Ex Arsenal and Real Madrid star Mesut Ozil retire from playing football

Ozil, a former Germany, Real Madrid, and Arsenal player, has announced his retirement at age 34.

At the age of 34, Mesut Ozil, a former midfielder for Germany, Real Madrid, and Arsenal, has declared his retirement.

The announcement was made on Instagram by the German international and former Arsenal midfielder, who read:

 'Hello everyone, After thoughtful consideration, l'm announcing my immediate retirement from professional football.

'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.'

Mesut was acquired by the Premier League team from Real Madrid in a record-breaking £42.5 million transaction in 2013 under Arsene Wenger.

In 45 games during that season, Ozil directly assisted 28 goals.

The gifted midfielder generated 146 opportunities, a startling number that still stands as the most in a single season since Opta began keeping data over two decades ago. He contributed 19 assists in the Premier League, one less than Thierry Henry's record, and one less than the previous best.

His statement continued: '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, Basaksehir and the coaches who supported me, plus team-mates 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.

'Thank you to all my fans who have shown me so much love no matter the circumstances and no matter which club I was representing.

'Now I'm looking forward to everything that is in front of me with my beautiful wife, Amine, and my two beautiful daughters, Eda and Ela - but you can be sure that vou will hear from me from time to time on my social media channels

'See you soon, Mesut!'

During Mesut Ozil's first two years in north London, his team won back-to-back FA Cups and Germany won the World Cup.

Once Mesut Ozil signed a new deal in 2018, everything started to fall apart. According to rumors, Ozil's performance had declined and he was receiving less playing time.

After Ozil's contract with Arsenal was dissolved, he decided to join Fenerbahce in Turkey.

A disagreement with the club led to the early termination of his contract only a few months after his transfer to Fenerbahce.

The Turkish Super Lig Ozil moving to Istanbul Başakşehir in 2022.

Mesut Ozil also had a terrific experience when playing for Real Madrid in Spain, where he spent three years and won the La Liga and Cup del Rey.