German football expert, Raphael Honigstein claims that Mesut Ozil’s absence from the Arsenal starting lineup might have something to do with the club’s business ideas rather than a tactical one.
The attacking midfielder was left out again in Europa League’s 1-0 first leg loss against BATE Borisov last night which raised plenty of questions regarding what is truly going on behind closed doors.
Speaking on the issue, Honigstein explained, “I think it depends who you listen to and what kind of explanation you want to buy into. I think there might be some kind of straight-forward sporting explanation where you could say he hasn’t performed well enough.”
“But there is also a financial aspect where there may have been a decision to kind of freeze him out and to get to the point where he feels he has to move on. I think it is very difficult to draw the line and I think it is a bit of a grey area but I don’t feel it is just about sport. I think that Arsenal need to make some space on the wage bill and that is a key factor he as well.”
Former Chelsea player and Premier League winner agreed with Honigsteing’s opinion and further added, “I think personally it is more of a business decision why he is not playing. From what I understand the manager is not happy with his level as well but I think that there comes a time where you just have to cut ties.”
“I have no doubt that he is a world-class player but I think that the time has come where it is just time to move on.”
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