Mesut Ozil’s Erdogan furore: Germany star quits national team over ‘racism’ following picture with Turkish president
Mesut Ozil, who has Turkish roots, says German football officials, fans and media have mistreated him after photograph with President Recep Tayyip Erdogan
Mesut Ozil has quit the German national team, claiming he has been the victim of “racism” in the criticism he has faced since posing for a picture with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.
The Arsenal star posted a four-page statement on Twitter and Instagram on Sunday, announcing he would not be available for international selection going forward.
The 29-year-old, who has Turkish roots, had his loyalty to Germany’s squad questioned by German media and fans when he posed for the controversial photograph ahead of the World Cup in Russia.
“It is with a heavy heart and after much consideration that because of recent events, I will no longer be playing for Germany at international level whilst I have this feeling of racism and disrespect,” he said.
“I used to wear the German shirt with such pride and excitement, but now I don’t. This decision has been extremely difficult to make because I have always given everything for my teammates, the coaching staff and the good people of Germany.”
Ozil blamed the German Football Federation (DFB) for failing to stand up for him, and singled out DFB President Richard Grindel.