Time is running out and Arsenal are still a long way behind Leicester City in the Premier League, but Mesut Özil hasn’t given up hope.
Speaking to Welt am Sonntag (h/t @AFCPressWatch) in his homeland while on international duty, the midfielder insisted Arsenal have everything to win the league this season and could yet make up the 11-point gap to the Foxes.
“We have the players to win the title,” Özil said. “Our squad is strong. We can beat anyone, we just have to believe in ourselves.”
Arsenal have beaten Leicester twice this season and drew both games against second-placed Tottenham Hotspur. Another three points came against Manchester City. It’s pretty clear the Gunners can beat anyone and, with the games running out, it’s now imperative that they do.
Leicester have played one game more than Arsenal but would still have an eight-point advantage with just seven games remaining even if Arsenal win their game in hand.
“Although there are only a few games left, Leicester have a run against some of the big teams to come,” added the 27-year-old.
“We ourselves must in any case not allow any more slip-ups. The hope of the title is still there.”
If it wasn’t for Özil, the race would already be over as far as Arsenal are concerned. With eight games to go, the final run is in sight and the German just has to keep delivering to keep the side in the hunt.
After playing 90 minutes against England on Saturday, let’s hope the playmaker gets a rest when Germany face Italy on Tuesday evening.