Former German international Mesut Ozil, world champion in 2014, has decided at the age of 34 to retire from professional football.
"After careful consideration, I announce the end of my career as a footballer - writes Ozil on social media -. I have had the privilege of being a professional for almost 17 years and I am incredibly grateful for this opportunity. In recent weeks and months, which have including some injuries, it has become increasingly clear that the time is right to leave."
The Turkish-born midfielder played in the Bundesliga, at Schalke 04 and Werder Bremen, then moved on to play for Real Madrid and then Arsenal, where he remained for eight years.
After winning a lot with the two clubs, in 2021 he moved to Turkey, to Fenerbahce, then landing at Basaksehir.
Five years ago, following the controversy over having his picture taken with Turkish President Erdogan, Ozil had decided to leave the national team - where he finished with 92 caps and 23 goals - complaining of having received so many racist insults.
