Sweaty Goal Everything about Football
| Name: | Mesut Özil (Mesut Özil) |
| Born: | 15 October , 1988 – Gelsenkirchen , West Germany |
| Spouse: | Amine Gülşe Özil (m. 2019) |
| Position: | Attacking Midfielder |
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| Nationality: | German |
| Appearances (Assist): | 645 (222) |
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In the football world, Mesut Özil is a renowned name that needs no introduction. This German-born footballer is one of the most talked-about and controversial players in recent times. From his early days in Schalke, Özil has been in the spotlight which eventually lead to his success at Real Madrid and Arsenal.
Early Life
Özil was born on October 15, 1988, in Gelsenkirchen, Germany. He learned to speak both Turkish and German fluently since his parents were Turkish immigrants who came to Germany. From a young age, he showed a keen interest in football.
In Germany
In 2006, Özil joined Schalke’s youth team and quickly rose through the ranks. He made his senior debut in the 2006-07 season and was impressed with his technical ability and vision on the pitch. However, he struggled to hold down a regular place in the team and eventually joined Werder Bremen in 2008 on loan.
Coach Thomas Schaaf helped Özil flourish at Werder Bremen, giving him a more prominent role in the team and the opportunity to showcase his skills. Werder Bremen reached the final of the DFB-Pokal and the semi-finals of the UEFA Europa League in the 2009-10 season. His skills and performances earned him a call-up to the German national team.
Mesut Özil at Real Madrid
In 2010, Real Madrid signed Özil for a fee of €15 million, making him part of a star-studded team that included Cristiano Ronaldo, Kaka, and Sergio Ramos. Özil quickly became a fan favourite at Real Madrid with his silky skills and eye for a pass. In his first season, Real Madrid won the Copa del Rey and reached the semi-finals of the UEFA Champions League.
Özil continued to excel in the following seasons and was named the UEFA Team of the Year in 2012. However, his time at Real Madrid was not without controversy. Coach Jose Mourinho criticized his work rate on the pitch. Eventually, Özil was sold to Arsenal for £42.5 million.
Mesut Özil at Arsenal
Arsenal‘s acquisition of Özil was seen as a significant coup for the club. In his first season, Özil scored five goals and provided nine assists in the league, helping Arsenal finish fourth in the table. However, his inconsistent performances led to criticism. Nonetheless, he continued to be a key player for Arsenal, helping them win the FA Cup in 2014, 2015, and 2017, and being named the Arsenal Player of the Season in 2016-17. His form began to decline in the following seasons, and he fell out of favour with Arsenal manager Unai Emery. Eventually, Özil was dropped out of the team and did not play a single game in the 2019-20 season.
On 27 January 2021, Özil moved to the Turkish club Fenerbahçe.On 14 July 2022, Özil signed a one-year contract with an option for an additional year with İstanbul Başakşehir.Özil left the club and announced his retirement from professional football on 22 March 2023
International Career
Özil has had an illustrious international career just like his club career. He was a regular member of the German national team quickly after making his debut in 2009. He was a key player in Germany’s run to the semi-finals of the 2010 FIFA World Cup and the tournament’s Best Young Player. Özil provided the most number of assists in the 2014 World Cup and was instrumental in Germany’s triumph.
Personal Life and Controversies
However, the media and fans criticized Özil for his performances in the 2018 world cup and targeted him for his Turkish heritage. He announced his retirement from international football, citing “racism and disrespect” as the reasons for his decision.
Özil was embroiled in several controversies throughout his career. He was criticized for his work rate and attitude on the pitch, in addition to the spat with Mourinho. Özil has also been involved in political controversies regarding his Turkish heritage. In 2018, he posed for a photo with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, which was criticized by some sections of the German media for supporting Erdogan’s government.
Off the pitch, Özil is known for his philanthropic work, donating to several charities and causes, including Syrian refugees and children’s hospitals. He is also an animal rights advocate and is involved in campaigns to raise awareness about animal welfare.
Özil is married to former Miss Turkey, Amine Gulse, and the couple has a daughter together.
Mesut Özil’s career in modern football is one of the most intriguing. He had technical ability and vision on the pitch but he lacked attitude and work rate. Although his international career ended in controversy, his philanthropic work off the pitch has earned him respect and admiration.
