Mesut Ozil: career stats, trophy haul

After a glittering career, the World Cup-winning midfielder hangs up his boots as a professional.

Former Arsenal player and Germany international Mesut Ozil took to social media to announce his retirement from professional football. “After much thought, I announce my immediate retirement from professional football,” the 34-year-old wrote in his statement, thanking the support and acknowledging the privilege of playing professionally for almost 17 years.

Mesut Ozil is remembered as a player with impeccable vision. He made many assists to his teammates, often from tight situations. He won numerous trophies during his illustrious career. He was also open to making a statement and raising his voice in the context of social issues. The former German international was of Turkish origin and was very humble, both as a player and as a person.

He also gave credit to those close to him in his post announcing his retirement. “Special thanks to my family and my close friends. They have been part of my journey since day one and have given me so much love and support, in good times and bad.” statement read

Here’s a look back at Mesut Ozil’s illustrious career as he bids farewell to professional football:

Club Route

Mesut Ozil played for several top clubs in Europe. Here is a summary of his club career:

FC Schalke 04

Mesut Ozil made his professional debut with FC Schalke 04 of the German Bundesliga. It was here that he showed glimpses of his quality after coming through the club’s youth ranks.

Appearances: 39

Objectives: 1

Aids: 5

Werder Bremen

Werder Bremen paid €5.00 million for the services of Mesut Ozil in 2008. The midfielder made more than a century with the German side before moving on to fry bigger fish.

Appearances: 108

Goals: 16

Aids: 54

World Soccer Articles:

Real Madrid

Joining Real Madrid is every footballer’s dream. Mesut Ozil was at the peak of his abilities when he was playing for the LaLiga giants and won several trophies with the club.

Appearances: 159

Goals: 27

Aids: 81

Arsenal

Premier League side Arsenal spent €47.00 million to bring Mesut Ozil to England, a transfer that made a huge statement. The midfielder made the most appearances for the Gunners of all clubs and spent eight years with them. It should be remembered that Ozil created 146 chances in the 2015-16 Premier League season, the most ever recorded in Europe’s top five divisions.

Appearances: 254

Goals: 44

Aids: 79

Fenerbahçe

In January 2021, Ozil was welcomed by Fenerbahce with open arms as he joined the Turkish side in a transfer heading into the final stages of his career.

Appearances: 37

Objectives: 9

Aids: 3