Mesut Ozil's agent Erkut Sogut has opened up about his client's time at Arsenal, revealing why he turned down a pay cut back in 2020. The former German international arrived in north London for a then club-record £42.5million from Real Madrid back in the summer of 2013.
The talented playmaker helped the club clinch three FA Cup trophies during his time at the Emirates Stadium before eventually departing for Turkish giants Fenerbahce in January 2021. His time with the Gunners was filled with plenty of exciting moments, as well as controversy, including his decision to reject the club's pay cut offer during the early days of the Covid-19 pandemic.
Now, Sogut has explained what happened during the pay cut proposals, saying on AFTV's YouTube channel: "Mesut wanted guarantees that the money would be used for people inside the club and that no one would be fired. And Mesut said if that happens, he's willing to give more than the 15%.
READ MORE: Arsenal's dream summer transfer revealed after England boss Gareth Southgate drops £76m hint
"He said 'I can give 30, I don't mind,' as long as it's proven and signed." Sogut also opened up about some of the heartwarming charity work that Ozil did, speaking about the 33-year-old's work with children suffering from cancer.
He continued: "We had a 15-seater box at the Emirates, Mesut told me to reserve 5 seats for kids with cancer for every home game.
"He said 'don't touch these seats, we'll work with different charities in London.'" Sogut also admitted that Spanish playmaker Santi Cazorla was one of Ozil's favourite players at the club.
"He loved Santi, he was one of his favourite players at the club."
