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This article is part of Football FanCast’s Pundit View series, which provides opinion and analysis on recent quotes from journalists, pundits, players and managers…
Calcio Mercato is reporting that Arsenal have put Mesut Ozil on the transfer list, and that Turkish, Chinese and American clubs have their eyes on him.
What’s the story?
Ozil has had to make do with a bit-part role this season at the Emirates Stadium. He has made just two starts so far this campaign, and it does not look as though he will be returning to the starting XI on a regular basis anytime soon.
It now appears he could be leaving the north London outfit altogether, too. As per the Italian outlet, the former Germany international does not fit into Unai Emery’s plans, which could therefore see him depart.
Still has enough for Europe
It is a sorry situation the former Schalke man finds himself in and, for football purists, it is such a shame to see one of Europe’s great technicians unable to receive consistent playing time.
There was once a time when he was registering 19 Premier League assists in a season. To put that into perspective, only one player in the division’s history has more in one single campaign.
Of course, it is clear he has lost his way in recently, and the level of his displays are not what they once were. But, he is still just 30. That should give him at least another four years of good-quality football ahead of him, whether that is at Arsenal or not.
He still has so much more to give to the elite in European football, and it would be far too soon for him to depart for the big salaries of the USA or China. The Turkish game is far more competitive, but the overall quality is still lacking compared to the continent’s top five leagues.
The pace of the Premier League may now be too much for him, but somewhere like Serie A would be a far better fit. There are plenty of sides in Italy who would love to make use of his technical ability, just like there would be in the Bundesliga.
A fresh start in itself could be enough to rejuvenate him. He has not had an easy time of it in the past 18 months, what with the backlash of his photo with Recep Erdogan and the carjacking attempt against himself and teammate Sead Kolasinac. Both of these incidents came whilst still with the Gunners and psychologically, he may be starting to link his time in north London with bad memories.
It is probably fair to say that his departure from Arsenal is the best thing for all involved. But, from Ozil’s perspective, he needs to stay in football’s heartland. He still has so much left to give.
