Arsenal have sent their tributes to former Gunners star Mesut Ozil after he announced his retirement from professional football on Wednesday.
The 2010 World Cup winner spent eight years in north London after signing for £42.5 million from Real Madrid in 2013. Ozil helped the club win four FA Cup titles and contributed to 123 goals in 254 appearances before joining Fenerbahce in 2021.
Since leaving the Emirates Stadium, Ozil has suffered a number of injuries. After making only 37 appearances for Fenerbahce, his summer move to Basaksehir FK was his final career change before he called time on his career.
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In a statement on social media, Ozil wrote: "After thoughtful consideration, I'm announcing my immediate retirement from professional football.
"I've had the privilege to be a professional football player for almost 17 years now and I feel incredibly thankful for the opportunity. But in recent weeks and months, having also suffered some injuries, it's become more and more clear that it's time to leave the big stage of football.
"It has been an amazing journey filled with unforgettable moments and emotions. I want to thank my clubs - Schalke 04, Werder Bremen, Real Madrid, Arsenal FC, Fenerbahce, Basaksehir and the coaches who supported me, plus team-mates who have become friends.
"Special thanks must go to my family members and my closest friends. They have been a part of my journey from day one and have given me so much love and support, through the good and the bad.
"Thank you to all my fans who have shown me so much love no matter the circumstances and no matter which club I was representing. Now I'm looking forward to everything that is in front of me with my beautiful wife, Amine, and my two beautiful daughters, Eda and Ela - but you can be sure that you will hear from me from time to time on my social media channels *wink emoji*.
"See you soon, Mesut!"
Following the German's retirement, Arsenal were on hand to send their own tribute on social media. Alongside a minute-and-a-half of his best moments in red, a caption read: "Thanks for the memories - wishing you all the best in your retirement *red heart*."
The video involved a number of special moments throughout his time in England, involving his first goal for the club against Napoli, his famous strike at Ludogorets and a number of historic goals in north London.
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