Hundreds of German fans gathered in support for Mesut Ozil after he quit international football, citing “racism and disrespect” over his Turkish roots.
Supporters gathered in Berlin on Sunday wearing ‘I am Ozil’ T-shirts, waving Turkish and German flags in solidarity with the Arsenal midfielder.
[ads1]He said last week he received hate mail and threats, and was blamed for Germany’s disappointing World Cup.
Germany’s football association “rejected” allegations of racism.
Ozil, 29, was criticised after being photographed with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in May.
In announcing his international retirement, he said: “I am German when we win, but I am an immigrant when we lose.”
Former Germany striker Fredi Bobic, who is now the Eintracht Frankfurt sporting director, criticised the manner of Ozil’s international retirement.
“Ozil’s criticism of social media, especially in the direction of the German Football Association (DFB), is unbearable.
“This blanket charge of racism simply does not correspond to reality. He could have given an interview somewhere, live on TV.
“For us footballers, the rule is ‘be a man and stand up.'”
He thanked fans for their “love” during the Gunners’ pre-season tour, and has received backing from his team-mates and new manager Unai Emery.
