Mesut Ozil aims dig at Chelsea when naming shock pick for 'world's best defender'

Former Arsenal star Mesut Ozil aimed a thinly-veiled dig at Chelsea on social media when naming his world's best defender.

Ozil enjoyed seven seasons at Arsenal following his transfer from Real Madrid in 2013, winning four FA Cup during his time at the Emirates.

And he seemingly still has the club in his heart as he took aim at the current demise at Chelsea, who occupy 10th place in the Premier League table.

Ozil's old team Real beat Real Mallorca 1-0 on Wednesday as Antonio Rudiger scored the only goal of the game.

After the game, Carlo Ancelotti hailed Rudiger as he stated he is 'doing his best' this season.

"He has taken advantage of others’ injuries. He is performing at a very high level, with continuity. He is always ready in duels. He is an insurance that we have behind. He is doing his best," said the veteran Italian boss.

Ozil reacted to Ancelotti's claim by hailing Rudiger as the 'world's best defender'.

In doing so, he taunted Chelsea as he claimed they are missing the star defender's mentality.

"Prime Toni Rudiger is just the world's best defender at the moment," he tweeted.

"Incredible season for my former club Real Madrid. You can also ask Haaland or Osimhen how good he is! Look what has happened with Chelsea after he left... they are missing his mentality every day..."

Prime Toni Rüdiger is just the world's best defender at the moment 🔥 Incredible season for my former club Real Madrid. You can also ask Haaland or Osimhen how good he is! Look what has happened with Chelsea after he left … they are missing his mentality every day … 👊🏼 https://t.co/izFYchdWEI

— Mesut Özil (@M10) January 3, 2024

Rudiger, 30, left the Stamford Bridge outfit in the summer of 2022 after five seasons at the club.

He signed for the La Liga giants on a free transfer and has increased his reputation following his performances in Spain.

The German international has played 24 games in all competitions this campaign, having made 53 appearances last season.

Chelsea, meanwhile, have shipped in 31 goals this season and are struggling under Mauricio Pochettino, who could do with calling upon Rudiger's defensive services.