Arsenal star Mesut Özil has stated that he has become fitter after participating in his first pre-season training with Arsenal.

The 26-year-old arrived from Real Madrid for €42 million back in August 2013 and missed last season’s pre-season training after winning the 2014 World Cup with Germany.

“I’ve noticed myself that the training sessions we’ve had here are helping me to become fitter,” Özil told Arsenal Player.

“I want to get through pre-season without any injury and then we can see. I know exactly how I can use my body.

“We had three weeks holiday – maybe that was a bit too short – but I’m looking forward to the new season and to our new challenge.”

Özil has spent the week on holiday in Istanbul, Turkey. The World Cup winner is expected to travel back to North London for the Emirates Cup against Lyon, Wolfsburg and Villarreal on the weekend.

The 26-year-old was part of the Gunners side that lifted the Barclays Asia Trophy cup in Singapore last Saturday after defeating Everton 3-1.

The former Real Madrid star has won two Vitality Arsenal Player of the Month and a PFA Fans Player of the Month award since the turn of the year.

Özil provided nine assists and five goals in 32 appearances for Arsenal in all competitions last season.

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