Carlo Ancelotti admits Real Madrid made a mistake in the summer, when they allowed Mesut Ozil leave the Spanish capital for Arsenal.
The German international initially pitched up at the Bernabeu in 2010, and during three years in Spain, he established himself as one of the most creative players in Europe. It was something of a surprise, then, that Real were prepared to let him leave when the Gunners offered a club record £42.5million for his signature.
Indeed, as much as Los Blancos fans welcomed the world record addition of Gareth Bale from Tottenham Hotspur, they were angered at the sale of Ozil. His departure also caused surprise amongst many of the Real players, who were disappointed to see one of their star performers leave as they try to wrestle the league crown from Barcelona.
Ozil has been in fine form for Arsenal since arriving in England, with five goals and 10 assists to his name in 24 appearances in all competitions. And speaking about the decision of the club to leave him move on during the summer window, Real coach Ancelotti said: “I think we made a mistake when we gave him the possibility to leave the club.”
The arrival of the 25-year-old is considered to have been the catalyst for Arsenal’s season. Having not won a trophy since the 2005 FA Cup and now gone until 2004 since being crowned champions, the Emirates Stadium side are currently top of the Premier League. They are also in the last 16 of the UEFA Champions League and fourth round of the FA Cup, and the introduction of Ozil has seen the likes of Aaron Ramsey and Jack Wilshere improve as they up their game and take inspiration from the brilliant German.
