" I used to wear the German shirt with such pride and excitement, but now I don’t. I feel unwanted and think that what I have achieved since my international debut in 2009 has been forgotten. "
- Mesut Ozil

In the given statement, Mesut Ozil expresses a shift in his feelings towards representing Germany. Once he was proud and enthusiastic about donning the German jersey, symbolizing national pride and achievement. However, now he experiences a sense of alienation and being overlooked, suggesting that his past accomplishments are no longer acknowledged or valued.

This quote delves deeper into themes of identity, recognition, and acceptance within one's community. Ozil’s statement highlights the complexities of personal identity in the context of sports and nationality. It underscores how public opinion and societal attitudes can shift drastically over time, affecting an individual's sense of belonging and self-worth. The feelings of being forgotten or unwanted reflect broader issues such as social change, political climates, and the impact of media on perceptions of athletes.

Mesut Ozil is a former German national team footballer known for his exceptional skills in midfield. Born in Germany to Turkish immigrants, he began playing for Germany's youth teams before making his international debut in 2009. Throughout his career, he has been one of the most successful and highly regarded players on the German squad, earning numerous accolades both domestically and internationally. However, recent years have seen a significant shift in public opinion towards him, likely influenced by political debates surrounding immigration and integration in Germany.