This archive report was first published on 18 June 2020.
On June 18, 2020, Arsenal playmaker Mesut Ozil took to social media to express his feelings about being left out of the matchday squad against Manchester City, a move that sparked speculation about his future at the club.
Despite being fully fit, Ozil was not included in Mikel Arteta's plans for the crucial game, which ended in a 3-0 defeat for the Gunners at the Etihad.
Arteta downplayed Ozil's absence, attributing it to tactical reasons, stating, "Because I need players in other positions as well and that's the reason I decided to leave him out," during a post-match interview.
Ozil, who is the club's highest earner on a £350,000 per week deal, has been at the center of speculation about his future at Arsenal, with some fans questioning his work ethic and role at the team.
However, in a reassuring message on Instagram, Ozil pledged his loyalty to the club, saying, "No matter what," as he shared a photo holding the Arsenal badge.
The 31-year-old's future at Arsenal remains uncertain, with the team set to face Brighton and Hove Albion in their next match, where it remains to be seen whether Ozil will get the chance to earn his wages on the pitch.
