Arsenal
Is The Constant Criticism Of Mesut Ozil At Arsenal Justified?
Very few players in the world currently divide opinions as Mesut Ozil. Despite a great honeymoon following his move from Real Madrid to London last summer, the German hasn’t been able to live up to his expectations. But why is his marriage with the Gunners looks to be on the rocks? And after last night’s lack-luster performance against Borussia Dortmund, German Daily Bild rated Ozil as someone who ‘didn’t earn his money’.
Mesut Ozil, the very name that, at the close of the transfer window last year, gave Arsenal fans everywhere a sense of excitement. It was on deadline day last season when the news was announced that Wenger had pulled off possibly the signing of the summer -a club record signing of a world-beater and the purchase that was going to lead Arsenal to a bright new future.
Ozil’s capture were heralded as a new dawn at Arsenal
But despite all the success the team had last season it was one that Ozil may want to forget. He was criticised heavily by the media throughout the campaign and he’ll be looking to put things right as Arsenal look to mount a serious title challenge this year. Many said his performances were lacklustre, not up to the premier league’s physical style of football and he’s already beginning to feel the full brunt of similar criticism in the few games he’s played so far this campaign. But is this constant criticism of the World Cup winning German justified?
Ozil is an enigmatic presence, somebody that goes through the majority of matches at his own pace whilst maintaining the genius ability to be able to spot a run and create goals for others around him. This is something that many Arsenal fans and pundits alike fail to recognise, he is a needy little genius and isn’t somebody who is going to carry the team on his own. His work rate has been questioned as well, you won’t find him tracking back for the team as impressively as say the like of new boy Alexis Sanchez, but if played centrally and with talented players around him he will shine as he did at Madrid. This though could also be seen as a weakness in Ozil’s game, his ability is there for all to see but to fully utilise this ability he needs the world’s very best players around him to flourish, something which at Arsenal is maybe not the case when you compare it to the players he had with him at Real.
Another criticism thrown at Ozil is that he doesn’t perform well in the big games, a criticism that after watching the City-Arsenal game at the weekend seems somewhat justified. It was a poor performance from the German as Arsenal were pegged back by City who claimed a point at the Emirates. He seemed wasteful, City were trying to control it with their slick passing game and Arsenal looked to hit them on the counter whenever they could with the pace of Sanchez and Welbeck. But whenever Ozil got it in a forward position on the counter he seemed to slow things down and this negatively affected the gunners attacking performance.
This though could be down to the fact that he was being played out of position, he was deployed wide left rather than down the middle and with the work rate of Zabaleta and the pace of Navas, Ozil struggled. Ozil himself isn’t exactly the quickest and isn’t a wide midfielder at all, to fully get the best out of him Wenger must play him in that number 10 role behind the striker. Mourinho said of Ozil when he joined Arsenal that he is the best number 10 in the world so why doesn’t Wenger play him there?
But ultimately it is down to him to improve and whether or not he is being played out of position he should use the undoubted talent at his disposal to help his team and avoid going missing in the bigger games. But there are a few things to remember, he wasn’t a flop last season as games such as Napoli and Everton at home suggest and is capable of producing when it matters like his performance in the world cup final where he played out wide, suggesting that he can play there if he is in the right mind-set.
Ozil with the World Cup
He possesses a talent that needs to be cherished by Arsenal fans, not ignored. Regardless of whether he’s been in top form or not he has had a summer to celebrate. He’s won the FA cup with Arsenal and then the World cup with Germany. And he is clearly still buzzing about it. “I’m really proud. Every footballer wants to win this great trophy but it is very, very rare and I managed it. And I won it in Brazil where the atmosphere was fantastic, especially in the games against Brazil and Argentina where it was very dramatic. We became world champions because we were very strong and stayed together as a team. We had this unique team spirit”.
Winning the world cup is bound to have an effect on any player and for Arsenal fans they will be hoping it has a positive one rather than negative one on Ozil so he can show everybody that he still is the same Mesut Ozil as the one that finished with the most domestic assists in Europe in 2011 and 2012 and the one who tore England apart in 2010 in Bloemfontein. Place him at the centre with the right players in suitable environment and enjoy as the left footed star wreaks havoc in the opposition final third.
Arsenal Dragon
Three Years, Eight Months and 10 Days: Arsenal Stalemate Ends ‘This’ Run For Tottenham Which Began Way Back in 2022
Tottenham Women’s extraordinary 81-game streak without a goalless draw in the WSL finally ended on Sunday after a disciplined 0-0 stalemate against Arsenal at Brisbane Road.
The remarkable run spanning three years, eight months and 10 days represented one of the most unusual statistical quirks in women’s football, stretching all the way back to March 2022.
Tottenham’s Remarkable 81-Game Run Without Goalless Draw Finally Ends in Arsenal Stalemate After 1,346 Days
Tottenham’s last goalless draw before Sunday came against Reading on March 13, 2022. The statistics are staggering. Across 69 complete league matches spanning the 2022/23, 2023/24 and 2024/25 seasons, Tottenham never failed to find the net or concede.
Sunday’s result at Brisbane Road broke that pattern in front of a record-breaking 6,778 fans who witnessed a tactical battle where neither attack could break through. Arsenal dominated possession and registered 13 shots but found Tottenham’s defensive organization impenetrable.
Defensive Foundation for Impressive Campaign
The clean sheet showcased the defensive progress under manager Robert Vilahamn. Goalkeeper Lize Kop and her backline recorded their fourth WSL clean sheet of the campaign—six across all competitions, matching Chelsea’s Hannah Hampton for the joint-highest tally in the division at this stage.
Tottenham’s start to the 2025/26 season has exceeded expectations. They sit fifth in the table with 16 points from nine matches, just four points shy of last season’s entire total achieved across 22 games.
The point gained in the north London derby felt like a significant statement. Tottenham frustrated their fierce rivals whilst ending a statistical anomaly that had defined their recent WSL existence.
Whether this signals a tactical evolution towards greater defensive discipline or simply represents a one-off remains to be seen, but the 1,346-day wait for another goalless draw has finally concluded.
Read More: 3 Things We Learned From Arsenal Women’s Frustrating 0-0 Draw Against Tottenham Women
Player Profile
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Yan Diomande |
| Age | 19 years old (Born: November 14, 2006) |
| Position | Left Winger / Right Winger |
| Current Club | RB Leipzig |
| Height | Not publicly disclosed |
| Preferred Foot | Right |
| Contract | Until June 2030 (5-year deal) |
| Market Value | €100 million (Leipzig valuation) |
| Transfer Fee Paid | €20 million (from Leganes, July 2025) |
| International | Ivory Coast (2 caps, 2 goals) |
| Previous Clubs | Leganes, DME Academy (USA) |
Scout Report
Overview
Yan Diomande represents one of European football’s most remarkable breakout stories in 2025-26. The 19-year-old Ivorian winger has exploded onto the Bundesliga scene just months after RB Leipzig activated his €20 million release clause from Spanish second-tier side Leganes. His four goals and three assists in 10 appearances have attracted interest from Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester United, Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, Barcelona, and PSG.
Career Path
Diomande’s journey began in Abidjan, Ivory Coast, before his family relocated to the United States. He played high school football for Yulee Hornets in Florida before enrolling at DME Academy in Daytona Beach, where scouts first noticed his raw talent.
He featured for DME’s affiliate AS Frenzi in the amateur UPSL, winning the 2023 United Premier Soccer League Premier Division and earning 2023 STARI Player of the Year honors.
After unsuccessful trials with MLS sides Colorado Rapids and Charlotte FC, plus Scottish giants Rangers and clubs in England and Greece, Diomande signed with Leganes in November 2024. Shortly before his move to Spain, tragedy struck when his younger sister passed away. “My little sister died shortly before I signed my contract in Spain,” Diomande revealed. He promised his mother to dedicate his next goal to her, breaking down emotionally when scoring his first professional goal in May 2025 against Espanyol.
He made just seven appearances for Leganes before Leipzig identified him as a future star, paying his €20 million release clause in July 2025 and securing him on a five-year contract through June 2030.
Playing Style
Diomande operates primarily as a left winger despite being right-footed, allowing him to cut inside and create shooting opportunities. His technical ability in tight spaces, combined with sharp movement and creativity, makes him dangerous when receiving possession in advanced positions.
His purple patch of form has been extraordinary—scoring three goals in three consecutive games while registering three assists in his last three outings. These numbers reflect either a hot streak or genuine elite quality emerging. Time will determine which, but his current trajectory suggests the latter.
Diomande’s versatility allows him to play on both flanks and feature in midfield, offering tactical flexibility managers crave. His attacking awareness and eye for goal have impressed scouts across Europe, particularly during his Player of the Match performance against Stuttgart where he scored in a 3-1 victory in front of numerous observers.
Physical Attributes
While specific height and weight measurements aren’t publicly available, match footage shows Diomande possesses the pace and agility needed to beat defenders one-on-one. His quick feet and ability to change direction rapidly make him difficult to contain in wide areas.
His stamina allows him to maintain intensity across 90 minutes, pressing defensively when required while making repeated attacking runs. This work rate aligns with modern winger expectations at elite clubs like Arsenal.
Mental Attributes
Diomande’s mental strength is remarkable considering his age and recent personal tragedy. Making his senior Ivory Coast debut in November 2025 and scoring in both of his first two international appearances demonstrates confidence and composure under pressure.
His ability to dedicate his first professional goal to his late sister while maintaining emotional control shows maturity beyond his teenage years. This psychological resilience will prove crucial if he moves to the Premier League’s intense environment.
Diomande’s willingness to relocate from the United States to Spain, then Germany within 12 months demonstrates adaptability and ambition unusual for teenagers. Most players his age prefer stability, but Diomande chases opportunities aggressively.
SWOT Analysis
Strengths
Explosive Form: Four goals and three assists in 10 Bundesliga appearances represents exceptional output for an 19-year-old winger in his debut season at a major European league. His recent run of three goals and three assists in consecutive matches suggests genuine quality rather than lucky variance.
International Recognition: Earning senior Ivory Coast caps within months of his Leipzig debut validates his talent beyond just club performances. Scoring in both international appearances demonstrates he produces at multiple competitive levels.
Versatility Across Forward Line: Can operate on both wings and in midfield, providing tactical flexibility managers value. This adaptability allows rotation without dropping quality, crucial for squads competing across multiple competitions.
Youth and Resale Value: At 19, Diomande offers 10-12 years of peak football. Any club signing him secures an asset that appreciates if his development continues, protecting investment even if he doesn’t work out immediately.
Technical Security: His quick feet and calm touch in tight areas allow him to receive possession under pressure and eliminate defenders with close control. This technical foundation suggests he’ll adapt to Premier League physicality.
No Release Clause: Leipzig removed any release clause from his contract, meaning they control negotiations completely. This provides contract security while allowing Leipzig to demand maximum value if selling.
Proven Adaptability: Successfully transitioning from American high school football to Spanish segunda division to Bundesliga within 18 months demonstrates rapid learning curve and mental resilience unusual for teenagers.
Weaknesses
Extremely Limited Sample Size: 10 professional appearances at elite level represents insufficient data to project long-term trajectory. Many players produce excellent short-term numbers before regression toward mean performance levels.
Physical Profile Unknown: Lack of publicly available height, weight, and athletic metrics makes comprehensive scouting difficult. Premier League demands specific physical attributes, and insufficient information exists to project his suitability.
Unproven Against Elite Opposition: Has yet to face Champions League football or genuine top-tier defensive systems. Bundesliga provides competitive environment but differs significantly from Premier League’s intensity and tactical sophistication.
Potential Purple Patch Player: His recent three-goal, three-assist run in consecutive matches could represent variance rather than sustainable performance. History shows many players produce excellent short periods before fading.
Adaptation Risk: Moving from high school football to Bundesliga in under two years seems remarkable, but Premier League represents another significant step up. Players often struggle when making too many transitions quickly without consolidation periods.
Age and Development Uncertainty: At 19, predicting his ceiling remains speculative. Physical and technical development could plateau, or injuries could derail trajectory before reaching predicted potential.
Language Barriers: Has relocated from United States to Spain to Germany within 18 months, potentially speaking limited Spanish and German fluently. Communication challenges could impact tactical understanding and integration.
Opportunities
Gabriel Martinelli’s Injury: Arsenal’s Brazilian winger has been sidelined with a thigh injury since October 26, creating immediate vacancy on the left wing. Diomande’s profile fits this position perfectly.
Gabriel Jesus’ Fitness Issues: Arsenal’s backup striker continues struggling with injury problems. Diomande’s ability to play multiple forward positions provides cover across attacking line.
Noni Madueke’s Knee Injury: The Chelsea transfer suffered knee problems after joining Arsenal last summer, highlighting squad depth concerns. Adding another winger addresses this vulnerability.
January Transfer Window Timing: Arsenal sit top of the Premier League and could use January reinforcement to consolidate position. Diomande’s form makes him available target during crucial period.
Leipzig’s Sales History: The German club has track record of selling young talents to Premier League—Benjamin Sesko, Josko Gvardiol, Dominik Szoboszlai all made similar moves recently. Leipzig understand Premier League valuations.
Reduced Competition in January: Many clubs wait until summer to pursue targets. Acting in January could secure Diomande before bidding war intensifies with Real Madrid, Barcelona, Bayern Munich, and PSG all interested.
Ivory Coast AFCON Participation: If selected for upcoming Africa Cup of Nations, Diomande gains additional platform to showcase abilities. Strong tournament performance would increase Arsenal’s confidence in investment.
Comparable to Erling Haaland Trajectory: Experts suggest Diomande could become Leipzig’s most valuable player since Haaland. If comparisons prove accurate, any price paid now will seem bargain within 18 months.
Threats
€100 Million Valuation: Leipzig reportedly value Diomande at €100 million despite paying just €20 million six months ago. This 500% markup seems unrealistic for player with 10 senior appearances, creating negotiation impasse.
Overwhelming Competition: Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester United, Tottenham, Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, Barcelona, Atletico Madrid, and PSG all monitoring him. Competition from clubs with deeper pockets threatens any deal.
Leipzig’s Development Track Record: RB Leipzig specializes in developing young talents before selling at premium prices. Diomande might benefit more from staying in Germany to consolidate development before Premier League move.
Premier League Adaptation Concerns: Transition from Bundesliga to Premier League has destroyed many promising careers. Physical intensity, tactical sophistication, and pressure differ significantly from German football.
No Guarantee of Playing Time: At Arsenal, Diomande would compete with Saka, Martinelli, Madueke, Eze, and Trossard for minutes. Lack of guaranteed starts could stunt development or create frustration leading to departure demands.
Contract Length Until 2030: Leipzig hold all negotiating leverage with five years remaining. They can demand astronomical fees knowing Diomande cannot force exit through contract pressure.
Potential For Overvaluation: His €100 million reported valuation after 10 appearances represents extreme overvaluation unless he becomes generational talent. Arsenal risk overpaying for potential that never materializes.
Personal Tragedy Impact: Losing his sister shortly before turning professional could have long-term psychological effects not yet apparent. Mental health challenges sometimes emerge months or years after traumatic events.
Verdict for Arsenal
Yan Diomande represents exactly the profile Arsenal typically pursue—young, talented, technically secure, and capable of playing multiple positions. His explosive start at Leipzig validates his potential as future elite winger.
However, the €100 million valuation after just 10 senior appearances represents insane overvaluation that Arsenal should reject immediately. Paying that sum for unproven teenager with such limited sample size would be financial malpractice regardless of talent.
If Leipzig reduce demands to €40-50 million, conversation becomes more reasonable. At that price, Arsenal acquire a prospect with genuine upside while maintaining financial flexibility for other positions.
The timing feels premature. Diomande should consolidate his Bundesliga performances across full season before making another significant move. Jumping from high school to segunda division to Bundesliga to Premier League within three years risks overwhelming development with too many transitions.
Arsenal’s left-wing situation isn’t desperate enough to justify €100 million gamble. Martinelli will return from injury, Eze can cover, and Trossard provides experience. Investing that sum in proven talent like Rafael Leao or Antoine Griezmann makes more strategic sense if addressing immediate title ambitions.
Summer 2026 represents better timing. By then, Diomande will have full Bundesliga season completed, providing larger sample size for evaluation. His valuation might decrease if form regresses, or Arsenal’s conviction strengthens if he maintains production.
Rating: 7/10 transfer prospect for summer 2026, 4/10 for January 2026—exciting talent with genuine potential but premature timing and unrealistic valuation make immediate move illogical.
Read More:
Arsenal
Bukayo Saka Names Former Arsenal Star as Best Player He’s Played With Despite Kane and Rice Options
Bukayo Saka overlooked current Arsenal teammates and England stars to name Mesut Ozil as the best player he’s shared a pitch with during his career. The 24-year-old’s choice surprised many given he’s played alongside Harry Kane, Jude Bellingham, Declan Rice, and Phil Foden at international level.
Speaking to BBC Radio 5 Live, Saka was unequivocal when asked about his best teammate. “Maybe Mesut Ozil. High quality player, man. It was just fun, hard to describe it. Fun to play with him, fun to watch him.”
The endorsement holds particular weight considering Saka played just 17 matches alongside Özil during the 2018-19 and 2019-20 seasons. His Arsenal debut came in December 2018 against Qarabağ FK, where the then-17-year-old earned Player of the Match honors in a match decided by Özil’s assist for the game’s only goal.
Mesut Ozil Was Instrumental in Arsenal’s Multiple FA Cup Success
Özil joined Arsenal from Real Madrid in 2013, accumulating 44 goals and 77 assists across 254 appearances. His 19 Premier League assists during the 2015-16 season remain second only to Thierry Henry in Arsenal history, demonstrating the creative excellence that captivated young Saka.
The German playmaker helped Arsenal secure four FA Cup titles, breaking their nine-year trophy drought. However, his Arsenal career ended controversially after publicly criticizing China’s human rights policies in 2019, leading to marginalization under Mikel Arteta and eventual departure to Fenerbahce in January 2021.
Saka’s choice becomes more intriguing when considering Martin Ødegaard has already surpassed Özil’s Premier League goal total despite playing 3,000 fewer minutes. Yet the England international’s admiration for Özil’s effortless quality clearly left an indelible impression during those brief 17 matches together.
Özil retired from professional football in March 2023 after spells with Fenerbahce and İstanbul Başakşehir. He joined Turkey’s ruling Justice and Development Party’s central council in 2025, pursuing political interests alongside business ventures including esports and Mexican club Necaxa ownership.
Also Read: Gabriel Magalhaes Suffers Injury During International Break: What Do We Know So Far?
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