Arsenal were previously interested in a deal for former Bayern Munich star Leroy Sane, only for him to seal a shock move to Turkish giants Galatasaray – and now Mesut Ozil has now spoken out on the switch
Mesut Ozil insists he did not have a role to play in Leroy Sane rejecting Arsenal in favour of Galatasaray. The Gunners were thought to be interested in a move for former Bayern Munich star Sane earlier this summer.
He was out of contract with the German giants at the end of this month. But he surprisingly chose to pursue an exit, having penned a lucrative deal with Turkish giants Galatasaray.
Reports have suggested that former Arsenal star Ozil was pivotal to the move having convinced him to move to Istanbul, a claim that he denies. Speaking to local Turkish media outlets, Ozil said: “Big names are coming to Turkey. They are playing football here.
“Hopefully, our big clubs will also be successful in Europe. I am very happy that Sane has come to Turkey. He is someone who, like me, has come from the Schalke youth academy.”
When asked about the claims he had a role to play in Sane’s decision, Ozil confirmed the pair did talk – but not specifically about Galatasaray. He added: “We talked before I came to Turkey, but it’s not like I directed him to Galatasaray as written in the media…
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“He asked about life in Turkey and Istanbul, we talked about these things. I said it was a very beautiful city and a safe city. I said we have incredible food. I said we would be very happy if you came, and he came. We wish him success, too.”
Sane, 29, has already spoken out on his surprise switch to Turkey. Before agreeing terms with Galatasaray, it looked as though he would commit his future to Bayern only to u-turn.
Explaining why he made that call, he said: “The decision wasn’t easy for me. My time here wasn’t always easy, but there were also many highlights. I felt at home here, I enjoyed last season a lot, and I’ve been able to make many friends within the team over the years.”
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He added: “Even if the media portrayed it that way, there was never a 100 percent agreement. Unfortunately, in my opinion, that put unnecessary pressure on all parties involved. But it is what it is now – I’m not angry with anyone.”
Sane is expected to earn a huge wage during his time in Turkey having reportedly put pen to paper on a three-year deal worth over £10m per season. Bayern Munich confirmed after his move was announced that Sane would still be in action for them at the Club World Cup until his contract expired on June 30.
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