Arsenal outcast Mesut Ozil has been left out of Mikel Arteta's Premier League squad and is hurt by his latest snub, so he has decisions to make on his future going forward this season.
So what could be next for the German playmaker, whom Arsenal appear unwilling to give another chance? Where might Ozil find an escape route?
Subsidized loan deal
Ozil’s pay packet of £350,000-a-week means it’s unlikely the north London club will be able to find a club to take on their highest-paid player’s full salary, but a loan exit could be a short-term solution.
Inter has recently become an outpost for former Premier League stars and flops. Might Antonio Conte also be interested in this faded figure?
Move to MLS
Very few European superstars are not linked with a move to MLS as they get older. Ozil is no different, with the 32-year-old most recently linked with DC United.
But while the footballing quality of MLS is a lot lower than it is in the Premier League, would Ozil be up for the challenge?
Move to Turkey
Ozil boasts strong ties to Turkey through his mother and has previously hinted at a potential move to the country.
It’s not so long ago that Fenerbahce agreed to pay Robin van Persie €4.9 million-a-year and while Ozil would likely command an even higher salary, it offers the playmaker hope that an escape route could be found here.
See out his contract
Ozil’s best option might be to sit tight and see out his contract until the summer of 2021, when he will be a free agent and will have the freedom to join whichever club shows an interest in him.
SEE ALSO | Solskjaer Reveals His Fears Of Facing Five Big Games After PSG Win
Of course Ozil might feel this is a waste of precious time, with the playmaker entering the twilight of his career, but with few clubs willing to take on his wages this might just be the best scenario for the player, but the most likely one too.
Dailystar
This article was most recently revised and updated 4 years ago
