Mesut Ozil’s Future at Arsenal: Contract Extension or Exit?
The future of Arsenal midfielder Mesut Ozil has been a subject of intense speculation in recent months. With his current contract set to expire in 2021, there have been ongoing discussions about whether the German playmaker will extend his stay at the Emirates or seek a new challenge elsewhere.
Ozil’s career at Arsenal has been a rollercoaster ride, to say the least. Signed from Real Madrid in 2013 for a then-club-record fee of £42.5 million, the expectations were sky-high for the creative maestro. In his early years at the club, Ozil showcased his incredible vision, technical ability, and knack for creating goal-scoring opportunities. He was undoubtedly one of Arsenal’s most influential players and a key piece of the puzzle.
However, since signing a lucrative contract extension in 2018, worth a reported £350,000 per week, Ozil’s performances have been inconsistent, and he has often found himself on the fringes of the team. Under the new regime of head coach Mikel Arteta, Ozil has struggled to secure a regular starting spot. Whether it’s down to his work rate, tactical discipline, or a combination of factors, the German international has failed to recapture his best form on a consistent basis.
The financial implications of Ozil’s contract have also put a strain on Arsenal’s transfer budget. His wages have made it difficult for the club to invest in other areas, leaving the Gunners with limited resources to improve the squad. This has led to some calling for Ozil’s departure, as selling him could free up significant funds that could be utilized to strengthen other positions in the team.
On the other hand, there are fans and pundits who believe that Ozil still has a role to play at Arsenal. Despite his recent struggles, there are glimpses of his class and ability to unlock defenses when given the opportunity. Arteta has praised his professionalism and attitude in training, suggesting that if Ozil can work his way back into the starting lineup, he could still contribute positively to the team’s success.
Another factor that could impact his future is the COVID-19 pandemic. The financial implications of the crisis have hit football clubs hard, and the likelihood of finding a suitor for Ozil, who can match his current wages, seems unlikely. Additionally, with the expiration of the current television rights deal, clubs’ revenue streams might be disrupted, leading to financial constraints across the board. In such a scenario, Ozil might decide to see out his contract at Arsenal rather than risk a move that could result in a pay cut.
Ultimately, the decision on Ozil’s future rests with the player himself. His passion for Arsenal and his connection with the fans are evident, leading many to believe that he could still make a positive impact at the club. However, with the club’s ambitions to compete at the highest level and the financial constraints they currently face, a parting of ways might be on the horizon.
Only time will tell what lies ahead for Mesut Ozil and Arsenal. A potential contract extension remains a possibility if he can rediscover his best form and Arteta can integrate him effectively into the team. However, an exit to another club or the expiration of his contract in 2021 cannot be ruled out. The next few months will be crucial in determining the future of this talented yet enigmatic playmaker.
