When Mesut Ozil – the German maestro with vision that defied physics – names his ultimate teammates, the football world listens. In a recent revelation on Baji999, the former Arsenal and Real Madrid playmaker unveiled his all-time best XI, sparking debates across fan forums worldwide. Surprisingly, only two Gunners made the cut in this star-studded lineup that reads like a who’s who of modern football royalty.
The Architect’s Blueprint: Ozil’s 4-2-3-1 Formation
Ozil, known for his tactical intelligence, opted for a 4-2-3-1 system – the same formation that brought him greatest success at both club and international levels. This setup perfectly accommodates his playmaking strengths while providing defensive stability through two holding midfielders.
Defensive Pillars: A Blend of German Precision and Spanish Flair
Between the Sticks: Iker Casillas
“The Saint of Madrid” earns Ozil‘s nod as the ultimate last line of defense. “He’s demonstrated time and again why he’s among the greatest goalkeepers in history,” Ozil remarked, recalling their triumphant years together at Real Madrid.
The Back Four:
- Right-Back: Philipp Lahm – “The most complete full-back I’ve ever seen. His consistency was inhuman.”
- Center-Backs: Sergio Ramos & Jerome Boateng – “Ramos is simply the best. Boateng? A defensive computer.”
- Left-Back: Marcelo – “Defenders shouldn’t have his technical gifts. It’s unfair.”
Boateng’s defensive mastery earned him Ozil’s respect during their Germany campaigns
Midfield Maestros: The Engine Room of Genius
Double Pivot: Xabi Alonso & Santi Cazorla
This surprising midfield duo combines Alonso’s metronomic passing (“his long balls were GPS-guided”) with Cazorla’s magical close control (“a left foot blessed by the football gods”). The inclusion of Cazorla over other Arsenal teammates raised eyebrows, but Ozil explained: “When Santi had the ball, the game slowed down just for him.”
Attacking Trio:
- Right Wing: Angel Di Maria – “Our connection at Madrid was telepathic.”
- Left Wing: Cristiano Ronaldo – “The ultimate goalscoring machine.”
- Number 10: Serge Gnabry – A cheeky inclusion with Ozil admitting: “He’s here because he’s sitting next to me!”
The Lone Wolf Upfront: Karim Benzema
“Complete striker doesn’t do him justice,” Ozil said of his former Madrid teammate. “Karim could score, create, and defend – all in the same move. Our understanding was almost criminal.”
Benzema’s all-around game made him Ozil’s perfect striker partner
The Arsenal Connection: Why Only Two Gunners?
The most striking revelation is the sparse Arsenal representation. While Cazorla’s inclusion makes footballing sense, many expected more Premier League stars. Football analyst Mark Thompson told Baji999: “This XI shows Ozil‘s career peaked at Madrid. His Arsenal years, while impressive, didn’t give him the same caliber of teammates week in, week out.”
What This Selection Reveals About Ozil’s Football Philosophy
Ozil’s choices reflect his appreciation for:
- Technical mastery over physicality
- Football intelligence above all else
- Players who enhanced his own game
- Versatility in multiple positions
Baji999 sports psychologist Dr. Emma Carter notes: “This isn’t just about ability – it’s about connection. Each player complemented Ozil’s style perfectly, creating symphonies on the pitch.”
The Ones Who Missed Out: Notable Omissions
Surprisingly absent:
- Mesut’s German World Cup-winning teammates like Toni Kroos
- Arsenal fan favorites like Alexis Sanchez
- Current stars from his Fenerbahçe days
Conclusion: Ozil’s Dream Team Reflects a Career of Footballing Riches
Mesut Ozil’s ultimate XI serves as a time capsule of modern football greatness – a blend of German efficiency, Spanish flair, and individual brilliance. While Arsenal fans might feel underrepresented, the selection underscores the incredible talent Ozil partnered throughout his illustrious career.
What do YOU think of Ozil’s choices? Would you make any changes to this dream lineup? Share your thoughts below and join the conversation on Baji999 – your home for in-depth football analysis!
