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Mesut OzilGerman footballer of Turkish origin, plays for Real Madrid
Date of Birth: 15.10.1998
Country:  Spain |
Content:
- Mesut Özil: A German Football Star with Turkish Roots
- Werder Bremen Breakthrough
- International Breakthrough
- 2010 FIFA World Cup
- Real Madrid and Arsenal
- Retirements and Coaching Career
Mesut Özil: A German Football Star with Turkish Roots
Early Life and Playing CareerMesut Özil was born on October 15, 1988, in Gelsenkirchen, West Germany. His parents were Turkish immigrants, giving him an unusual name for Germany. From a young age, Özil demonstrated a passion for soccer, playing for local clubs Westfalia 04 Gelsenkirchen and Falke Gelsenkirchen.
In 2000, he signed his first professional contract with Rot-Weiss Essen, where he spent the next five years. In 2005, Özil joined the youth team of FC Schalke 04, quickly becoming a key playmaker. However, playing time and goalscoring opportunities were limited.
Werder Bremen Breakthrough
On January 31, 2008, at age 20, Özil signed a three-year contract with Werder Bremen for a reported transfer fee of over €4 million. He quickly became a regular starter, scoring 13 goals in two seasons.
International Breakthrough
Özil made his international debut for Germany in September 2007, playing for the under-21 team. In June 2009, he led the team to victory in the U-21 European Championship. In February 2009, he was called up to the senior German national team, making his debut on February 11 against Norway.
2010 FIFA World Cup
Özil gained international recognition at the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa. He started in four of Germany's first five games, scoring a goal against Ghana in the final group match. Against England, he provided an assist for Thomas Müller's goal. After Germany's 4-0 quarterfinal victory over Argentina, Özil was nominated for the Golden Ball award.
Real Madrid and Arsenal
In August 2010, Özil joined Spanish giants Real Madrid for a reported transfer fee of over €15 million. After three successful seasons, he moved to Arsenal in 2013.
Özil continued to shine at Arsenal, winning the FA Cup in 2014, 2015, and 2017. He also won the Premier League title in 2015-2016.
Retirements and Coaching Career
Özil retired from international football in 2018 and club football in 2022. In May 2023, he became the manager of Istanbul Başakşehir.
