Has Mesut Ozil had a poor season for Arsenal?

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Mesut Ozil is a player who divides opinions, and although there is no doubt the player possesses fine technical and playmaking abilities, there are questions over whether the German man delivers consistently. Last season, his skills were on display for all to see as he, along with Alexis Sánchez, guided Arsenal to second place in the Premier League.

In 35 Premier League appearances for Arsenal last season, the German playmaker notched an extremely impressive 19 assists, just one short of Theirry Henry’s record of 20 set in the 2002/03 season.

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However, what is most astonishing his assists record is that 16 of them came before the turn of the year, as his productivity dropped off quite considerably between January and May. His form between the months of August and December was superb, as the German picked passes out, played clever through balls and orchestrated Arsenal’s attack. Ozil picked up many assists and pushed the Gunners’ up the table.

However, this same efficiency, in regards to getting assists for his teammates has not been as evident this season. In 22 Premier League appearances, Ozil has just four assists. This is nowhere near good enough for a player of his quality and, with the players he has around him, he should have created considerably more.

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As shown last season, the playmaker has a habit of dropping off towards the second half of the season, something that is also quite commonly associated with Arsenal. Arsene Wenger’s side often have a mid-season capitulation where they suddenly find themselves out of the title race and battling for top four once again.

This perhaps highlights Ozil’s importance to Arsenal more than anything else; when he is playing well, the entire team plays well. Although, they are fortunate to have another world-class match-winner in Alexis Sánchez, also, who has been phenomenal this year. The Chilean has had to impress due to his German team-mate’s struggles this season.

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Although Mesut Özil may not like it, the Chilean forward is the driving force in this Arsenal’s side. Sánchez significantly betters the German in assists (8) and goals (17) so far this season.

He possesses a hunger and energy that the German playmaker is seemingly lacking. If Mesut Özil displayed the same drive, determination, and desire as Sanchez, it is scary to think how good he might just be.

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