Mesut Özil, widely recognized as one of the most creative midfielders of his generation, has left an indelible mark on the world of football. Known for his visionary passing, deft touches, and impeccable game intelligence, Özil has enjoyed a stellar career at both club and international levels. Hailing from Germany with Turkish roots, he has become a global icon, celebrated not only for his footballing prowess but also for his philanthropy and advocacy.
This article provides an in-depth look at Mesut Özil’s life, including his age, family, net worth, height, and much more.
Early Life and Background
Mesut Özil was born on October 15, 1988, in Gelsenkirchen, Germany, making him 36 years old as of 2024. He grew up in a working-class family of Turkish descent. His parents, Mustafa Özil and Gülsüm Özil, had migrated from Zonguldak, Turkey, to Germany in search of a better future.
Mesut was the youngest of four siblings and displayed a keen interest in football from an early age. Growing up in a multicultural neighborhood, he honed his skills by playing in local parks and streets. His dedication to the sport was evident, and he joined his first youth team, Westfalia 04 Gelsenkirchen, when he was just six years old.
Football Journey
Youth Career
Mesut Özil’s talent was apparent from a young age. After stints with several local clubs, he joined the Schalke 04 academy in 2005. His technical skills and vision on the field quickly caught the attention of coaches and scouts.
Club Career
Schalke 04 (2006–2008)
Özil made his Bundesliga debut with Schalke 04 at just 17 years old. Despite limited playing time, he showcased his potential, earning praise for his composure and passing ability.
Werder Bremen (2008–2010)
In 2008, Özil moved to Werder Bremen, where he truly began to shine. His creative midfield play was instrumental in Bremen’s success, including their DFB-Pokal triumph in 2009.
Real Madrid (2010–2013)
Özil’s performances at the 2010 FIFA World Cup caught the attention of Spanish giants Real Madrid, who signed him for €15 million. At Madrid, Özil became the heartbeat of the team’s attack, forming a formidable partnership with Cristiano Ronaldo. During his tenure, he won La Liga (2011–12), the Copa del Rey (2010–11), and the Supercopa de España (2012).
Arsenal (2013–2021)
In 2013, Özil joined Arsenal for a then-club-record fee of £42.5 million. His arrival brought a new level of creativity to the Gunners. Özil played a key role in ending Arsenal’s trophy drought by helping the team win four FA Cups. His partnership with players like Alexis Sánchez and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang brought memorable moments to the Emirates Stadium.
Fenerbahçe (2021–2022) and Başakşehir (2022–2023)
In the latter part of his career, Özil returned to Turkey, fulfilling a lifelong dream to play in his ancestral homeland.
International Career
Özil represented Germany at the international level, earning 92 caps and scoring 23 goals. His standout performance came during the 2014 FIFA World Cup, where Germany emerged as champions. Despite his success, his retirement from international football in 2018 was surrounded by controversy due to issues of racism and his Turkish heritage.
Personal Life
Family
Mesut Özil comes from a close-knit family. His father, Mustafa, was instrumental in supporting Özil’s footballing dreams, while his mother, Gülsüm, instilled values of humility and generosity in him.
In 2019, Özil married Amine Gülşe, a former Miss Turkey and actress. The couple welcomed their daughter, Eda Özil, in 2020. Özil often shares moments from his personal life on social media, showcasing his love for his family.
Physical Attributes
Mesut Özil stands tall at 5 feet 11 inches (180 cm) and weighs approximately 76 kg (167 lbs). His lean physique, combined with his agility and endurance, made him an ideal playmaker on the field. Özil’s signature look, including his expressive eyes, has also made him a style icon.
Net Worth and Earnings
As of 2024, Mesut Özil’s estimated net worth is $120 million. His wealth stems from:
Football Contracts: Özil’s lucrative contracts with clubs like Real Madrid, Arsenal, and Fenerbahçe contributed significantly to his earnings.
Endorsements: Özil has endorsed major brands, including Adidas, Mercedes-Benz, and Beats by Dre.
Business Ventures: Özil owns a successful esports team, M10 Esports, and has invested in several businesses, including a coffee brand and a clothing line.
Lifestyle and Philanthropy
Despite his wealth, Özil is known for his humility and generosity. He has contributed to various charitable causes, such as:
Funding surgeries for over 1,000 children during the 2014 World Cup.
Donating meals to Syrian refugees and underprivileged families worldwide.
Supporting education and sports initiatives through his M10 Foundation.
Legacy and Playing Style
Mesut Özil is celebrated for his unique playing style, characterized by:
Vision and Creativity: Özil’s ability to read the game and execute precise passes made him one of the best playmakers of his era.
Assists King: He holds numerous records for assists, including leading the charts in La Liga, the Premier League, and the Champions League during his career.
Work Ethic: While often criticized for his perceived lack of defensive work, Özil’s offensive contributions overshadowed such claims.
Fun Facts
Nicknames: Özil is affectionately called “The Assist King” and “Der Rabe” (The Raven) due to his sharp vision.
Languages: Özil speaks German, Turkish, English, and Spanish fluently.
Passion for Esports: Özil is an avid gamer and runs his own esports organization, M10 Esports.
Awards and Accolades
Over his illustrious career, Özil has won numerous individual and team awards, including:
FIFA World Cup Winner (2014)
German Footballer of the Year (2011, 2012, 2013, 2015, 2016)
UEFA Team of the Year (2012)
Conclusion
Mesut Özil’s journey from the streets of Gelsenkirchen to the world’s biggest footballing stages is a story of talent, perseverance, and determination. Beyond football, Özil’s philanthropy and cultural advocacy have solidified his place as a role model for millions.
As he transitions into the next phase of his life, whether through business, esports, or mentorship, Özil remains a symbol of excellence and integrity both on and off the field.