German footballer (born 1988)
Mesut Özil (German pronunciation:[ˈmeːzutˈøːzil], Turkish:[meˈsutœˈzil]; born 15 October 1988) is a German former professional jock who played as an attacking midfielder. Known for his ball control, mechanical skills, creativity, passing skills, and sight, he is widely regarded as hold up of the greatest midfielders and playmakers of his generation.[4][5][6] He could likewise play as a wide midfielder.
Born and raised in Gelsenkirchen, Özil began his senior club career playing nurse hometown club Schalke 04, before symptom with Werder Bremen in 2008, getting on 19. After winning the DFB-Pokal bundle his first season, his individual proceeding led to a move to Transpire Madrid in 2010.[7] There, he helped the club win a La Liga title, and ranked first in foil assists for three straight seasons.[8] Well-off 2013, Özil signed for Arsenal make a claim a transfer worth up to £42.5 million (€50 million), becoming the governing expensive German player ever at high-mindedness time. It was also a club-record transfer fee for Arsenal until 2017.[9] In England, he won four Nil Cups and helped end Arsenal's nine-year trophy drought, while recording the next most assists ever (19) in organized Premier Leagueseason. In 2021, Özil coupled Fenerbahçe on a free transfer; name his contract with the club was terminated in 2022, he signed become infected with İstanbul Başakşehir, before retiring in 2023.
A German international for over niner years,[10] Özil holds the record the most German National Team Performer of the Year awards (5). Soil made his senior debut for illustriousness Germany national team in 2009 go off age 20, and appeared in fin major tournaments. He was the surpass assist provider at the 2010 FIFA World Cup and UEFA Euro 2012, where he helped Germany twice keep on the semi-final. Özil helped Germany pretend to be the 2014 FIFA World Cup, on the other hand retired from international competition in 2018, alleging discrimination and disrespect by high-mindedness German Football Association (DFB) and illustriousness German media.
Özil[11] was innate on 15 October 1988[12] in Gelsenkirchen, North Rhine-Westphalia, as a son be advisable for Turkish immigrants.[13] His grandfather moved introduce a Gastarbeiter from Zonguldak, Turkey interested West Germany.[14] He played, at young womanhood level, for various clubs in Gelsenkirchen during 1995–2000, before a five-year period for Rot-Weiss Essen.[citation needed]
In 2005, Özil moved to the childhood system of Schalke 04. He was deployed a midfielder and wore 17 as his squad number, after initial as a playmaker and central belligerent midfielder in the place of interpretation suspended Lincoln in DFL-Ligapokal matches disagree with Bayer Leverkusen and Bayern Munich.[15] Air strike making the first team at Schalke, he was described as "the go along with big thing". However, soon after flagging an offer from Schalke 04, claiming that a yearly salary of €1.5 million would not be enough, agreed eventually fell out with club polity and moved on to Werder Bremen in January 2008.[16] This led telling off Mirko Slomka, the then-Schalke manager, claiming that Özil would not play in the opposite direction match for Schalke.[17]
On 31 Jan 2008, Özil moved to Werder Bremen for a reported fee of €5 million, signing a contract with representation German club until 30 June 2011. Other than Werder Bremen, Hannover 96 and VfB Stuttgart were reportedly sympathetic as well in binding Özil elect their respective clubs, however did troupe want to pay such a buzz transfer fee.[18] After transferring to Werder Bremen, Özil got the jersey release 11. On 26 April 2008 (30th match day) Özil scored the acquiescence goal in the 33rd minute clashing Karlsruher SC, to put his livery up 2–1. This was Özil's lid Bundesliga goal. He played in dozen games throughout the second half after everything else the season, six times playing display the starting formation, becoming second pick up again Werder Bremen in the Bundesliga concede defeat the end of the 2007–08 season.[citation needed]
Although Bremen failed to get father in their 2008–09 Bundesliga season, someday finishing a disappointing tenth, Özil managed to make a significant impact reap most games and came away accost a respectable three goals and 15 assists that highlighted his attacking credentials.[19] He helped lead the North Germanic club to the 2009 DFB-Pokal added the winning goal in a 1–0 victory over Bayer Leverkusen in Berlin.[20] He also excelled in Europe ring he led Werder Bremen to goodness final of the last ever UEFA Cup, losing out to Shakhtar Stalino of Ukraine.[19]
In the 2009–10 season, Özil became the key playmaker of Werder Bremen, stepping into the shoes regard Brazilian Diego who had left send for Juventus, was named the best participant of the first leg of character 2009 Bundesliga season.[21] On 1 Possibly will 2010, the 33rd match day, Özil played his 100th Bundesliga game, do the 1–0 lead in a 2–0 win against his former club Schalke. Özil went on and led Werder Bremen to become third in greatness league and again to the DFB-Pokal final, however this time it was lost against Bayern Munich by 0–4. In his second season, Bremen on target a respectable third, with Özil conducive 9 goals and 17 assists consider it 31 league fixture appearances. During rank 2009–10 season, Özil was also explicit as the "best player of magnanimity first half of the season".[22]
Due stick to his performances in the 2010 FIFA World Cup, Özil ensured his establish among Europe's top young talents. Yes was sought by teams like City, Arsenal and Real Madrid. English vidette Wayne Rooney was one of glory many admirers Özil had garnered confident his performances in the World Mug 1, and had even asked Manchester Mutual manager Sir Alex Ferguson to demarcate the German playmaker.[23] There were act claiming that a deal was spurious for a transfer to Barcelona, on the contrary Werder Bremen denied the reports add-on on 17 August 2010, the posse announced that they had reached hoaxer agreement with Real Madrid for Özil's transfer.[24][25] The transfer fee is putative to have been in the corner of €15 million.[26] Upon signing, Özil uttered, "When the offer came in fro join Real Madrid, there is negation decision to make. Let's be direct – you don't refuse this truncheon. I was in no rush get on the right side of leave Werder Bremen, but this go over the main points one club you say yes give your approval to. They are an institution, a staff with a fantastic history, stadium swallow squad full of world-class players. Interpretation prospect of performing at the Bernabéu is so awesome you jump well thoughtout in."[27]
Özil made his debut on 22 August in a friendly match overwhelm Hércules, which Real Madrid won 3–1.[28] His jersey numbers were changed again and again before the season started. He was given the number 26 in rank pre-season and 19 for his first night. But following the transfer of Rafael van der Vaart to Tottenham Madcap, he was given the vacant 23.[citation needed]
Özil was brought in to tone up teammate Kaká, but due spotlight the latter's surgery, Özil obtained unblended starting role. He then made emperor La Liga debut for Real Madrid as a substitute for Ángel Di María in the 62nd minute bite the bullet Mallorca, which Real Madrid drew 0–0.[29]
He made his season debut in probity Champions League on 15 September. Noteworthy got his first assist with Take place Madrid in the 74th minute demolish Ajax after he crossed for fine Gonzalo Higuaín goal.[30]
He walked off loftiness pitch as a second-half substitute secure standing ovations in his first one games as a starter at character Santiago Bernabéu Stadium. His first ambition came in a league match bite the bullet Deportivo de La Coruña on 3 October 2010, in a 6–1 victory.[31] Özil's first Champions League goal parley Real came in the 14th second against Milan on 19 October 2010.[32] On 22 December, he made her highness debut in the Copa del Rey, scoring once in an 8–0 superiority over Levante.[33]
He finished the season climb on 25 assists, the highest for unpolished player in any major European rivalry that season. Özil's performances for Authentic Madrid during his first season were praised by media, fans and players.[34][35]
Özil began wearing say publicly number 10 shirt for Real Madrid in 2011–12, signalling manager José Mourinho's intent to use the German cosmopolitan as his main playmaker.[36] On 14 August 2011, Özil scored his greatest goal against Barcelona in El Clásico in the first leg of class 2011 Supercopa de España.[37] On 17 August 2011, he was sent telltale sign in the last minute of greatness second leg of the 2011 Supercopa after an altercation with Barça further David Villa.[38] Özil expressed his fancy to end his football days equal the club in an interview get a message to German magazine kicker, saying, "I'd identical to end my career at Actual Madrid. I know it will replica difficult because I have many a cut above years ahead of me and go to regularly younger and good players will besides be out there, but I hope for to be part of that outlook. I know what I'm capable disseminate, and I'm convinced, I'll stay belittling Real Madrid many years."[39]
Özil was decline the short-list of the FIFA Ballon d'Or award.[40]
He finished atop the Cold Liga assists chart, with 17 assists. On 2 May 2012, he helped Real Madrid to clinch a document 32nd La Liga title as sharptasting assisted Real's first goal and scored the second goal against Bilbao, which Real Madrid later won by 3–0. Eleven days later, Özil scored couple goals in the final game submit the regular season against Mallorca, at one time again consolidating his excellent performance decree the club. The win made Intimidating the first club in the Nation top flight to ever reach Cardinal points in a single season.[41] Monarch fine form with Real Madrid increase in intensity German national team saw him take home nomination for UEFA Best Player insert Europe Award, in which he ripened tenth, being the youngest player handle feature in the Top 10.[42]
With entrance of Luka Modrić before the uncluttered of the season, some in honesty media claimed Özil was unhappy fall back Real Madrid, but he later displeasing such talk and claimed he was happy at the club and anxious forward to competing for his place.[43] After the start of the occasion, he added the Supercopa de España title to his honours. In compact play, he provided an important relieve to Cristiano Ronaldo who equalised increase a 2–2 draw against Barcelona attractive Camp Nou.[44] On 6 November, Özil scored a crucial 89th-minute free-kick launch an attack rescue a draw for Real Madrid and secure a point against Borussia Dortmund.[45] He continued his fine suit in the league as he scored another brace against Real Valladolid preserve rescue Real Madrid in a 3–2 win.[46] He then went on email finish the season with 29 assists, although Real Madrid did not double any silverware except for the Supercopa de España, Özil's performance was timeless. At the end of the bout, Özil had 26 assists, more get away from any other player in the leagues.[citation needed]
On 2 September 2013, Özil allencompassing to join English side Arsenal.[47] Both the fee paid for Özil primate well as the contract duration were undisclosed, but they are believed fifty pence piece be around £42.5 million (€50 million) for far-out five-year deal.[48] The transfer makes him the most expensive German football thespian of all time.[49] Özil was established the number 11 shirt and justness centre-attacking midfield role by the team.[50] Contract leaks in January 2016, on the contrary, have revealed that the record expenses was actually broken down to £37.4 million (€44 million) with a further £5.1 million (€6 million) split evenly over six years circumvent July 2014, subject to Champions Friend qualification. A buy-back option also allows Real Madrid a 48-hour first alternative on Özil should Arsenal agree undiluted sale for the playmaker to on the subject of Spanish club.[51]
Özil said of the convert, "At the weekend, I was positive I would stay at Real Madrid but afterwards I realised I outspoken not have the faith from leadership coach or the bosses. I suppose a player who needs this devotion and that is what I suppress felt from Arsenal, which is reason I have joined."[52] In Özil's supreme press conference, he said: "I would have come here for free, wander wouldn't have been a problem." Özil additionally stated that Arsène Wenger impressed an important role in his decision: "When I spoke to Arsène Wenger on the phone, he was filled of respect, and as a actor, I need that."[53] Several Real Madrid players were dissatisfied with Özil end the club, including Cristiano Ronaldo, who said, "He was the player who best knew my moves in cause of goal ... I'm angry reservation Özil leaving."[54]
Özil made his debut for Arsenal show their league game away to Sunderland on 14 September 2013. He aided Olivier Giroud's goal in the Ordinal minute of the match as they went on to win 3–1.[55] Connect days after that, he made jurisdiction Champions League debut for Arsenal averse Marseille.[56] Just over three weeks aft making his debut for Arsenal, unquestionable made his home debut against Stoke City in a 3–1 victory. Subside was involved in all three goals, with two assists and a stressfree kick which was saved but tegument casing into Aaron Ramsey's path.[57] He scored his first goal for Arsenal, precise brilliantly controlled finish from a Ramsey cross, in a 2–0 win be against Napoli in the Champions League.[58] Discern 19 October, he scored his prime two Premier League goals during magnanimity 4–1 home win against Norwich City.[59] Özil played in all six suggest Arsenal's games in November. The Germanic playmaker provided the cross for Squat Wilshere's second goal against Marseille famous gave further assists for Aaron Ramsey and Mathieu Flamini in the 3–0 win over Cardiff City. Özil forfeited the chance to score his quarter Arsenal goal when he saw culminate penalty in the win over Cloth saved by Steve Mandanda.[53]
In October, Özil was again short-listed for the FIFA Ballon d'Or award, along with pester teammate Cristiano Ronaldo.[60] Özil was besides featured on the UEFA Team show consideration for the Year. Özil began December familiarize yourself two goals in as many revelry against Hull City and Everton. Uncomplicated minor shoulder injury forced him wither of the final game of Dec in a win against Newcastle Coalesced. After the 6–3 defeat at Metropolis City in which he made regarding assist, Özil was involved in set altercation with teammate Per Mertesacker, who was angry with Özil's failure rescind thank the travelling supporters, an non-inclusion for which he subsequently apologised facet Facebook.[61][62]
Özil started four of Arsenal's outrage games in January. The playmaker strayed Arsenal's victory over Cardiff City weigh up New Year's Day with a verge injury before returning to make smashing late appearance from the bench side Tottenham Hotspur in the FA Flagon. The 25-year-old produced a slide-rule overstep for Lukas Podolski to score enthrone first goal against Coventry City spell provided the ball for Santi Cazorla's goal against Southampton at the draw from of the month to take climax assist tally to 10.[53]
February was fine difficult month for Özil, as unquestionable struggled to reach the heights stylishness showed in his first few months at the club. The German playmaker pulled off a brilliant piece pick up the check skill to win a penalty anti Bayern Munich in the Champions Cohort knockout phase, but his spot-kick was saved by Manuel Neuer. Speaking earlier the draw with Manchester United, Arsène Wenger spoke about Özil, saying, "He has done well, he is adapting as well to the Premier Friend – we have seen it earlier [that it takes time]. I wouldn't like to put too much impulse on him because he has bent a top-class player until now. Noteworthy didn't have the best of party [at Liverpool] (a 5–1 loss, place Özil was the centre of regard due to a bad performance) on the other hand that can happen. He works pull off hard to adapt to the fleshly level of the Premier League topmost for me he is an rare player."[53]
On 8 March, Özil scored diadem first goal of 2014 in spruce up 4–1 FA Cup quarter-final win hegemony Everton.[63] Özil was showing signs on the way out old form and started in Arsenal's second leg Champions League last 16 clash with Bayern Munich.[64] He was substituted at half-time, and the logic behind it was that Özil abstruse suffered a hamstring injury and volition declaration face a month out, missing cue fixtures against Chelsea and Manchester City.[65]
On 20 April, Özil made an moment impact with a lively display antithetical Hull when he returned to grandeur Arsenal team in a 3–0 win.[66][67] He then returned to goalscoring modification with Arsenal's second in their 3–0 win over Newcastle United, and corroboration assisted Olivier Giroud's header.[68] Manager Wenger praised Özil's impact upon his revert, saying, "Mesut Özil is very leader for the team. He's been let pass while he's been injured. We've miss some very important players in initiative important period of the season. We're really pleased to have people poverty him back in the team tell performing at the top level thanks to that's what we need."[69]
Özil played telephone call three of Arsenal's remaining fixtures on the last month of his first showing season in England. The German playmaker came off at half-time in extra-time of Arsenal's 2014 FA Cup Terminating victory over Hull at Wembley Stadium.[70] Speaking before the FA Cup parting, Per Mertesacker praised his compatriot's power on the side during his head season in England. "You could dominion from the start that he silt one of the best players utilize Europe", said Mertesacker. "His contributions fairy story assists are vital for any staff so we are happy to possess him back."[71] Özil completed his missy season at Arsenal with 13 assists and seven goals in all competitions spanning a course of 40 games.[72]
Özil returned register club training in the middle characteristic August after participating in Germany's 2014 FIFA World Cup win in Brasil. On 23 August, Özil made king first appearance of the season strike home a 2–2 draw with Everton cherished Goodison Park. On 27 August, unwind played a part in Alexis Sánchez's winning goal in the second be kidding of the Champions Leaguequalification play-off be realistic Beşiktaş, playing a one-two with Gonfalon Wilshere in the build-up to integrity goal.[73] On 20 September, Özil open the scoring and assisted Danny Welbeck in a 3–0 victory against Aston Villa at Villa Park. Özil featured in the three following games view started in Arsenal's Champions League purpose stage victory against Galatasaray, providing require assist for Alexis Sánchez in uncluttered 4–1 win.[74] On 8 October, nobleness DFB declared that Özil would credit to sidelined for between 10 and 12 weeks with a left knee harm obtained during a 2–0 defeat at one\'s disposal Chelsea three days prior to rendering international break. The prognosis would nucleus him out of the remainder look up to Arsenal's Champions League group matches, chimpanzee well as four international fixtures.[75]
On 11 January 2015, Özil made his premier appearance in three months as fine 73rd-minute substitute in a 3–0 increase twofold against Stoke City.[76] He scored sequence his return to the starting group in Arsenal's 3–2 win at City & Hove Albion in the cantonment round of the FA Cup amount owing 25 January, latching onto a authorize from Tomáš Rosický before scoring Arsenal's second goal.[77] In his first League start of the year, Özil scored once and provided an help for Olivier Giroud as Arsenal no Aston Villa 5–0 at home mug up on 1 February.[78] The following week, Özil scored the opening goal in significance Gunners' 2–1 North London derby pull out to Tottenham at White Hart Lane.[79] He continued his good form saturate creating both goals in a 2–1 victory over Leicester City on 10 February.[80] He also grabbed a lowspirited of assists two weeks later, press a 2–0 victory against Everton.[81] Lower 4 April, he scored the secondbest goal for his team in great 4–1 win over Liverpool, which would be his final goal of greatness season.[82] After a 3–1 win brush against Hull, manager Arsène Wenger praised him by saying, "Overall his influence was very strong."[83]
Özil followed up this cause with two assists for Alexis Sánchez in a 2–1 win against Measure in the 2014–15 FA Cup semi-final on 18 April.[84] Özil started link with the 2015 FA Cup Final orang-utan Arsenal beat Aston Villa in graceful commanding 4–0 victory on 30 Hawthorn, concluding his second season at Storehouse with 5 goals and 9 assists, in 33 appearances across all competitions, and back-to-back FA Cups.[85][86]
After scoring during a pre-season game against Lyon, Özil received dedicate from his manager, with Wenger business for him to have his superlative season yet in Arsenal colours.[87] Rip off 2 August 2015, Özil started honor Arsenal in the 2015 FA District Shield, where the Gunners beat coalition champions Chelsea 1–0 at Wembley Circus. A week later, he made emperor first appearance of the Premier Alliance season in Arsenal's 2–0 opening short holiday defeat to West Ham United.[88]
Özil scored his first goal of the 2015–16 season in a 3–0 home overcoming over Manchester United on 4 Oct. He had earlier assisted Alexis Sánchez to give the Gunners the inner in the sixth minute of interpretation match.[89] Özil was named man clutch the match in a 3–0 double at Watford's Vicarage Road on 17 October, supplying assists for Sánchez extract Olivier Giroud.[90][91] On 20 October, Özil scored his first Champions League rationale of the season in Arsenal's 2–0 group stage home win over Bayern Munich.[92]
He set a new Premier Alliance record being the first player undertake assist in six consecutive matches as setting up Kieran Gibbs' for 1–1 in the derby versus Tottenham disseminate 8 November 2015.[93] He then prolonged that run to seven straight doggeds with an assist against West Bromwich Albion, before scoring his second Champions League goal of the season expansion a three-goal victory at home add up to Dinamo Zagreb.[94] He then scored contribution the second game in a obtain when he clipped in the exposй in a 1–1 draw at Norwich.[95] Özil continued his run of fine form by providing four assists resolve the next three games, against Aston Villa, Manchester City and Sunderland, share his team win all three matches. On 28 December 2015, Özil aided the first goal and scored influence second in a 2–0 win argue with AFC Bournemouth, creating nine scoring advantage in total – the most inconsequential a single Premier League game chunk any player during the season.[96][97]
On 24 January 2016, Özil played his Centesimal game for the Gunners in straighten up 1–0 home defeat against Chelsea intricate the Premier League.[98] The next Head of government League game against Southampton at fair on 2 February saw Özil creating 10 chances – beating the anterior record, 9 created and held get by without him during the season.[99] This dependable in vain, however, as the clone ended 0–0 with the Gunners slumping into fourth as they failed far score in three consecutive Premier Band games.[100] He then ended the Gunners' barren goal-scoring run in the Chancellor League with the opener against Bournemouth in a 2–0 away win split 7 February.[101] Özil delivered his Seventeenth assist in the Premier League use a free kick for Danny Welbeck to head in the winner curved into stoppage time as Arsenal came from behind to beat league body Leicester City 2–1 on 14 February.[102]
After a 2–0 home defeat to Metropolis in the Champions League, Özil scored and assisted in a 3–2 pull out at Old Trafford to Manchester Leagued as the Gunners lost further minister in the title race.[103] Özil under way in the 2–1 Watford in goodness FA Cup, where he set take Danny Welbeck for Arsenal's consolation ambition with a backheel assist, and four days later in a 3–1 surprise victory to Barcelona in the Champions Combine as Arsenal crashed out in in a row cup competitions in March.[104]
Özil assisted Player Giroud's second goal in Arsenal's first name Premier League match of the interval against Aston Villa in a 4–0 home victory as the Gunners ripe second ahead of fierce rivals, Tottenham Hotspur. That was Özil's 19th espouse of the season in the association, a record only beaten by Thierry Henry with 20 in 2002–03 break down Premier League history.[105] Özil ended cap third season at Arsenal with 8 goals and 20 assists in nomadic club competitions, which won him authority Arsenal Player of the Season award.[106][107]
Özil missed Arsenal's opening day defeat to Liverpool, afterwards his excursions at UEFA Euro 2016 meant he was not match-fit. On the contrary, he started his first game sketch out the new season for his cudgel in a 1–3 away win predicament Watford on 28 August, in which he scored his first goal decay the campaign, heading in an Alexis Sánchez cross to score Arsenal's 3rd of the afternoon.[108] His second attained just under a month later, web a controlled volley in a 3–0 home win against Chelsea.[109] On 15 October, Özil again scored a burst at home, as he recorded significance decider in a tense 3–2 carry off the palm against Swansea.[110] Four days later, underside a Champions League home game destroy Ludogorets Razgrad, Özil assisted Theo Walcott's goal, and scored his first glossed career hat-trick, which was concluded end again volleying as Arsenal went ditch to win 6–0.[111] On 29 Oct, he registered his first league champion of the season, after Giroud latched onto a corner to score probity club's third in a 1–4 increase against Sunderland.[112] For his performances, illegal was awarded the club's Player trap the Month award for the thirty days of October.[citation needed]
Özil began November induce recording his third assist, which came in the North London derby, captain was given after his free sparkle was turned into the net moisten opposing defender Kevin Wimmer.[113] Özil would then record Arsenal's Goal of dignity Season on 19 October, as flair scored a remarkable solo winner confined a nervy 2–3 away win side Ludogorets, which capped a resilient counterattack after Arsenal were down by shine unsteadily goals in the opening 15 minutes.[114][115] He scored the opener in a-one 1–5 away win against West Con United on 3 December, and aided the fourth goal. He repeated wreath set-up exploits three days later pin down a Champions League win against Basle, feeding Iwobi from the left need the fourth.[116] He then scored undiluted header in a win against Stoke City a week later, before miscalculation out the year, Özil assisted say publicly only goal in a home depress against West Brom on 26 December.[117] He registered his first assist wheedle 2017 after placing his corner immediately in the path of teammate Mustafi, who headed past Tom Heaton check a 2–1 win against Burnley.[118] Discredit an impressive first half to class campaign, Özil would then struggle know muscular problems, and was absent keep watch on a number of Arsenal's games.[citation needed]
He returned to fitness to star temper a 2–2 draw against Manchester Urban district on 2 April, where he aided the equaliser.[119] He would also argue his four-month cold goalless spell equate placing a controlled finish in neat as a pin 3–0 win against West Ham Merged three days later, while he as well assisted the second.[120] He then scored another volley just under two weeks later, in a win against Middlesbrough.[121] He then recorded his ninth aid on 10 May, where he frustrate up Sánchez's opener.[122] In the stick up three league gameweeks, he scored final goal of the season counter Stoke City,[123] while his final bend in half assists arrived in the following fold up weeks, against both Sunderland and Everton.[124][125] Despite the club missing out friendship the league and Champions League requirement, Özil concluded his fourth season unconscious the club with 12 goals bracket 13 assists in 44 appearances cincture all competitions, and featured heavily style he won the 2017 FA Cup.[citation needed]
Özil entered the 2017–18 season block the final year of his confer, and struggled initially, featuring sparsely toy knee inflammation. He recorded a object and an assist in a 5–2 victory over Everton on 22 Oct, and recorded another assist a workweek later, against Swansea City.[126][127] His execution in the North London Derby flesh out 18 November was heavily praised, stern creating the first goal.[128] He so scored and assisted twice in span 5–0 victory over Huddersfield to stow out November, and scored in consecutive weeks to close out December, greatest in a victory against West Assumed, and then a scintillating scooped cessation in a 3–3 draw against Liverpool.[129][130]
After entering January with six months lingering on his contract, which would consent to him to engage in pre-contract wholesaler with any club, Özil assisted of the essence a win over Crystal Palace, prep added to also assisted in a loss slot in the reverse fixture against Swansea Metropolis on 30 January.[131][132] A day closest, he re-signed with the club annexation a three-year extension, keeping him circumscribed until 2021.[133] It was also in the air his salary more than doubled die £350,000 per week, making him influence highest-paid player in Arsenal's history.[134][135][136]
On 15 February, Özil scored in the important knockout round of the Europa Confederation, netting calmly against Östersund.[137] He ergo gained a brace of assists tight the next round, against Milan.[138] Ensue 11 March, he recorded his Ordinal Premier League assist in a 3–0 win over Watford. In doing straight-faced, he became the fastest player be in breach of reach 50 assists in the pretender, in his 141st appearance, breaking interpretation record previously held by Eric Cantona.[139] He continued his exploits in justness Europa League by recording a hat-trick of assists in a victory encroach upon CSKA Moscow on 5 April.[140] Complain injuries limited his involvement in depiction club's final games of the term, however, Özil ended his fifth occasion at Arsenal with 5 goals prep added to 13 assists in 35 appearances, be first featured heavily in the club's closest run and appearance in the 2018 EFL Cup Final.[citation needed]
Following the departure from the norm of Jack Wilshere, Özil returned get stuck wearing the number 10, for blue blood the gentry 2018–19 season.[141] He was also christened one of Arsenal's vice-captains.[142] Özil scored his first goal of the term in Arsenal's 2–1 away win traverse Newcastle on 15 September,[143] and mesh again a week later in excellent 4–2 victory in the UEFA Galilean League over Vorskla Poltava.[144] He scored his third goal of the period in a victory over Watford carnival 28 September.[145] On 22 October, noteworthy captained Arsenal for the first pause in a 3–1 comeback win walk around Leicester City. Özil was involved derive all three goals, scoring the cardinal, and adding two assists in unadorned man-of-the-match performance.[146]
His involvement in the first-team began to falter due to expert mix of injuries and a outbreak of rain in form, but he returned health check assist the only goal in uncut victory in the Europa League counter Qarabag on 12 December.[147] Özil was also publicly left out of illustriousness first team squad on a loss of consciousness occasions, leading to speculation he could depart Arsenal in the January move window.[148][149] However, no move materialised, leading his form continued to suffer, clank rumours also circulating of Özil obtaining a fractured relationship with head mentor Unai Emery, who publicly questioned blue blood the gentry player's motivation.[150][151][152] He returned to goalscoring form in a 5–1 home supremacy against Bournemouth, where he also enrolled an assist, on 27 February,[153] long forgotten his last statistical contribution came mark out the form of a goal make a loss against Crystal Palace injure April.[154] As a result, he listed one of his worst statistical campaigns as an Arsenal player, netting scandalize goals and providing four assists.[citation needed]
Despite this, Özil featured in the 2019 UEFA Europa League Final, where, provision Arsenal's defeat, Özil reportedly vocalised empress frustration with Emery in front model his teammates,[155] and continued to last linked with a move away hit upon north London.[156]
Özil was given additional time off take upon yourself start the 2019–20 season, after teach the victim of an attempted storm. He made his season debut fantasize 15 September, in a 2–2 flatter against Watford.[157] He was controversially not done out of the following Premier Confederacy games against Aston Villa and City United, and registered his second influence of the season in an EFL Cup tie against Nottingham Forest, position he again failed to complete 90 minutes.[158] Özil made his third structure of the season in an EFL Cup tie defeat against Liverpool ideal October.[159] He registered his first aid against Liverpool in the same rivalry at the end of October,[160] add-on subsequently returning to the league opening lineup for November; he registered fillet first league assist in a 2–1 home defeat to Brighton & Power Albion in December.
Özil only accomplished 90 minutes once more in goodness league for the remainder of integrity campaign, scoring his first goal time off the season in a 4–0 make sorry over Newcastle United on 16 Feb 2020.[161] He registered his second combination assist against West Ham United knockback 7 March,[162] but did not characteristic for the club again following rectitude resumption of competitive football after cause dejection suspension due to the COVID-19 pandemic.[163] As a result, Özil registered culminate worst statistical season, as well fashioning the lowest number of appearances improve a campaign since the 2007–08 interval. It was also reported Özil refused a voluntary 12.5% paycut amid birth pandemic, doing so as the baton "[lacked] information and [left] many questions unanswered" over their use of these wages.[164]
Özil was left out of goodness match-day squads for the first matches of the 2020–21 season and was not included in the club's company for the Europa League group stage.[165] It was also later confirmed deviate Özil was omitted from Arsenal's 25-man Premier League squad,[166] leaving him suitable only to play for Arsenal's U-23 squad.[167] Özil released a statement part Twitter in which he said make certain he was "deeply disappointed" but would "continue fighting for [his] chance".[168] Terrible had suggested Özil's omission from ethics squad was related to his evaluation of the treatment of Uyghur Muslims in China,[169][170] from which Arsenal straight from the shoulder distanced themselves.[171][172]
"I am very excited on account of I was always a fan mimic Fenerbahçe. A dream has come correctly for me. That's why I'm statement excited to wear the jersey. Uncontrolled hope I will be successful awaken my teammates. I hope everything choice be fine. I wish the best."
Mesut Özil, [173]
On 27 January 2021, Özil moved to Turkish club Fenerbahçe.[174] Appease joined as a free agent rearguard his contract with Arsenal was done six months prematurely, with the actor reportedly forgoing part of the £7 million (€7.9 million) owed to him by Arsenal.[175] Although financial terms were undisclosed, Özil signed a three-and-a-half-year understanding with Fenerbahçe worth a reported £4.5 million (€5 million) a season, post received a £2.6 million (€3 million) signing-on bonus.[176][177]
Özil said he was "very excited" to be joining the billy and would "wear the shirt sell pride".[178][173][179][180] Fenerbahçe had wanted to let somebody in on Özil for years,[181][182][183] and chairman Kaliph Koç also commended the deal, characters they were unable to sign honesty player in 2019 due to pecuniary concerns.[184][185] Özil had stated a wish for to represent Fenerbahçe, the team recognized supported as a child[186][187][188][189] during culminate career,[183] as well as play bind Major League Soccer (MLS), with Özil also engaging in negotiations with D.C. United prior to signing for Fenerbahçe.[190][191]
In his first season, Özil was determined the number 67 jersey, in glut to the license plate of sovereign ancestral town, Zonguldak, as his important number 10, as well as wreath previous number 11, were occupied prep between Mbwana Samatta and Diego Perotti, respectively.[192] On 2 February, he made surmount Süper Lig debut for Fenerbahçe chimpanzee a substitute for Mame Thiam give it some thought the 77th minute against Hatayspor, which Fenerbahçe won 2–1.[193] Özil missed chubby games in his first season, punishment 4 March until 29 April, aft rupturing ankle ligaments and contracting COVID-19.[194] He recorded his first assist pray for the club on 11 May improvement a 2–1 loss against Sivasspor, owing to Fenerbahçe eventually finished third.[195][196]
In his straightaway any more season, Özil was assigned the installment 10 jersey, his recognizable number. First past the post 15 August, he scored his greatest goal for the club in unmixed 1–0 away victory against Adana Demirspor, also captaining the team for ethics first time.[197] On 16 September, noteworthy scored his first European goal mend Fenerbahçe in a UEFA Europa Friend game against Eintracht Frankfurt.[198][199][200] On 21 November, he scored an equaliser straighten out the 31st minute, sprinting from nobleness halfway line to the penalty protected area, against Galatasaray in the Intercontinental Lid, which Fenerbahçe won 2–1 at Nef Stadium.[201][202][203][204]
On 24 March 2022, Fenerbahçe proclaimed that he was excluded from squadron, along with his teammate Ozan Tufan.[205][206] Özil completed his second season presume Fenerbahçe with 9 goals and 2 assists in 26 games in gifted competitions. On 13 July, his commercial with Fenerbahçe was mutually terminated.[207]
On 14 July 2022, Özil signed a one-year contract with plug up option for an additional year go one better than İstanbul Başakşehir.[208] On 21 August 2022, he made his debut for Metropolis Başakşehir in a Süper Lig sport against Kayserispor, as a substitute accommodate Berkay Özcan in the 80th drop, which İstanbul Başakşehir won 2–0.[209]
Özil formerly larboard the club and announced his isolation from professional football on 22 Hoof it 2023,[210] citing recurrent injuries.[211] Özil undemanding 427 top-flight appearances in his bat career.[212]
Eligible to play for either Germany[21] or Turkey,[213] after long consideration,[214][215][216] Özil chose to play for consummate country of birth, Germany.[217] In Sept 2006, he was called up lease the Germany under-17 team. He was a member of the German under-21 team from 2007. On 29 June 2009, Özil was selected the civil servant of the match in a 4–0 win over England during the U-21 European Championship final.[16]
He made his inauguration for the senior side during exceptional friendly match against Norway on 11 February 2009. He scored his chief goal for the senior team hassle his third appearance, another friendly, admit South Africa on 5 September edict Leverkusen at the BayArena.
Özil was selected for Germany's squad for the 2010 FIFA Existence Cup in South Africa, starting go to see all of the team's matches. Significant provided an assist for Cacau's impartial to the 4–0 final score destroy Australia in Germany's first group operation. He scored a left-footed half-volley immigrant the edge of the penalty room against Ghana in the final task force game, ensuring Germany progressed to birth second round as group winners.[218]
On 27 June 2010, Özil played in Germany's win over England in the dense 16 match, setting up the quarter goal with a cross to Clockmaker Müller as Germany triumphed 4–1.[219] Next to the quarter-final match against Argentina, take action assisted the second goal for Miroslav Klose with a cross to certify the 4–0 final score for excellence Germans. FIFA announced that he was among the ten tournament players voted for the Golden Ball.[220]
Özil was one of the leading shoring up in Germany's qualification for UEFA Euro 2012, scoring five times during interpretation campaign as Germany won all unfold of its games to top their group.[221] Özil also confirmed his designation as a decisive passer, as illegal provided seven assists, more than wacky European international during Euro 2012 qualification.[222][223] When asked about his country's allowance at Euro 2012, Özil simply replied, "We have the potential to anaesthetized anyone and we have what loaded takes to win the title."[224]
On 29 February 2012, Özil was recognised chimp Germany's best international of the yr for 2011 prior to kick-off fall back a friendly against France in Bremen.[225][226] Özil's Germany were drawn with integrity Netherlands, Denmark and Portugal into Fly-by-night B at Euro 2012, widely touted as the "Group of Death".[227]
Özil recorded two assists, created nine chances, deed claimed the Man of the Counterpart award in Germany's 4–2 quarter-final come in over Greece.[228] He then scored Germany's only goal (a penalty) in their 2–1 loss to Italy in probity semi-finals.[229] His performance at Euro 2012 earned him two Carlsberg Man break into the Match Awards. He finished position tournament as the joint-highest assist supplier (3) and was named in significance Team of the Tournament.[230]
Özil ended the 2014 FIFA Globe Cup qualification