Mesut Özil, celebrated for his grace and playmaking brilliance, has had the privilege of sharing the pitch with some of football’s elite. During his stints at Real Madrid and Arsenal, he partnered with the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo, Aaron Ramsey, and Alexis Sánchez—players who’ve made lasting impressions on the sport.
In a rare moment of reflection, however, Özil revealed a special admiration for a Premier League star he never had the opportunity to play alongside. He candidly admitted, “I have played alongside Ramsey and Sánchez before, but I must confess that none have the qualities that this guy possesses. If I’m to come back in my next life as a footballer, I would have loved him to be my teammate.”
Though he didn’t name the player in this quote, the depth of Özil’s respect is unmistakable. Such sentiments highlight how top players often recognize greatness in their peers, even without sharing a team.
Throughout his career, Özil has openly discussed the players he idolizes. In a Twitter Q\&A, he listed legends like Zinedine Zidane, Dennis Bergkamp, and Robert Pires as his dream teammates. He also expressed a desire to once again play alongside Cristiano Ronaldo, underscoring the strong connection they forged at Real Madrid.
These insights reveal the attributes Özil most values in fellow players: creativity, intelligence, and the power to shape games. His reflections are a window into the mind of a footballer who deeply understands and appreciates the artistry of the sport.
In a game that constantly evolves, such mutual admiration among players not only enriches its narrative but also unites the football world through shared respect and passion.
