Mesut Ozil will not look for a way out of Arsenal this month despite his omission from the starting line-up in recent weeks, according to his representatives.
The midfielder has been linked with a move away from the Emirates amid rumors of a fractious relationship with boss Unai Emery, who is still concerned by his work-rate levels.
Ozil, 30, is currently nursing a knee injury which has kept him out of Arsenal’s last two matches, though it is unclear whether or not he would slot straight back into the starting XI when he returns to full fitness.
Despite Emery insisting recently that Ozil is still a huge part of the side and his plans, there is still speculation over his long-term future at the club with Real Madrid and Inter Milan being touted as possible landing spots.
However, his agent Dr Erkut Sogut has reassured that Ozil is committed to the club and will not seek an exit route this transfer window or indeed in the future.
‘I would prefer not to speak publicly about Mesut’s situation, but given the recent speculation linking him with a move away from Arsenal, I do feel it is important to provide some clarity so we can end this and focus on football,’ he told Goal.
‘Mesut signed a new contract last January because he saw his future at Arsenal and nothing has changed in his mind. He wants to stay for the duration of that contract and maybe even longer.
‘Mesut is 100 per cent committed to Arsenal Football Club. He loves the club, shares its values and does not want to be anywhere else.
‘He is proud to wear the shirt and honoured to represent Arsenal on and off the pitch. He takes his responsibilities – including being selected as one of the captains this season – very seriously and has a great relationship with his team-mates, the staff and fans.’
There are however, still question marks over whether Ozil can fit into Emery’s new tactical system at the Emirates.
The Spaniard cited ‘tactical reasons’ when he dropped him for their defeat at Southampton last month, but Sogut has insisted Ozil will continue to fight and prove his worth to the Arsenal boss.
He added: ‘In the last year, there has been enormous upheaval for everybody at the club and the first half of this season has not been perfect for Mesut.
‘He has suffered from injuries and illness, and is working hard to adapt to the different system employed by head coach Unai Emery. This may take time, but Mesut will give everything he has to help make it work and bring success to Arsenal.’
