Former Arsenal star Ozil announces retirement from professional football

Mueez Ajao

– Former Arsenal, Real Madrid and Germany midfielder Mesut Ozil has retired from football at the age of 34.

– Ozil won nine trophies during his club career including four FA Cups and the Spanish La Liga title in 2012.

– He also won 92 caps for Germany and was part of the team that lifted the 2014 World Cup in Brazil.

Also Read: Ozil joins Istanbul Basaksehir after his contract was terminated by Fenerbahçe

– “After thoughtful consideration, I’m announcing my immediate retirement from professional football,” Ozil wrote in an announcement posted to Twitter.

– “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, Werder Bremen, Real Madrid, Arsenal FC, Fenerbahçe, Basaksehir and the coaches who supported me, plus teammates who have become friends.

– “Special thanks must go to my family members and my closest friends. They have been a part of my journey from day one and have given me so much love and support, through the good times and the bad.”