Mesut Ozil 2019/20 – What makes him so important within Arteta’s Arsenal system – scout report

Mesut Özil is one of the most controversial players at Arsenal. While Özil was a key player of the Arsenal side under the reigns of Arsène Wenger, the midfielder did not play an important role under following manager Unai Emery. When Mikel Arteta took over in December (2019), however, Özil utilised his opportunity and currently thrives in the new system.

Our tactical analysis takes a closer look at Özil’s role within Arteta’s system and why he is of such big importance for this Arsenal side again. In the form of a scout report, we examine Özils strengths and how they contribute to the revitalisation of Arsenal.

Özil’s role within Arteta’s system

Since Mikel Arteta took over Arsenal, they mainly played in a 4-2-3-1 formation. In this system, Arteta lined up Özil as the playmaker behind the single attacker. In front of a double pivot at the base of the midfield, Özil is tasked to provide offensive passing options or carry the ball upfield. Below, the 4-2-3-1 formation of Arsenal in their win over Manchester United is displayed. To complement Özil, a strong hold-up striker in Alexandre Lacazette is lined up front between two pacy wingers in Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Nicolas Pépé.

Playing as a central advanced midfielder, Özil likes to drift towards either side of the pitch. Nevertheless, he seems to prefer the right side. The preference can be seen when taking a look at his heatmap which is displayed below. Besides this, the heatmap also shows that the playmaker is mainly positioned around the opposition box to provide the attacking trio with passes or crosses.

The reason why Özil prefers the right side is simple. From the right, he is able to utilise his stronger left foot in order to progress the ball diagonally up the pitch. Mainly attacking down this side allows him to carry the ball into central areas with his left foot while already being prepared to play a through pass towards one of Arsenal’s fast attackers.

Different to his inside movements when receiving the ball on the right, Özil prefers to stay wider on the left side of the pitch. From this area, Özil can combine with the left winger and full-back to get a player into a position to cross. On this side of the pitch, Özil himself can  send in a cross with his left foot.