Arsenal invincible Lauren has weighed into the debate on Mesut Ozil’s situation at the Emirates by telling Sky Sports if “you are a top player (but) not involved” every week, it’s “your own fault”.
The German midfielder hasn’t made a first-team appearance and has made the squad just twice since Project Restart. Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta has left Ozil out of his Premier League and Europa League squads, sparking plenty of controversy.
The former Real Madrid man released a statement on his social channels expressing his disappointment over the decision.
Ozil’s agent has also lashed out at Arsenal and Arteta for their treatment of his client, who can’t play for the club now until January at least (ESPN).
The situation has divided opinion across the footballing world. Some feel Arteta is right to keep Ozil away from the squad, while others feel the Arsenal boss has handled the situation poorly.
Lauren believes blame lies at Ozil’s door.
He said: “Ozil is a top player. It’s sad to see a top player not being involved in a team like Arsenal. Arteta would love to have the best players in the squad.
“If Ozil is not there it’s a consequence of many issues. First of all, it’s the fault of the player. I believe if you have the quality, if you are a top player, if you are not involved week in week out, I believe that’s your own fault.
“Obviously all of the club have to try to do their best to make the player happy and be in the squad and be in the team and play every weekend.
“But the fact that with Emery and now with Arteta he hasn’t been consistent. It is not the manager. I believe it is more the player than the manager or the club.”
Stand-off unlikely to change
Arteta has been clear it was his decision to leave the German out and the chances of him changing that stance in January seem slim.
Perhaps Arsenal will look to end Ozil’s contract early. Whatever happens, if the saga continues until the end of the German’s deal, there will be no winners.
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