Mesut Ozil told he’s ‘no culprit’ in Arsenal stand-off despite ‘tough’ situation
Arsenal legend Robert Pires has defended Mesut Ozil and hailed the former Gunners star as a "club legend".
Ozil left the Premier League giants for a move to Turkish giants Fenerbahce last weekend, after agreeing a deal to end his seven-and-a-half-year stay at the Emirates
The German midfielder had not played for the Gunners since March, with his £350,000-a-week deal due to expire at the end of the current season.
Having started the first 10 games under Mikel Arteta following his appointment in December 2019, Ozil had not featured since a 1-0 win over West Ham before the coronavirus pandemic saw football grind to a halt.
He was omitted from Arsenal's Premier League and Europa League squads, with Arteta and technical director Edu insisting the decision was down to footballing reasons.
And Pires told The Sun : “In my opinion Ozil is an Arsenal legend.
“We must not forget everything he did for this club and the quality he brought to the team.
“For me there is no culprit in this story. I know Arteta and I know Ozil. The manager made a decision and Ozil had to accept it, which he did.
“He never complained but instead continued to train like a professional.
“He has now found a solution to leave by signing with Fenerbahce and I think everyone’s happy – especially Mesut because he was the one most affected by it.
“Being frozen out of the squad is very tough. That said, for me Ozil has already gone down as an Arsenal legend.”
After sealing his exit, Ozil thanked Arsenal for an "amazing journey" after his departure to Fenerbahce was confirmed.
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"I'd like to thank the club for this amazing journey over the past seven-and-a-half years," said Ozil.
On his club's official website he added: "The support I have felt from the team and fans during my time here has been truly incredible and something I will always be grateful for.
"Together we won trophies for the first time in years and created memories that will last a lifetime. The Arsenal fans will forever remain in my heart.
"I'd like to thank Edu Gaspar for helping bring about a professional and dignified solution in the past few days, and I wish everyone at the club the best in their attempt to continue to bring Arsenal back to the top, where we belong."
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