Who knows whether or not Mesut Ozil snubbed ex-Gunner Samir Nasri on purpose. That was the moment which played into the narrative of the Premier League as the soap opera from Arsenal’s Tunnel Cam on Monday night. The German was captured on camera giving very little time for Samir Nasri when the pair passed by each other on Monday night at The Emirates. Arsenal beat Manchester City 2-1, going four points above their competitors, with playmaker Ozil providing two assists.
Arsenal old boy Bacary Sagna got a warm reception from his former teammates, but Nasri’s presence didn’t seem to be as warmly received. As the German went to speak to injured City captain, Vincent Kompany, Nasri called out “Mesut….”, along with a little wink. Surprised, and probably a bit embarrassed that Ozil didn’t come speak to him, Nasri followed up with an unreciprocated “I love you.”
The two midfielders are known to be friends and seen together on several occasions partying at various venues. Either Ozil simply didn’t recognize him, or he deliberately snubbed Nasri. The Frenchman does look very different with the blond hair, to be fair. Whatsoever the reason may be, this incident will surely boost the German playmaker’s ‘hero status’ among the Arsenal supporters.
Ozil has been in scintillating form this season, breaking records all with every appearance. He has a total of 15 Premier League assists this season. The German has now scored or assisted a goal in 11 consecutive Premier League matches. He overtook Lionel Messi as the footballer with the highest number of assists since in Europe since August 2008 with 101 assists. Undoubtedly the 27-year-old has been the best player for the North London club this season, making him a fan favourite.
Nasri was a fan favorite with Arsenal until he left for newly rich Manchester City in 2011 under acrimonious circumstances. He hasn't been held in high esteem by the Gunners ever since. The transfer fee was priced in the region of £25 million and the player signed a four-year contract. The 28-year-old has scored 27 goals in all competition for the Gunners in 125 appearances. But since joining City, his career took a hit due to the presence of superstar midfielders in the City squad.
