)
Mesut Ozil has confirmed he has retired from football at the age of 34 with immediate effect.
Mesut Ozil has retired from football at the age of 34 after a difficult past few years.
Ozil retires from football
The former Arsenal midfielder and Germany international had been playing for Turkish side Istanbul Basaksehir but only made eight appearances for the club following injury problems.
The decision for Ozil to retire from football was revealed on Instagram by the player himself in a statement reading:
"Hello everyone, After thoughtful consideration, l am announcing my immediate retirement from professional football.
"I've had the privilege to be a professional football player for almost 17 years now and I feel incredibly thankful for the opportunity.
"But in recent weeks and months, having also suffered some injuries, it's become more and more clear that it's time to leave the big stage of football."
Ozil joined Arsenal from Real Madrid in a big money move and enjoyed some good times. He eventually left the club in January 2021 after being frozen out by manager, Mikel Arteta.
Ozil's career fizzled out in Turkey owning to his fitness-related issues but at his peak, he was one of the best midfielders in the world.
Ozil retires from football as a World Cup winner after playing a key role in Germany's triumph in 2014.
Related content
)
19:59 - 21.03.2023
PREMIER LEAGUE Arsenal defender to miss the rest of the season
The defender had to come off against Sporting CP in the Europa League and will now have to miss the rest of the 2022/23 season
)
07:43 - 22.03.2023
TRANSFERS Arsenal keen on Brighton star Alexis Mac Allister
Arsenal are making plans to add more quality to their team in the summer transfer window and midfield is believed to be an area of priority for manager, Mikel Arteta.
)
11:30 - 21.03.2023
FOOTBALL Odegaard on Arsenal’s title chances amid tight race with Manchester City
The Gunners possess an eight-point gap at the summit of the log.
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)