After signing Gareth Bale for a world-record transfer fee, Real Madrid’s pain of losing Mesut Ozil is Arsenal’s gain.
Once Bale was signed, Ozil’s departure was seemingly inevitable. Despite Los Blancos’ varying fortunes on the pitch, a direct result of the political battle waging between those that supported Mourinho and those against him, Real Madrid boasted a side possessing arguably the richest attacking wealth, and every match provided a genuine selection headache for the manager. The likes of Di Maria, Kaka, Modric, Ozil, Isco, Benzema and Ronaldo were consistently vying for places at the top, and it was expected that the acquisition of Bale would see some of these stars losing out on precious playing time.
Although no one requested a transfer, it had become clear that both Ozil and Di Maria had come to the realization that Bale’s transfer would see their starting berths come under threat.
Ozil said:
“At the weekend, I was certain that I would stay at Real Madrid, but afterwards I realized that I did not have the faith from the coach or the bosses. I am a player who needs this faith and that is what I have felt from Arsenal, which is why I have joined.”
With Arsenal having secured a £42.5m transfer for Ozil on what was a spectacular deadline day transfer, Arsenal supporters finally have something to smile about. It’s been eight long years since the Gunners have won any silverware, and now Arsenal are destined to grab a piece of silverware this season. Ozil’s transfer is a definite game-changer.
Known back in his homeland as the ‘German Messi’, Ozil has proven time and time again of his abilities with the ball at his feet. At the Bernabeu, Ronaldo, Benzema and Higuain were all beneficiaries of the 24-year-old’s quality passing. So often, Ozil was able to find that pass that was able to split open the defense, creating goalscoring opportunities for strikers. And there is no doubt that Giroud, who has been criticized last season for his lack of prowess in front of goal, will benefit from the German’s services.
Silky skills, clever passes and seemingly impossible turns are all part of the package that Ozil has to offer. These are aspects of his game that the Bernabeu’s faithful have been accustomed to witnessing week-in week-out.
Not only is he useful as a central attacking midfielder, but he also has qualities playing down the wing. He’s capable of weaving his way out of trouble and is often allowed to drift back in towards the center of the park. He is normally seen hugging the flank, followed by a swift change of pace that allows him to gracefully glide pass defenders. These are all trademarks of Ozil’s game, and he seemingly never fails to dazzle.
In La Liga last season, Ozil created a total of 91 chances that resulted in 13 assists and 9 goals.
The prospect of Ozil partnering with Santi Cazorla and Jack Wilshere will make most Arsenal supporters salivate. And at a young age of just 24 years, and having signed a five year contract, everything is in place for a successful spell in London.
Having been described by his former boss Jose Mourinho as a “unique player” who is “the best number ten in the world,” there is no doubt that the German magician belongs to a class of his own. A highly underrated footballer in many respects and a special midfielder, Mesut Ozil has all the ingredients to bring success back to the Emirates.
Follow Cronan on Twitter: @Cronan_Yu
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Steven P.
September 6, 2013 at 6:56 am
Ozil is a terrific player and will show his talents at Arsenal. My only concern is if he will be able to handle the physicality of the BPL. I can see him being kicked all over the park and how he reacts will be key. In the Champions League is where he could prove to be most effective. Cannot wait to see him play his first game for the Gunners.
gillyrosh
September 5, 2013 at 2:54 pm
I worry about Ozil in the Premier League. I keep having visions of his legs just being taken out. ::shudder::
CR7
September 5, 2013 at 1:59 pm
Arsenal signing Ozil was better than RM signing Bale and letting Ozil and Kaka leave.
Foxy_Woxy
September 5, 2013 at 12:34 pm
I’m still shocked RM let him go.
Br|an
September 5, 2013 at 12:08 pm
Ozil is a top player and excellent signing without question however Arsenal wil not achieve SUBSTANTIAL success until they sign a striker.
Foxy_Woxy
September 5, 2013 at 12:35 pm
Come on back, Bendtner!
josef
September 5, 2013 at 10:13 am
if wenger had signed a prolific striker with ozil, we would be favourites 4 d league title, but wit just him as d star signing, i dnt tink we can win d league. I think we are only guaranteed a place in the top four and then just may be one of either d fa cup or league cup we can win. Coyg.
Mufc77
September 5, 2013 at 10:33 am
Get off the crack mate its damaging your brain cells.
Mufc77
September 5, 2013 at 9:55 am
They haven’t won a trophy in 7+ years so I guess the league cup would be considered “greater success”.
zach
September 5, 2013 at 9:45 am
Good job on the article BUT…
Less recycling quotes and more insight into how Özil would help this team tactically. What are his movements like on the pitch. Moving from RM to Arsenal how will that change his role?
Show me some numbers, formations and plays.
As an Arsenal fan I appreciate the title of the article but give more substance and not quotes that have been in the papers for some time now.
samson
September 5, 2013 at 9:36 am
am the most happiest person on earth when i heard arsenal has sign germany giant ozil.What a sensational signing i cant wait to watch ozil on the field of player.longlife arsenal
samson
September 5, 2013 at 9:32 am
am the most happiest person on when i heard arsenal has sign germany giant ozil
Jason
September 5, 2013 at 9:27 am
I’ll admit I’m a spurs fan so a bit bias and upset as Ozil is one of my favorites but is he the right piece that Arsenal needed? I don’t think their weakness was creating chances.
With that said, if you can sign him sign him. My question is why didn’t Spurs? Seems like the perfect creativity we’re missing!
adams
September 5, 2013 at 4:18 pm
This isn’t an original thought from me but something that a couple of the Arsenal blogs have been saying (and i agree with) is that while striker and some defensive may better a bigger need but signing Ozil may help to bring in a “top, top, quality” striker.
Biff
September 5, 2013 at 4:47 pm
How about because Spurs don’t play on the highest level? And Wenger has gotten Arsenal there for 16 straight years.