The Mesut Ozil era at Arsenal is almost certainly up. As we all know, he is possibly the most criticised footballer in England.
It has not been plain sailing for the German at the best of times at the Emirates, but his decreasing Gunners stock took a fatal blow after his performance in this year’s Europa League final. Ozil was a pure spectator throughout, and his slow exit from the pitch did nothing but infuriate the club’s supporters even further. Unai Emery and co may, therefore, look at replacing him this summer and, with James Rodriguez available following Bayern Munich’s decision not to sign him on a permanent basis after his two-year loan spell in Munich, the perfect alternative may just have become available.
When Rodriguez burst onto the scene at the 2014 World Cup, many predicted the Colombian to go right to the top. Unfortunately, he hasn’t gone quite as far as people thought, hence he has been labelled something of a flop during his time at both Madrid and Bayern. However, that is unfair on a player who has undoubtedly contributed to both of those sides’ triumphs over the last half a decade. In 111 games for Real, he scored 36 goals and provided 40 assists, which is good going for a player who was not always a guaranteed starter, often coming off the bench. It has been much the same story at Bayern, with James contributing 15 goals and 20 assists in 65 games despite both Jupp Heynckes and Niko Kovac preferring to play with a system that does not include a natural attacking midfielder. Without a place for him in his best position, it has been harder for Rodriguez to prove his true worth.
At his best, though, he is a magnificent footballer, and a joy to watch. His vision is a joy to behold, and his left foot is dangerous when in and around the box. Similar to Ozil, you might say. The difference between the two is that the former Schalke midfielder seems to have totally lost his mojo and is meandering his way to the end of his career. Rodriguez, meanwhile, still has a point to prove after failed spells in the eyes of the general public. Right now, Rodriguez is an upgrade on Ozil and would be able to take his place immediately in the starting line-up.
Also, Rodriguez is a winner. He has won seven league titles during his career so far, despite being just 27 years old, and also lifted the Champions League twice in Madrid. This is a player who knows how to win… exactly the type of character Arsenal have been missing in recent times. They lack winners all over the field: Rodriguez could be that player to add fresh impetus and hunger to the team.
With Real desperate to sell, Rodriguez would also come cheap. The amount of Bayern’s transfer option was reportedly €42 million. With Arsenal’s transfer budget only £45m, this is an opportunity for the Gunners to bring in a world-class talent for a fee that would not break the bank. And any sale of Ozil would also cover the cost of Rodriguez’s arrival anyway.
Replacing the 30-year-old World Cup winner with James would be a win-win for all parties. Arsenal would be able to move on from the toxic situation they are currently in and would give the London outfit the boost they need to once again be competitive in the Premier League, Ozil would be able to end his nightmare, and Rodriguez would get himself a new start. It really is a no-brainer.
