Mesut Ozil has been the harbinger of rumors and gossip over the last few months, but he has done a great deal of talking on the pitch. The Arsenal man is one of the top contenders to bring home the Ballon d'Or this year and here are a few reasons why.
Ozil was terrific for Real Madrid in 2012-13 and recorded nine goals and 13 assists. He also led the team to the Champions League semifinals as the main focal point in the midfield. However, he left early in 2013-14 over rumors that he was no longer satisfied with the team. Real Madrid and Ozil's camp have constantly fired at one another regarding the responsibility of the move; ultimately, one can conclude that Ozil was unhappy with the addition of new midfielders such as Gareth Bale and Isco and the fact that his spot was no longer secure with the club.
However, Ozil's move to Arsenal has not only brought about a sense of rejuvenation for the German superstar, but has also given Arsenal its best start in years. The team currently heads the Barclays Premier League and is in prime position to get out of the "Group of Death" in the Champions League. Moreover, he has two goals and four assists in the Premier League and one goal and one assist in the Champions League.
His form for Germany has been equally stellar. He scored three goals in the last three qualifiers and finished with a total of eight tallies in 10 games for his nation.
Ozil's chances of winning are hindered by the resurgence of Cristiano Ronaldo and Zlatan Ibrahimovic, but it is possible that some vote for him for the leadership role he has played with Arsenal.
Prediction: Ozil finishes in the top 10.
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