Mesut Ozil may have been left out of the Arsenal FC squad for the coming season but the German’s case remains a topic in discussions. Though Mikel Arteta may be avoiding it and focusing on the Gunners’ campaign, it remains that he and the club will need to resolve the issue of the 32-year-old as soon as possible.
The earliest possible time for that to happen is likely in January. Ozil’s contract runs up to next summer but the Gunners can sit down and negotiate amicably. Considering that the German is due roughly $456,000 a week, settling is unlikely to be easy.
Also, it would be best to figure out what Ozil wants moving forward. The German has received lucrative offers from other clubs but opted to remain with the Gunners. Considering Arsenal is obligated to pay the rest of his contract, it is not hard to see why.
The struggles along the way are only meant to shape you for your purpose. ️ #M1Ö pic.twitter.com/S9jyARVNN7 — Mesut Özil (@MesutOzil1088) October 31, 2020
But as far as former Gunner Nigel Winterburn is concerned, this is a problem that needs to be resolved quickly for both parties to move forward. Speaking to FreeSuperTips, he recognizes the talent of Ozil but also singles out the shortcomings of the German defender.
“Mesut Ozil is a terrific player and the one thing that he does give you is that he will create chances but at the same time he is not going to give you that defensive side to the game, with and without the ball, which is why he hasn’t been selected,” Winterburn said.
The same sentiment is shared by others. Most know how good Ozil could be if he plays for the right club. But seeing how he has no one to blame but himself for his predicament, the logical move is for him to play elsewhere.
There is no question that the case of Ozil goes beyond the sport. Arsene Wenger feels that there is something deeper to the story, Sky Sports reported.
"Mesut Ozil is an exceptional football player. What happens at the moment between him and the club looks to be more confrontational. It's not based only on sport,” Wenger said.
It will be interesting if a resolution happens in January. Ozil is buying his time but he needs to consider playing ball as well. A prolonged absence could prove crucial, especially once his current deal runs out.
