Mesut Ozil is trying to remain positive despite his “frustrating” exile from the Arsenal squad.
The Germany international became the club’s record signing when the Gunners parted with £42.5million to bring him to north London in 2013.
Ozil has 54 assists in his seven years at Arsenal – with 19 of them coming in a stellar 2015/16 season where he really caught the eye.
He was also an integral part of the Arsene Wenger side that won three FA Cup trophies in four seasons.
Now 32, Ozil has fallen rapidly out of favour under current boss Mikel Arteta, with his last appearance coming on March 7 – before football’s lockdown – in a 1-0 victory against West Ham United.
This term, Arteta decided not to select Ozil in either the Premier League squad or that for their Europa League campaign.
While questions were raised at the time, the decision has come under intense scrutiny in recent weeks due to the lack of creativity in the Arsenal ranks, coupled with their woeful start to the season.
The Gunners are 15th in the Premier League table, four points above the relegation zone, with just four wins from the 14 games.
Ozil hosted a Q&A with fans on Twitter, where he was asked by one supporter if he was happy at Arsenal.
“It’s a very difficult time for everyone around the club – not just for me,” Ozil said.
“The situation is frustrating for everyone. Of course I would wish I could help the team especially right now, but as long as I don’t get the chance I just hope that we get better results very soon again.”
The German then followed up that response with another tweet.
“But let's stay positive,” he said.
Ozil’s contract is set to expire in the summer, where an exit looks likely. He has been heavily linked with a move to Turkey.
