Goal.com · Dec 20, 2019
'Ozil is a massive player' - Arteta looking to develop understanding with Arsenal star
Mesut Ozil is a "massive" player for Arsenal, according to new boss Mikel Arteta, who warned players to show passion and energy or risk being shown the door.
Ex-Gunners captain Arteta was appointed Unai Emery's successor after signing a three-and-a-half-year deal at Emirates Stadium, ending a protracted recruitment process.
Arteta was reportedly close to taking charge of Arsenal in 2018, when Arsene Wenger's reign ended, but he was overlooked in favour of Emery, who lasted 18 months in a forgettable spell.
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Ozil found himself sidelined frequently by Emery but has featured under interim boss Freddie Ljungberg and Arteta highlighted the former Germany playmaker's qualities.