Mesut treated ‘disgracefully’

KICK IT OUT have reacted to Mesut Ozil’s decision to quit the German national team on the back of alleged racist comments and discrimination, saying he “has been treated disgracefully”. Ozil released a statement on Sunday saying he would no longer represent Germany following the abuse he received after having his picture taken with Turkey president Recep Tayyip Erdogan and the subsequent embarrassment at being knocked out of the World Cup at the group stages. In a lengthy statement, Kick It Out condemned the treatment of Ozil and said it was part of a wider problem, similar to those involving black players in England and France. They said: “Following Germany’s exit from the World Cup, the racist treatment Mesut Ozil has faced by elements of their media, supporters and wider society is extremely disappointing – but is also reflective of the experience of a number of footballers across Europe from mixed heritage backgrounds. “Immigration has transformed modern life and modern football for the better – the success of Premier League is due to the contribution of footballers from around the world, while the World Cup has been enriched by players of dual heritage such as Ozil.

“However, Ozil is right to suggest that for elements of society, ‘when we win I am German, but I am an immigrant when we lose.’

Unfortunately, black players in England, France and beyond have been treated in a similar fashion for a long time.

“We understand that football is a results business and inevitably there will be criticism of players when a leading nation such as Germany is knocked out of a tournament at an early stage.”

DFB President Richard Grindel, has gone far beyond any reasonable analysis of his performances.

“Footballers must always be wary of their status as role models being exploited for political propaganda, but no player should ever have their loyalty to their country questioned because of a dual heritage. The mere fact that Ozil decided to represent Germany should be enough to demonstrate his commitment, but clearly in some circles that is not enough

“Mesut Ozil has been treated disgracefully and we have contacted Arsenal to offer our support to him at this time.

“Those who have driven him to consider international retirement should be ashamed of themselves and his case should encourage all of football to reflect on how the game treats footballers from mixed heritage backgrounds.” – The Independent