Ozil speaks out over being dropped from Arsenal’s Premier League squad

Mesut Ozil has spoken, and it’s loud and clear the German midfielder is not happy about not making Mikel Arteta’s 25-man Premier League squad for the rest of the season.

Here’s Ozil statement released earlier on Wednesday…

“This is a difficult message to write to Arsenal fans that I’ve played for over the past few years. I’m really deeply disappointed by the fact that I have not been registered for the Premier League season for the time being. Upon signing my new contract in 2018, I pledged my loyalty and allegiance to the club that I love, Arsenal, and it saddens me that this has not been reciprocated. As I have just found out, loyalty is hard to come by nowadays. I’ve always tried to remain positive from week to week that there’s maybe a chance to get back in the squad soon again. That is why I kept silent so far. Before the coronavirus break, I was really happy with the development under our new coach, Mikel Arteta. We’ve been on a positive way and I would say my performances were on a really good level. No matter what, I will keep fighting for my chance and not let my eighth season at Arsenal end like this. I can promise you that this hard decision won’t change anything in my mindset – I will continue to train as best as I can and wherever possible use my voice against humanity and for justice.”

Mikel Arteta responded to Arsenal.com regarding Ozil’s statement and the decision to omit him from the PL squad…

“Everybody is free to express their feelings. What can I say from my side? It’s just a football decision that my conscience is very calm about because I was very fair with him. My level of communication with him has been really high, we know what to expect from each other. When I believe that he could contribute to the team to be better, which is why I was hired to this football club – to become the manager, to win football matches, competitions and create and build a project for the short, medium and long-term. He has had the opportunity like everybody else. I’m sad that I had to leave three players off this list, which is never pleasant, but I just have to say that I tried to look everybody in the eye and be comfortable with it. With Mesut, I had this feeling because I have been very straightforward since I arrived at this club.”

“Honestly, I take full responsibility. I have to be the one getting the best out of the players. It’s my responsibility and again, it’s nothing related to anything, any behaviour or things like I read, like the pay cuts. It’s not true, it’s my decision. If someone has to blame me, and that will happen when we lose football matches, it’s my responsibility. I have to make the decision to get the best possible squad out there to win football matches and competitions as often as we can. In order to do that, I try to be fair with him and with any other players in the squad to defend, as much as possible, the interests of the football club.”

No matter whose side you support in this situation, it’s unfortunate to see Mesut Ozil’s career with Arsenal end in such a fashion.

Personally, I would like to see him given at least another chance or two to see what more he can offer the club on the pitch before pulling the plug on his career at the Emirates.

Gunner1953