'Ozil might live to regret these wasted years' says Arsenal legend Smith

Alan Smith is surprised to hear that Mesut Ozil intends to see out the rest of his Arsenal contract and suggested the German may live to regret it.

Ozil confirmed last week that he plans to see out the time left on his Arsenal contract, which expires in June 2021. He made no further comment on his future plans. A move to Turkey with Fenerbahce is often touted, though.

This announcement was somewhat expected despite the German’s lack of opportunities. Mikel Arteta completely froze him out for undisclosed reasons after lockdown ended. Thus, Ozil has played no football since setting-up Alexandre Lacazette’s winner against West Ham on March 7.

One of the obvious reasons for wanting to remain in north London is down to his lucrative £350,000-per-week salary.

But Smith thinks Ozil should reconsider his stance for the good of his own football career.

“As for Mesut Ozil, the tiresome saga rolls on,” the former striker told Sky Sports.

“In an interview this week, the German insisted he is staying at Arsenal, even though he obviously does not feature in Arteta’s plans.

“This is a funny one. Ozil is well within his rights to see out a four-year contract the club were happy enough to give, but from a purely football aspect, why would you do that if you are not going to play?

“‘This is my profession’, he says. ‘It’s what I love doing: being on the pitch, playing matches, showing the people, helping the club and my team’. Ok, so if you love playing so much, why not go somewhere you’re actually wanted?

“There’s an old saying in football – you are a long time retired. Come to the end of his career, he might live to regret these wasted years.”