Mesut Ozil makes Fenerbahce debut in first competitive game since 2020

- Ozil began a new chapter in his career as he made his Fenerbahce debut

- The 32-year old played for 18 minutes as a substitute in his side’s 2-1 win over Hatayspor

- Fenerbahce are now four points clear at the top of the Turkish Super Lig heading into the derby against Galatasaray

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Former Arsenal man Mesut Ozil got off to a winning start with his new side Fenerbahce has he made his first competitive appearance in football since March 2020.

Ozil left Arsenal in the January transfer window to bring an end to a tumultuous last few months with the Gunners which saw him completely frozen out of the squad.

Prior to his Fenerbahce debut, Ozil’s last professional appearance was 332 days ago when he was an Arsenal player as he played against West Ham in the Premier League on March 7.

Because of his lengthy absence, the Fernerbahce boss decided to play it safe with the midfield maestro by offering him only 18 minutes of play time on his debut.

Ozil was subbed on in the 72nd minute against Turkish Super Lig side Hatayspor, replacing fellow attacker Mame Thiam who scored Fenerbahce’s opener.

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When he came on, the game was finely poised at 1-1 but Fenerbahce eventually got the winner in the 88th minute, courtesy of a Jean-Claude Billong own goal.

Notably, Ozil was heavily involved in the build up to the winner as he provided a ‘pre-assist’ with a pass to Ferdi Kadioglou who then crossed it into the box for Billong to turn it into his own net.

The win took Fenerbahce four points clear at the top of the standings, ahead of Besiktas, who sit second with 44 points.

Ozil will likely play an integral role in his side’s next match as Fenerbahce prepare for a mammoth derby against bitter rivals Galatasaray, who are third in the league.

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