Mesut Özil announces his retirement from soccer
The German footballer has announced that he has broken his contract with Istanbul Basaksehir and has decided to retire from soccer at the age of 34.
Soccer player for 17 years
«I have had the privilege of being a professional soccer player for almost 17 years, and I feel very grateful for that. But in recent weeks and months, after suffering some injuries, it has become more evident that it is time for me to leave the big stage of soccer,» the German explained on his social media.
More than 600 games
The international midfielder has had a successful career that spanned more than 600 games for some of Europe’s top clubs. Over the years he has played for teams such as Arsenal, Schalke 04, Werder Bremen and Real Madrid. His last years have been spent in Turkish soccer, playing for Fenerbahce and Basaksehir.
92 matches for Germany
Özil leaves with 92 caps for Germany. He has 114 goals and 200 assists to his name.
The World Cup, its greatest success
The greatest achievement in his career was winning the 2014 World Cup in Brazil with Germany.
Debut at 17 years of age
Özil made his Bundesliga debut at the age of 17 with Schalke 04 in 2006. After playing there for two seasons, he signed for Werder Bremen.
Physical problems
Physical problems in recent months have been the key to Özil’s decision to retire.
