Are you sure? Oezil can compete for Ballon d'Or, says Reus
After blowing hot and cold for Arsenal all season, it's safe to say that Mesut Oezil, 25, has not really lived up to his promise following his big money move from Real Madrid.
But that hasn't stopped his German team-mate Marco Reus from saying that he can be a candidate for the Ballon d'Or no less.
Speaking to Sport Bild, the Borussia Dortmund attacking midfielder said: "For Ozil's part, he certainly has the class to compete with (Cristiano) Ronaldo"
Not everyone shares Reus' sentiments on Oezil, though.
Lost
Michael Ballack, the former German captain and midfield mainstay, feels that Oezil has lost his way since moving to the Gunners.
The former Bayern Munich and Chelsea star told The Daily Mail: "I saw him play for the national team at the weekend and I was not surprised, not scared, but a little bit concerned, by his performances.
"Since his move to Arsenal, he has not been the same player, in terms of his confidence, that we used to see in the national team.
"He is no longer a young talent or a promising player. When he was criticised for his performances, he looked surprised, he looked lost."
Ballack said as one of Germany's best players, Oezil has to take more responsibility, and that more is expected from him at the moment.
Sources: ESPN FC, Sky Sports
Get The New Paper on your phone with the free TNP app. Download from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store now
