Image Source : GETTY IMAGES Mesut Ozil
Mesut Ozil has thanked Arsenal for an “amazing journey” after his departure to Fenerbahce was confirmed, saying he goes with no grudges regardless of not taking part in for almost a 12 months.
Ozil mentioned goodbye to his Arsenal teammates every week in the past and his transfer to Turkey has now been wrapped up.
“I’d like to thank the club for this amazing journey over the past seven-and-a-half years,” Ozil mentioned Sunday.
The former Germany worldwide has not performed for Arsenal since March and his contract was as a result of expire on the finish of the present season.
“The assist I’ve felt from the crew and followers throughout my time right here has been really unimaginable and one thing I’ll at all times be pleased about,” Ozil mentioned. “Together we gained trophies for the primary time in years and created recollections that can final a lifetime. The Arsenal followers will endlessly stay in my coronary 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.”
Having began the primary 10 video games underneath Mikel Arteta following his appointment in December 2019, Ozil has not featured since a 1-0 win over West Ham earlier than the coronavirus pandemic noticed soccer halted.
He was omitted from Arsenal’s Premier League and Europa League squads.
“As I said, the past few months haven’t been the easiest,” Ozil mentioned. “Like each participant, I need to play each minute of soccer for my crew. In life, nonetheless, issues don’t at all times play out how we would like or count on them to.
“But it is important to look for the positives in life and not negatives, which is why I try to live life with no regrets and holding no grudges. Being at Arsenal was more than just football, it was about community.”
Fenerbahce formally introduced the acquisition of Ozil in a press release to the Istanbul inventory alternate on Sunday.
“The transfer of professional football player Mesut Ozil has been agreed with Arsenal FC and a principle agreement has been reached with the player himself,” the membership mentioned in a quick assertion on its web site.
A 3½ 12 months contract had been agreed with the previous Germany midfielder, it added.
Fenerbahce President Ali Koc mentioned Saturday that Ozil may start coaching as early as Sunday night. A signing ceremony can be held Tuesday or Wednesday he added.
Manager Mikel Arteta mentioned Ozil can be remembered for taking part in in three of the 4 FA Cup finals Arsenal gained throughout his time on the membership.
“Mesut’s achievements at Arsenal are undisputed,” Arteta mentioned. “It was a privilege to play alongside him and, extra just lately, coach him.
“His creativity and vision led to many goals during his time in the Arsenal shirt. Mesut was at the heart of many great moments for this club over the years, including those three FA Cup final wins. These successes will always be part of our history. We thank Mesut and wish him all the best with Fenerbahce.”