Why Everyone At Arsenal Respects Mesut Ozil

Mohamed Elneny revealed the sole reason why everyone respects Mesut Ozil despite his constant clash with the fans.

The German has been the centre of heavy criticism through the later parts of his Arsenal career. He was even deemed an unnecessary luxury by Unai Emery and outcasted by Freddie Ljungberg.

Ozil’s workrate or lack therof frustrated the Gunners faithful for years. While a minority supported his talent, Arteta has come in and given the German a new lease of life. Elneny outlined despite his struggles with the fans, Ozil was always an honoured figure in the Arsenal dressing room.

“When Mesut joined from Real Madrid I thought he would be arrogant and full of himself after playing at such a big club,” Elneny told Sabah. “However, he is so humble and respectful. He never saw himself above the club. There are footballers playing at far smaller clubs who have got a far bigger ego. Mesut surprised me and my team-mates at Arsenal, everyone has respect for him.”

Ozil, who is of Turkish descent advised Elneny about his loan switch to Besiktas at the beginning of this season.

“With Mesut we are like brothers,” continued the 27-year-old. “Before I moved to Turkey he was who I spoke to, he assisted me, I could ask him anything and asked about Besiktas, he advised me on my transfer.”