Mesut Ozil, 35, in talks over Germany comeback to play in over-35s World Cup – six years after controversial retirement

MESUT OZIL is in talks to play for Germany at the over-35s World Cup later this year.

According to the Daily Mail, England will host the eight-team tournament over the summer.

AFP

Mesut Ozil is in talks to play for Germany at the over-35s World Cup this summer[/caption]

The hosts and Germany will be joined by Argentina, Brazil, France, Italy, Spain and Uruguay for the EPG Cup, organised by the Elite Players Group.

Steve McManaman, Thierry Henry and Ronaldinho are amongst the marquee names expected to appear.

According to Bild, Ozil could also feature for Germany at the tournament.

The 35-year-old last represented his country at the 2018 World Cup before retiring from international football after the tournament.

He is understood to be on a provisional list of players alongside fellow World Cup winner Sami Khedira.

Germany captain Kevin Kuranyi explained: “Mesut Özil is on the list. I’ve already spoken to him too. But that will be difficult.

“We know the political and media situation with him. I hope that it works and that he ends up wearing the Germany jersey.”

Ozil accused the German FA of racism after announcing his international retirement over five years ago.

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He claimed he had been hung out to dry after meeting controversial Turkey president Recep Erdogan before the 2018 World Cup.

The ex-Arsenal midfielder scored 23 goals in 92 caps for Germany and was part of their 2014 World Cup triumph.

Ozil’s club career also included spells with Real Madrid and Fenerbahce, before he announced his retirement in March 2023 aged 34.