Ozil issues emotional goodbye to Arsenal fans

Carlo Garganese

• Updated: 19 May 2021 15:43 BST
• 5 min read

Mesut Ozil has issued an emotional goodbye to Arsenal fans after ending his seven-and-a-half-year spell at the club.

The World Cup winner rescinded his contract with the Gunners in order to sign for Turkish giants Fenerbahce.

And now the 32-year-old has penned a tearful message of thanks to all Gooners on his official Twitter account.

“Seven-and-a-half years. Nearly 3000 days. It feels strange to be writing this message after such a long time here in London,” Ozil began.

“Since the moment I arrived, it has felt like home. I was welcomed with open arms by all the Arsenal staff, my teammates, and most importantly the incredible fans.

“I will always be grateful for the trust placed in me by Arsene Wenger in September of 2013. I’ve grown up as an adult in North London, a place I can always call home. I’ll never forget that.

“Being with Arsenal for so long has meant I’ve experienced a big mix of ups and downs. Over 250 games, 44 goals and 71 assists later, it’s time that Arsenal and I finally part ways.

“Together we ended the club’s nine-year trophy drought and brought long-needed silverware back to the fans who deserved it.

“It is difficult for me to put into words the love I feel for this club and the fans. How could I possibly describe eight years of gratitude in a single letter?

“Whilst I may no longer be playing for the club, I will continue to support them in every game they play. I will be a Gunner for life – no doubt about that. Now more than ever we must all be behind the team.

“This season is a tough one for every team in the Premier League, and that is why we must all back the current squad and staff no matter the results.

“For me, it’s been amazing to see some of the boys from the Hale End coming through into the first-team setup. As we all know, they are the future of our club, and I wish them every success!

“Hearing my name chanted around the Emirates will forever give me goosebumps, and the memories I’ve made putting on this jersey will stick with me for life.

“Much has been written about my time at Arsenal, especially in recent months. Arsenal is a club of class and prestige, something that I felt every time I walked onto the pitch. Players, staff and management always come and go – but the club’s values and fans will remain forever.

“The principles of class, respect and dignity must never be forgotten. It is the responsibility of every single person from the club to make sure they carry out their job in the name of these values.

“As I said, the past few months have not been the easiest. Like every player, I want to play every minute of football for my team. In life, however, things do not always play out how we expect or want them to. But it is important to look for the positives in life and not the negatives, which is why I try to live with no regrets and holding no grudges.

“Being at Arsenal was more than just football, it was about community. As much as I tried to assist on the pitch, I tried to be part of the London community as much as I could.

“North London took me in as one of its own, and every season I embarked on a different project to bring happiness to this incredible community. Although I might be leaving North London, this will not stop.

“It might be the end of a chapter, but my connection with this amazing club will never fade. It might be goodbye for now, but it’s not goodbye forever.

“To the Arsenal fans around the world: YaGunnersYa.

“Mesut.”

Ozil made 254 appearances for Arsenal, scoring 44 goals and winning four FA Cup trophies.