doesn’t regret joining the club, even if the last several months have been difficult.
The ex-Germany internation is close to the exit door at the Emirates as his role has diminished to the point where he has been removed altogether from the team by manager Mikel Arteta.
Ozil joined Arsenal in 2013, making the move in a reported £42.5 million ($57.5m) move, to much fanfare and adulation by the fans.
He helped the club to three FA Cups and a Community Shield while also earning the club’s player of the season award in 2015-16.
But this season, Arsenal manager Arteta left him out of Arsenal’s Premier League and Europa League squads even though he earns a staggering £300,000 per week at the club.
However, despite the frustrations of having to train with the junior team this season and staying home to watch the senior team play football matches , Ozil says he looks at his time in London fondly, adding that he will never be ashamed of his Arsenal career.
“Of course,” he replied on Twitter when asked if he’s enjoyed his time with the club.
“There have been many ups and downs so far, but all in all I’ll never regret my decision to join Arsenal. And to be honest, the last couple of games before the corona break in February & March 2020 made [it] really a lot [of] fun.
“I’ve enjoyed that time a lot and I’ve thought we’re really on a very positive way. But after the break things unfortunately changed…”
Ozil also reflected on his time with Arsene Wenger, who managed the midfielder from 2013-18 before stepping down and being replaced by Unai Emery.
“Arsene Wenger is a special coach in my career, one that I have total respect for,” Ozil said.
“He is a great coach with numerous titles. Most of all, he’s a great, sincere person.
“I associate him with my greatest Arsenal successes. I will always remember that time with him positively.”
Ozil could join Turkish club, Fenerbahce in January or an American club but he ruled out joining eternal rivals of the Gunners’, Tottenham.
When asked to choose between Tottenham or no club at all, Ozil replied: “Easy question. Retire!”
By Jide N.