In a seismic shift of policy at the Emirates, Mikel Arteta has overseen a dramatic Deadline Day clearout, severing ties with the club's highest earner, Mesut Özil, and two other senior defenders in a ruthless squad overhaul.
The long-awaited departure of German playmaker Mesut Özil to Turkish giants Fenerbahçe has finally been confirmed, bringing a contentious and expensive chapter in Arsenal's history to a close. The 32-year-old World Cup winner, who fell completely out of favour under Arteta, leaves on a free transfer after his mammoth £350,000-a-week contract was terminated by mutual consent.
Defensive Duo Shown the Door
The exodus didn't stop with Özil. In a double defensive blow, the club also confirmed the exits of centre-back Shkodran Mustafi and left-back Sead Kolašinac. Mustafi, another German international, has joined Bundesliga side Schalke 04, while Kolašinac has returned to his former club Schalke on loan until the end of the season.
This flurry of activity represents a decisive move by Arteta and Technical Director Edu to purge the squad of high-profile players who no longer feature in their long-term plans, freeing up a significant amount of the wage bill for future recruitment.
A New Era Under Arteta
The clearance of these three players signals a definitive end to the post-Arsène Wenger era and firmly stamps Arteta's own identity on the team. By moving on players associated with the club's recent struggles, the Spaniard is making a clear statement about the standards and commitment required to wear the Arsenal shirt.
This bold strategy is a gamble, removing experienced heads from a squad that has struggled for consistency. However, it demonstrates a clear vision from the hierarchy to build a younger, hungrier, and more dynamic team aligned with Arteta's philosophy.
For Arsenal fans, Deadline Day 2021 will be remembered not for a big-money signing, but for the club finally turning a page and embarking on a new, albeit uncertain, journey under their determined manager.
