After not having featured for Arsenal since the Premier League resumed, it looks pretty clear that Mesut Özil is considering his future. He has several options to choose from and we can only wait and see what the German decides to do. Here is what the future holds for Mesut Özil.
Stay at Arsenal
Mesut has been at Arsenal since 2013 after joining from Real Madrid for €50 million, a then club-record fee on the deadline day. He became a fan favorite soon after saying “I’m a Gunner” in his first press conference for the club when he couldn’t speak English as he does today.
At Real Madrid, Özil was by far the best-attacking midfielder in the world, setting records for his number of assists in the season and serving goals for Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema.
Search for Another Club in Europe
Although 31, Özil is still one of the best-attacking midfielders in Europe. There is no doubt about his abilities. He has a lot of experience in the Champions League and Europa League and can still be wooed by a top club in Europe. Although unlikely, it’s not completely impossible.
Major League Soccer
In recent years, the MLS has been the hub for all aging stars. This season, Blaise Matuidi left for MLS club Inter Miami FC from Juventus. The club is owned by former Manchester United and Real Madrid legend David Beckham. Inter Miami have substantial financial backing and are an eye-catching destination for a star like Özil. The 2014 World Cup winner has also expressed his desire to start a restaurant and his clothing brand and moving to a place like Los Angeles. A move to MLS might help him achieve his goals on and off the pitch. LA Galaxy are famous for buying star players. Legends like Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Chicharito, David Beckham, Steven Gerrard, and Robbie Keane have all played for the club.
Turkey
After the 2018 World Cup, Özil famously said “I am German when we win and an immigrant when we lose”. This statement was in regard to German fans booing Özil and telling him to go back to Turkey, where his family hails from. Although born and brought up in Germany, Özil has a lot of Turkish influence and he also speaks the language. His wife is also Turkish and Özil has a close relationship with the Turkish President, Recep Tayyip Erdoğan who was the best man at their wedding. Turkish clubs like Fenerbahce, Istanbul Basaksehir, and Besiktas would love to have Özil as one of their star players.
