It seems a long time ago that people were actually questioning Mesut Ozil’s impact at Arsenal.
Arsenal legend Robert Pires says Mesut Ozil can step up to the plate and deliver The Gunners’ first Premier League title in 13 years, as reported by Sky Sports.
The suave, soul-patched Frenchman was at his dazzling best the last time Arsene Wengers’ side secured the top honours in the English game, cruising through the entire season unbeaten in 2003/04.
And while the current crop may lack the majesty of Thierry Henry up front or the rampaging Patrick Vieira revving in the engine room, the Arsenal’s 2015/16 vintage is largely accepted as the club’s most complete squad since ‘the Invincibles’ took English football by storm.
Ozil, supplementing his ability to create a chance out of nothing with a new-found clinical streak in front of goal this season, will be crucial if Arsenal are to ensure their impressive start to the season is more than yet another false dawn and Pires feels he will be at the forefront of The Gunners’ title charge.
“At this point, Mesut Ozil can make the difference and I hope he can make Arsenal win the title this season because he has very good quality,” Pires told Sky Sports.
“Normally he wants to pass or assist, which is very good and I love it when you have a player like him on the pitch.
“But sometimes you need an ego, not too much, but a little bit of an ego. But I do not want to put too much pressure on Mesut though!”
Ozil endured a difficult adaptation to English football, with fans and pundits questioning his suitability to the Premier League and ability to make an impact in blockbuster encounters due to his frustrating penchant for drifting out of games.
However, there can be no such doubts about the German’s contribution now, particularly after he tore Chelsea apart in Arsenal’s 3-0 win back in September.
Wenger’s side travel to Old Trafford on Saturday boosted by the fitness of Alexis Sanchez, but Ozil will once again be the key to unlocking the opposition defence.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
