Mesut Ozil, the ex-Arsenal player, subtly criticized Chelsea on social media while identifying his choice for the world’s best defender.
Ozil, who spent seven seasons at Arsenal after joining from Real Madrid in 2013 and winning four FA Cups, appears to maintain a strong connection with the club.
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His recent comments pointedly address Chelsea’s current struggles, with the team currently positioned 10th in the Premier League.
Real Madrid, Ozil’s former team, secured a 1-0 victory against Real Mallorca on Wednesday, with Antonio Rudiger netting the sole goal.
Carlo Ancelotti praised Rudiger after the match, acknowledging that he is ‘giving his all’ this season.
“He has taken advantage of others’ injuries. He is performing at a very high level, with continuity. He is always ready in duels. He is an insurance that we have behind. He is doing his best,” said the veteran Italian manager.
Ozil reacted to Ancelotti’s claim by hailing Antonio Rudiger as the ‘world’s best defender’.
In the process, he teased Chelsea by suggesting that they lack the mental strength of the star defender.
“Prime Toni Rudiger is just the world’s best defender at the moment,” he tweeted.
“Incredible season for my former club Real Madrid. You can also ask Haaland or Osimhen how good he is! Look what has happened with Chelsea after he left… they are missing his mentality every day…”
At 30, Rudiger departed from Stamford Bridge in the summer of 2022 after a five-season stint with the club.
Joining the La Liga giants on a free transfer, he has enhanced his standing with notable performances in Spain.
This season, the German international has participated in 24 games across all competitions, following up on his 53 appearances last season.
Chelsea, on the other hand, has conceded 31 goals this season and faces challenges under Mauricio Pochettino, who could benefit from tapping into Rudiger’s defensive capabilities.
