Özil's resignation sparks recriminations across German politics
Turkish-German footballer’s resignation from national team leads to arguments over integration and racism
by Philip Oltermann in Berlin
Jul 23, 2018
4 minutes
Angela Merkel has insisted that Germany is “a cosmopolitan country” and praised Mesut Özil’s achievements for the national side, after the Arsenal midfielder’s resignation from the German national team over alleged racism and lack of respect kicked football deep into the country’s political arena.
“Özil is a great footballer who has done a lot for the national football team,” a spokesperson for the German chancellor said on Monday, adding that the Gelsenkirchen-born player’s decision to resign “has to be respected”.
The World Cup winner’s combative resignation statement on Sunday led some politicians to decry him as an example of
You’re reading a preview, subscribe to read more.
Start your free 30 days