Former Arsenal star Mesut Ozil has sent a classy message of support to Bukayo Saka after his penalty miss in England’s Euro 2020 final defeat against Italy.
The Three Lions came agonisingly close to lifting the trophy after their match with Italy finished 1-1 after extra time, but Saka’s effort in the shoot-out was saved by Gianluigi Donnarumma.
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The Gunners youngster has been a key player for club and country in recent times, and Ozil feels he deserves respect for stepping up to take such an important penalty at this big moment in a huge game.
Ozil is still loved by a lot of Arsenal fans after his fine career at the Emirates Stadium, and he’s shown he’s a good character with his quotes about Saka.
The former Germany international also hit out at the racist messages that Saka has received in the wake of his crucial spot-kick miss, with Jadon Sancho and Marcus Rashford also on the receiving end of this vile abuse.
“I felt very much for Bukayo, I know from my own experience how it feels to miss a penalty,” Ozil told Sky Sports.
“In a final, as the last one, to take on the responsibility of an entire nation as a young player – respect. Not many players would dare to do that.
“There will always be people who racially abuse and scapegoat people of different backgrounds and skin colour when they lose.
“Unfortunately, there will always be a small part of our community that racially insults and threatens players.
“We should focus much more on the positive messages that keep players strong.”
yes ozil your are very intellegent we are still loving you ever for ever
Ozil you are a good and loving brother
Ozil has a good heart and I would take him over this slime any day of the week. these people really hate themselves from inside their weak souls
To insult Can be more harmful than any punch, for your own fellowship to do so even more so. It should be laws to punish such crimes as much it can affect.
We are talking about 19 years old kids! These low lives are allowed in stadiums when they deserve jail for such shocking hatefull crimes infront of the World, millions of kids watching in stock, hurt as WE all been…
Players will continue to bé victim, they know it, have no choice to cope with it;
This is systemic racism, change must be there, in our system; federation and clubs.
Look at Arsenal, Saka’s club, known for diversity, but not a black person in board or anywhere around.
Shouldn’t Ian Wright be in this board for years?
Not only he knows football but loves this club & its values. Beside being such a Legend, he happens to be a wise and positive guy…
If on board, we certainly wouldn’t be as lost today!
You guys have great topic and freedom, allowing everyone to express their views from their own perspective & experience.
It makes this article even more so credible and highlights your values.
Thanks to you for everyone victim of discrimination, shocked by it and that systemic racism nurishing this ignorance.