Mesut Ozil announces retirement from professional football
German midfielder hangs up boots after 17-year career
Istanbul Basaksehir midfielder Mesut Ozil has announced his decision to retire from professional football, bringing his 17-year career to an end. He is regarded as a legendary figure in the modern game.
Ozil came into prominence when he played for German outfit Schalke 04 before moving to Werder Bremen and earning an invitation to the 2010 FIFA World Cup with Germany. He helped his country finish third before moving to Real Madrid. At Real Madrid, he distinguished himself as one of the most creative midfielders in world football. After three years with Los Blancos, Ozil moved to the Premier League with Arsenal, where he remained for eight years until 2021.
Ozil left Arsenal in acrimonious terms in 2021, joining boyhood club Fenerbahce for free. His return to the country of his birth did not go as planned, with injuries and loss of form proving troublesome. The German midfielder spent 18 months with Fenerbahce before moving to Istanbul Basaksehir ahead of the 2022-23 season.
Mesut Ozil made eight appearances for Basaksehir this season before going under the radar as he was plagued by various issues. He announced his retirement via his social media, citing his recurring injuries as a reason for his retirement.
“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. It has been an amazing journey filled with unforgettable moments and emotions. I want to thank my clubs – Schalke 04, Werder Bremen, Real Madrid, Arsenal FC, Fenerbahçe, Başakşehir and the coaches who supported me, plus team-mates who have become friends.”
Mesut Ozil ended his career with four FA Cup titles, the 2014 FIFA World Cup, one La Liga title, one Copa Del Rey title and a DFB Pokal title with Werder Bremen. He had 114 goals and 220 assists throughout his career in 695 appearances.
