The World Cup of 2018 was one to forget for German football fans but the fall-out following their exit continues to rumble on. Germany manager Joachim Löw has now revealed his thoughts on Özil’s decision to retire and his allegations that he suffered racial discrimination due to his Turkish roots.
Özil did not speak to Low about retiring from Germany
Löw confirmed that Özil has not returned any of his calls or messages and that he did not speak to him regarding the decision to quit the national team. Both Özil and İlkay Gündoğan were pictured in a photo with the president of Turkey, which drew criticism from politicians and fans alike.
Germany’s humiliating World Cup exit
The controversy that followed this is thought to have been a big distraction to the team that made history for all of the wrong reasons this summer in Russia. They finished bottom of Group F after losing their final match to South Korea, which proved to be the biggest upset of the tournament.
Löw has now come out to give his side of the story, saying: “Mesut Özil has clearly overstated his allegations of racism.” He also went on to say: “I think we underestimated the situation with the photos, I too underestimated it.”
Özil’s performances in the World Cup were heavily criticised, as he was a player that had the tendency to play exceptionally well in tournaments. It didn’t happen this time and it looks like there is no way back into the national team now for him after the allegation of racism.
Özil missing for Arsenal last week
Özil has been causing concern at his club Arsenal too, with questions raised after he called in sick prior to last weekend’s match against West Ham. Whatever is happening with Mesut Özil, only he really knows right now and Arsenal fans will be hoping that he can put this unhappy episode behind him and concentrate on his football again.
