Mesut Özil Net Worth

Mesut Özil’s Net Worth and Career: A Deep Dive

Overview: Mesut Özil’s Financial Standing

Mesut Özil, the celebrated German football (soccer) player, has amassed a significant net worth throughout his illustrious career. His estimated net worth currently stands at $120 million, a testament to his talent, dedication, and lucrative contracts with top football clubs. Özil’s journey from the youth academies to global stardom is a compelling narrative of skill and financial success.

Özil’s career trajectory is marked by his exceptional playmaking abilities and his impact on both club and international levels. He is widely regarded as one of the most creative and intelligent players in the history of the sport. This article delves into the details of his financial success, career highlights, and the various facets of his life, painting a comprehensive picture of the football icon.

Early Life and Background

Mesut Özil was born on October 15, 1988, in Gelsenkirchen, West Germany, to Turkish immigrant parents. Growing up in a multicultural environment, he was fluent in both German and Turkish, though his early schooling in a predominantly Turkish community made mastering German a challenge. His upbringing was rooted in the Islamic faith, which he continues to practice. Özil’s passion for football ignited at a young age, setting the stage for his future career.

Club Career: From Bundesliga to Arsenal

Özil’s professional football journey began in Germany. He played for various youth clubs in Gelsenkirchen and Essen before joining Schalke’s youth system. His talent quickly became apparent, but he declined an early contract offer from Schalke, citing the offered salary as insufficient. In 2008, he moved to Werder Bremen for 5 million euros, where he honed his skills and caught the attention of major European clubs.

Real Madrid Stint and Rise to Prominence

Özil’s impressive performances at the 2010 FIFA World Cup attracted the attention of Real Madrid, who signed him for 15 million euros. He quickly secured a starting position due to an injury to Kaká. At Real Madrid, Özil showcased his playmaking abilities and became a fan favorite, known for his exceptional vision and passing skills. He finished the season with 25 assists, the highest in all European leagues, establishing himself as one of the best in the world.

Jose Mourinho, then the manager of Real Madrid, was a huge admirer of Özil and heavily relied on his creativity. Özil’s time at Real Madrid was the high point of his career, leading to Ballon d’Or nominations and a public desire to retire at the club. However, he ultimately moved to Arsenal in 2014.

Arsenal Years and Salary Controversy

In 2013, Özil joined Arsenal for a reported 42.5 million pounds, making him the most expensive German player at the time. He made an immediate impact, providing numerous assists and earning another Ballon d’Or nomination. In 2018, he signed a lucrative contract extension with Arsenal, doubling his salary and making him the highest-paid player in the club’s history. However, his playing time diminished over time, leading to questions and controversy. Despite remaining on the team’s roster, he was often left out of the starting lineup. This situation continued even after the resumption of the league following the COVID-19 suspension in 2020.

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International Career and World Cup Glory

Mesut Özil had a successful international career playing for the German national team. His contributions were instrumental in the team’s success, including winning the 2014 FIFA World Cup. He was also named German Player of the Year three times. However, after Germany’s disappointing performance at the 2018 World Cup, where they were eliminated in the group stages, Özil retired from international football, citing discrimination by the German Football Association as a key factor in his decision.

Style of Play: The Creative Maestro

Özil’s playing style is defined by his exceptional creativity and vision. As an attacking midfielder, he excels at creating goal-scoring opportunities for his teammates. He is known for his exceptional passing range, ability to read the game, and his knack for providing assists. While he often played as a playmaker, his positioning could vary, leading some to label him a “false 10.”

Though primarily known for assisting, Özil is also capable of scoring goals. His intelligence on the field is highly praised, allowing him to spot opportunities that others often miss. Despite his strengths, he has faced criticism for a perceived lack of defensive work rate.

Personal Life, Relationships, and Family

In his personal life, Özil has had public relationships, notably with German singer Mandy Capristo. The relationship lasted a year before ending amidst rumors. After a brief reconciliation, the couple ultimately split in 2017. Özil later began dating Amine Gülşe, a model and former Miss Turkey. The couple married in 2019 and welcomed their first child in 2020. To mark the occasion, they funded 1,000 surgeries for underprivileged children, demonstrating their commitment to philanthropy.

Real Estate and Other Investments

In 2016, Özil invested in a 10-million-pound home in North London, signaling his commitment to staying with Arsenal. The purchase sparked media interest, and the home underwent significant renovations, including the import of marble from Turkey and the creation of a home theater. He also owns two esports teams, one focused on FIFA in the EA Sports league and another on Fortnite, reflecting his interest in the digital world.

The Luxurious Car Collection

Özil’s passion for luxury extends to his car collection, valued at approximately 800,000 pounds. He favors German manufacturers and his collection includes a prized G63 AMG worth over 140,000 pounds. Other notable vehicles include a Mercedes S65 AMG (worth over 180,000 pounds), a Ferrari 458 Italia (worth 200,000 pounds), an SLS AMG (worth 165,000 pounds), a Porsche Panamera Turbo (worth 120,000 pounds), and several Audis.

Legacy and Impact on Football

Mesut Özil’s career has left an indelible mark on the world of football. He is remembered for his exceptional playmaking abilities, creativity, and vision. His contributions to both Real Madrid and Arsenal, as well as his success with the German national team, solidify his place as one of the most talented and influential midfielders of his generation. His career, though marked by ups and downs, remains an inspiration to aspiring footballers around the globe.