LONDON — Mesut Ozil said the trust shown in him by Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger was the key reason he joined the north London club from Real Madrid on the final day of the transfer window. Arsenal smashed its transfer record to sign the Germany international for 42 million pounds ($66.42 million) and the playmaker was quick to insist it was not a step backward despite widespread surprise that the Spanish giant agreed to let him go. “The most important thing was (the manager's) plans for me and what he thinks about me,” Ozil, who created 92 chances for his teammates at Real last season, told reporters at his first news conference since his switch. Speaking in German through a translator, Ozil said Arsenal provided the perfect environment for him to improve. “I had a good time at Madrid and had good moments there,” he said. “You can see the reaction of the (Real) players and fans that they didn't understand (why I left) but this is football and you have to look ahead. “I want to continue developing here and I feel that I'm at the right club. I know how successful Arsenal has been. I know the step here is the right one. “Many young players came here and got better. I'm happy to play under a great coach. I have a new task here, we have big goals and will work very hard to reach those goals.” Ozil also said he believes the club can challenge for the English Premier League title this season. Asked if Arsenal could finish top next May, Ozil replied: “Of course. “I know the team, I know that talent we have here and I think every player wants to be successful. It will be difficult because this is the strongest league in the world.” Ozil is in line for a Premier League debut at Sunderland Saturday, especially as Wenger will be without Tomas Rosicky who was injured in midweek playing for the Czech Republic. “I have watched a lot of Premier League games,” he said. “It is very physical here but I am really glad to play in the best league in the world. “I want to prove myself in England and I look forward to playing here. I know I will prove myself here.” Wenger, who said the process of bringing Ozil to north London had been “complicated,” said the 24-year-old would become one of the leaders in the team. “He has a style of play that will integrate with our style of play because his game is based on movement and technical ability. He has all the attributes to be one of our leaders.” — Agencies
