Mesut Ozil could reunite with a former coach next summer as he sorts out his future.
According to a report from the Telegraph, Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho has identified Ozil as his ideal signing to fit the side’s No. 10 role, which Mourinho reportedly believes isn’t being adequately filled. Ozil was previously signed by Mourinho at Real Madrid in 2010 after the World Cup, joining from Schalke, and went on to star for Los Blancos for three seasons.
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The timing of this report comes just hours before Man United head south to face Ozil and Arsenal. In addition, this could be Ozil’s last month or two with the Gunners, as he’s in the final year of his contract and has yet to sign a new deal. Arsenal could theoretically sell him in January to see some return on their investment, unless they’re prepared to let him leave this summer for free.
It’s possible that the news was leaked the day before the game on-purpose, potentially to unsettle Ozil and/or the Arsenal squad prior to a massive game. In addition, Arsenal fans wouldn’t take too kindly for one of their stars heading to a league rival, like Robin Van Persie did in 2012.
3 - Mesut Ozil has had a hand in three goals in a single Premier League game for the first time in his career (one goal, two assists). Confidence. pic.twitter.com/QzvkSJwBVt
— OptaJoe (@OptaJoe) November 29, 2017
But on paper, Ozil could be the missing link for Man United, providing expert service for the likes of Romelu Lukaku and Marcus Rashford, while connecting with Paul Pogba in midfield and the backline. Henrikh Mkhitaryan, Juan Mata and others haven’t had the success in the No. 10 role that Mourinho has reportedly wanted.
Should Man United move for Ozil in January, it could help push them over Manchester City. If Man United waits, it could mean settling for second place this season.