"It's time to leave the big stage" - Ex-Arsenal and Real Madrid star Mesut Ozil announces retirement

Mesut Ozil has announced his retirement from professional football. The former Real Madrid and Arsenal star has called it quits after almost 17 years of playing in four different countries.

Taking to Twitter, Ozil thanked his former clubs - Schalke 04, Werder Bremen, Real Madrid, Arsenal, Fenerbahce and Basaksehir - and extended it to his coaches and former teammates.

He posted:

"After thoughtful consideration, I'm announcing my immediate retirement from professional football. I've had the privilege to be a professional football player for almost 17 years now and I feel incredibly thankful for the opportunity. But in recent weeks and months, having also suffered some injuries, it's become more and more clear that it's time to leave the big stage of football."

Ozil added:

"It has been an amazing journey filled with unforgettable moments and emotions. I want to thank my clubs - Schalke 04, Werder Bremen, Real Madrid, Arsenal FC, Fenerbahçe, Başakşehir and the coaches who supported me, plus team-mates who have become friends."

He continued:

"Special thanks must go to my family members and my closest friends. They have been a part of my journey from day one and have given me so much love and support, through the good times and the bad. Thank you to all my fans who have shown me so much love no matter the circumstances and no matter which club I was representing."

Mesut Ozil to continue being active on social media

Mesut Ozil was highly active on social media last season when Arsenal were finding it hard to get results going their way. He constantly posted after the Gunners dropped points, but has gone silent about them this season.

His statement continued:

"Now I'm looking forward to everything that is in front of me with my beautiful wife, Amine, and my two beautiful daughters, Eda and Ela - but you can be sure that you will hear from me from time to time on my social media channels."

Ozil has an eSports team and could be active on their social media account.