Former Arsenal star Mathieu Flamini has become the latest sporting celebrity to come out and defender Mesut Ozil after announcing his retirement from the Germany national team on the grounds of racism and discrimination.
The past couple of weeks have given me time to reflect, and time to think over the events of the last few months. Consequently, I want to share my thoughts and feelings about what has happened. pic.twitter.com/WpWrlHxx74
— Mesut Özil (@MesutOzil1088) July 22, 2018
II / III pic.twitter.com/Jwqv76jkmd
— Mesut Özil (@MesutOzil1088) July 22, 2018
III / III pic.twitter.com/c8aTzYOhWU
— Mesut Özil (@MesutOzil1088) July 22, 2018
Flamini shared a photograph holding hands with Ozil alongside a message which revealed he was proud of his stance.
In the face of such disappointing behaviour, I am so proud of you for standing up for your humanity, integrity and identity. I’ve always got your back! Love you bro #sport #football #arsenal #unity pic.twitter.com/veMXzCQsZ2
— Mathieu flamini (@mathieuflamini) July 24, 2018
Flamini enjoyed a budding bromance with Ozil during his time at the North London based outfit.
“They are twins. I’ve played with twins, in Fabio and Rafael Da Silva, but these are closer,” Danny Welbeck stated (Mirror).
Theo Walcott has described the special bond the two players have as being ‘Flamzil’ and went as far to say: “They go to the gym together, have massaged together I wouldn’t be surprised if they even share a house together.”
Daniel Welbeck described the two players fondness for each other in an interview on the Arsenal Media: “The bromance of the season award goes to Mesut Özil and Flamini they are twins. I’ve played with twins, in Fabio and Rafael Da Silva, but these are closer.”
Ozil is currently in Singapore with the Arsenal squad for the pre-season International Champions Cup friendly tournament.
