By Victor Kanayo
Germany’s football star, Mesut Ozil, has announced his retirement from professional football.
Ozil who won 2014 World Cup, revealed his latest decision via his Twitter handle on Wednesday.
The former Arsenal midfielder, blamed his recent injury struggles as part of the reason for his decision.
He wrote, “Hello everyone, After thoughtful consideration, I’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.
“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, Fenerbahce, Basaksehir and the coaches who supported me, plus teammates 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 you will hear from me from time to time on my social media channels.
“See you soon, Mesut!”
Özil played 254 games for Arsenal, more than for any other club, featuring in the FA Cup-winning runs in 2013/14, 2014/15, 2016/17, and 2019/20 football seasons.
He also won the Community Shield with the gunners, and finished as runner-up in the League Cup and the Europa League.
Özil won the German Cup with Werder Bremen, and La Liga, the Supercopa de Espana, and the Copa del Rey with Real Madrid.
