Photo credit: GETTY IMAGES
The former Arsenal midfielder left bid in 2021, concluding an eight-year stint with the club. He watched Arsenal’s 1-0 victory over Chelsea from the stands on Sunday afternoon.
Former Arsenal midfield maestro Mesut Özil made a nostalgic Stadium visit on Sunday, March 16, 2025. The 36-year-old, who spent eight illustrious years with the Gunners, watched from the stands as Arsenal secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Chelsea in a tense Premier League clash.
Özil, who left Arsenal in 2021 after a celebrated tenure that included four FA Cup triumphs, has remained a beloved figure among the club’s faithful. His presence at the Emirates was a poignant reminder of his contributions to the team, and fans were thrilled to see him back at the ground where he once dazzled with his playmaking brilliance.
The match itself was a tightly contested affair, with Arsenal’s Mikel Merino scoring the decisive goal in the 20th minute. The Spanish midfielder expertly headed in a corner delivered by Martin Ødegaard, showcasing the Gunners’ set-piece prowess. Despite Chelsea’s attempts to equalize, Arsenal’s defense held firm, ensuring a vital win that ended their three-match winless streak in the league.
Özil, who retired from professional football in 2023, has since embarked on a new chapter in his life, including a surprising foray into Turkish politics. However, his love for Arsenal remains undiminished, as evidenced by his enthusiastic social media post during the match, captioned with the iconic “Ya Gunners Ya.”
The victory not only delighted Özil but also bolstered Arsenal’s position in the Premier League standings, narrowing the gap to league leaders Liverpool. For Chelsea, the loss marked another setback in their quest for Champions League qualification.
As Arsenal fans celebrated the win, Özil’s return added an extra layer of nostalgia and joy to the occasion. His enduring connection to the club and its supporters is a testament to the lasting impact he made during his time in North London.
The Gunners will now look to build on this momentum as they prepare for their upcoming fixtures, with hopes of finishing the season on a high note. For Özil, the visit to the Emirates was a chance to relive cherished memories and witness firsthand the continued passion and resilience of the club he once called home.
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