Former Arsenal and Germany star Lukas Podolski has given his reaction to his former teammate Mesut Ozil quitting international football.
Ozil cited the “racism and disrespect” he has faced in Germany over his Turkish roots as being driving factors behind his decision.
The Arsenal ace was criticised after being photographed with Turkish president Recep Tayyip Erdogan at a London event in May.
Ozil revealed in a three-part statement he received hate mail and threats and was being scapegoated for Germany crashing out of the group stage of the World Cup.
“I am German when we win, but I am an immigrant when we lose,” Ozil said.
Podolski reminisced about winning the World Cup together and shared a few photos of the big night.
The powerful forward revealed it was ‘magical’ to have Ozil as a teammate.
A tournament and historic night we will never forget. World Champions forever! ????? We won many times together, and sometimes we didnt, that’s football but with you it was always magical having you as a teammate for club and country. ?⚽ pic.twitter.com/j2G0bdIcVb
— Lukas-Podolski.com (@Podolski10) July 23, 2018
Podolski followed the Tweet with a second one remembering the great times spent together and urged Ozil to always keep his ‘positive spirit’.
We’ve shared many funny moments and laughs together, and I’m sure we will again. Always be happy and keep your positive spirit ????? https://t.co/K5m34SXyZ4
— Lukas-Podolski.com (@Podolski10) July 23, 2018
