Arsenal outcast Mesut Ozil included in socially distanced 2020-21 team photo

Arsenal midfielder Mesut Ozil has endured a tumultuous time at Emirates over past couple of seasons, having fallen down pecking order under current manr Mikel Arteta. former Real Madrid superstar has become synymous with controversies as he sees off final year of his contract. Despite being dropped from squads for Premier League as well as Europa League, German maestro was included in Arsenal team photo, much to surprise of club's fans.

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Mesut Ozil included in Arsenal's team photo 

Arsenal published team photos on its social media ps, a shoot which was characterised by new rmal - social distancing. players are seen standing at a distance from each or in a triangular position, with Arteta at tip of shape. manr has FA Cup and Community Shield, two titles Gunners won last season, placed in front of him. 

Interestingly, Ozil was included in Arsenal team photo despite being at loggerheads with club. midfielder, who hasn't played an official game with Arsenal since March 7, is seen standing back right in snap, donning number 10 shirt. His inclusion in photo session surprised many, largely due to his unrepairable relationship with Emirates hierarchy. 

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Mesut Ozil contract ends in June 2021 

Ozil has struggled under both Unai Emery and Arteta. 32-year-old has been quite vocal against atrocities inflicted on Uighur community in China, which is touted by some as main reason for club sidelining him. Following his comments, club separated mselves from his views. 

Ozil, who is currently highest-paid player at club, pockets £350,000 a week. Arsenal reportedly wanted to get rid of him last summer but were forced to keep him after finding suitors for his hefty paycheck. neless, his contract expires at end of current season and he will be a free nt in June next year. 

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Mesut Ozil transfer attempt to Al-Nassr fails 

Last month, Ozil had opportunity to leave Gunners, with Saudi Arabian side Al-Nassr keen on signing him, as per Fabrizio Roma's Here We Go podcast. A £5 million bid was officially submitted, but amount was t sufficient to convince German to leave Emirates. 

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Im courtesy: Arsenal Twitter