Mesut Ozil has retired from professional football at the age of 34.
The former Real Madrid, Arsenal and Fenerbahce midfielder, who made 92 appearances for Germany between 2009 and 2018, announced the news in a statement on Wednesday morning.
He wrote: "Hello everyone, After thoughtful consideration, I'm announcing my immediate retirement from professional football.
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"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, its become more and more clear that its 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, Ba§akwhir and the coaches who supported me, plus team-mates 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!"
Ozil has called time on his trophy-laden career after a short spell with Turkish side İstanbul Başakşehir. He made just six appearances for the club in all competitions.
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At the peak of his career, the German playmaker was arguably one of the best attacking midfielders in world football.
Having won La Liga and the Copa del Rey with Real Madrid, he moved to England in 2013, joining Arsenal in a £42.5 million switch on Transfer Deadline Day.
He notched 54 goals and 33 assists in 184 Premier League appearances and lifted three FA Cups at the Emirates, where he established himself as a fan favourite.
So what's next for the former Germany international? Well, Ozil's agent Dr Erkut Sogut recently revealed his love for competitive gaming and streaming.
He told The Telegraph: "I think he will not play football in any other club any more. I can't see that – it will be Fenerbahce and that’s it.
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“He will go more into esports, play himself and maybe become an esports athlete. He’s really good, to be honest, at Fortnite and I think one day I wouldn’t be surprised if he is competing.
"He owns a team – M10 Esports – and he has players. He has a gaming house in Germany. He has football, like Fifa, and Fortnite.”
We wish Mesut all the best in his future endeavours.
Topics: Mesut Ozil, Arsenal, Real Madrid, Fenerbahce, Germany
Jack Kenmare