He is one of the most enigmatic footballers in the world, dividing opinion like few others, especially among Arsenal fans.



On and off the pitch, his highs and lows generate endless debate, praise and criticism. In recent months, he has been a peripheral figure for his club, attacked by thugs near his home and increasingly divorced from Germany, the team he helped to win the World Cup in 2014.



Until today, he has also kept his counsel, declining to speak publicly about any of those issues. But in an exclusive interview with The Athletic, Mesut Ozil breaks his silence.



During a wide-ranging conversation, the 31-year-old discusses:



His intention to stay at Arsenal until “at least” the summer of 2021



Why he believes condemnation of his performances is “ridiculous”



The moped attack that left his wife feeling “scared” in their own home



How “racist abuse” forced him to quit the...