MESUT OZIL insists he will stay at Arsenal “this season and next” – with an “exciting future” under new boss Mikel Arteta.
German playmaker Ozil is back as a regular since Arteta succeeded axed Unai Emery, after being linked with a Fenerbahce loan deal.
Arsenal midfielder Mesut Ozil insists he is happy to stay as the new reign of Mikel Arteta blossomsCredit: Getty Images – Getty
And he told Bein Sports Turkey he will be “very pleased” to see out his contract until June 2021.
Ozil, 31, has publicly hailed Arteta’s influence on and off the pitch since the ex-Gunners midfielder left his role as Manchester City No2 last month for his first position in charge.
And now Ozil has gone further still with his Arteta endorsement.
The former Real Madrid star said: “I’m very pleased with my contract and I will continue here this season and next.
“I can’t tell you what the future will bring, I’m excited about the future, but I don’t know what’s going to happen.”
For much of this season a temporary escape to Turks Fenerbahce, the club he supported as a boy, seemed both possible and advisable for Ozil.
He was under fire for his attitude and muted form, while seemingly unhappy under Emery.
But Arteta appears to have reignited Ozil’s craft and graft.
Ozil said: “It is basically getting us back to the old Arsenal virtues.
“Fighting and having possession, being in control of the game, having the ball all the time.
“These are the things that he is working on with us and you can see it — everyone is smiling, laughing, enjoying their time. It has made us successful.
“I think he is the right man at this club.”
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk