Mesut Ozil’s attitude and inconsistency has been questioned by Arsenal legend Emmanuel Petit, with the German accused of playing “when he wants to”.
As a World Cup winner, there is no doubting the 29-year-old’s ability.
He remains a key figure at Emirates Stadium, with Arsenal often looking to a man acquired from Real Madrid for £42.5 million for inspiration.
Petit has, however, suggested that Ozil – who penned a new contract in January which is set to keep him in north London until 2021 - only delivers when the mood takes him.
Quizzed during an ‘Ask Me Anything’ session on Reddit as to who his favourite current Arsenal player is, the former France international said: “In the current Arsenal team... I have no idea... Ozil when he actually wants to be a player.”
Prior to penning fresh terms at the turn of the year, Ozil was heavily linked with a move elsewhere.
Manchester United were one of the sides said to be keen on acquiring him, and Petit has revealed that he passed up the opportunity to make a switch to Old Trafford during his own playing days.
He said: “Yes, I could have played for Manchester United.
“I really regret not doing that now, I could've played with [Ryan] Giggs, [Paul] Scholes etc. Some amazing players.”
Petit is now restricted to a spectator role, having hung up his boots in 2004, and continues to keep a close eye on events in the Premier League.
He has seen Manchester City sweep to title glory this season but is not yet convinced that Pep Guardiola’s side deserve a standing among the all-time greats.
“I’d probably say, of those I've seen regularly, the Man United 1999 treble season or Arsenal Invincibles [are the best],” added Petit, who won a league and FA Cup double with the Gunners in 1997-98.
“But I really enjoy watching City now.”
Petit also admitted to having “a crush” on Liverpool’s class of 2017-18, with Jurgen Klopp having guided an exciting side led by the sensational Mohamed Salah to within touching distance of the Champions League final.