Mikel Arteta decided to drop Ozil from both his Premier League and Europa League squads for the season.
This raised outrage amongst the fan base but not many were shocked. Ozil had been left out ever since the season restart in July. Leno defended his compatriot while speaking to German news outlet, BILD.
Leno said, “Mesut is still a part of the team and trains with us. He is absolutely professional, both on the pitch and in the dressing room.
“Obviously it’s a disappointing situation for him, but Mesut handles it well and is absolutely loyal.”
Ozil is not perceived as the hardest-working player on the pitch. That is why Leno’s claims might be surprising to some. Ozil, however, has always maintained a professional approach.
He has never been involved in disciplinary issues or caught missing training during his stay at Arsenal. Despite Arsenal’s clear problems with creativity, Arteta has stood strong on his stance to dispose off the former Madrista.
Ozil will likely see out his contract and leave Arsenal next summer. As of now, he can only fulfil his duties of showing up to training and collecting the mammoth wages he is owed.
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