If you are German player of the year for 5 times in past 6 years, not many would call you a bad player. But former Chelsea player Ray Wilkins has hit out at Arsenal playmaker Mesut Ozil as he said that the German is “not a great player”. The Arsenal number 11 is nearing the end of his contract, and many think that he might leave along with Alexis Sanchez next summer. Even though Ozil has not cleared the air on his Arsenal future, he has not agreed to a new contract. Meanwhile, it was reported that Ozil could join rivals Manchester United for a reunion with Jose Mourinho. While some suggested that he could extend his stay at the Emirates if he is given Wilshere’s number 10.
Ray Wilkins slams "not great" Mesut Ozil, and claims he "doesn't deserve" Arsenal's No. 10 shirt https://t.co/O0V1JZX1kf pic.twitter.com/MasHvrq3MG
— Mirror Football (@MirrorFootball) November 12, 2017
Ozil good but never great
Wilkins, who was talking to talkSPORT said that the German is not a great player and never has been. He was also of the opinion that the Gunners need not give him the number 10 as he doesn’t deserve that.
“He is not a great player so why should he wear 10?” said the former Chelsea player, coach and caretaker manager.
“Why should he nick that off Jack? I think the word ‘great’ is used far too often.
“I don’t think he has ever been a great player. He’s been a fantastic player. I don’t think he is a great player. You see him in the Premier League week in week out, he’s a good player, he’s a very good player. But the word ‘great’ is used far too often in this game.”
42 – Since his @premierleague debut, Mesut Ozil has provided more assists (42) and created more chances (407) than any other player. Ya. pic.twitter.com/SBeOwr0V3F
— OptaJoe (@OptaJoe) October 12, 2017
Author’s Take
Ozil is widely accepted as a great player and considered as one of the best playmaker both in the Premier League and Europe. Ozil may not have been in his best of touch for some time around, but underestimating the German would be a big mistake any day. While his future at North London remains unclear, it would be interesting to see whether he decides to extend his stay or move to interested parties like Manchester United or Barcelona. What do you think, where will Ozil play next season? Tell us through your comments.