Arsenal

Unai Emery demands more from Mesut Ozil

By Barney Corkhill, Editor | 18 August 2018

Arsenal manager Unai Emery talks up the importance of midfielder Mesut Ozil carrying out his defensive duties as part of a team effort.

Arsenal manager Unai Emery has talked up the importance of Mesut Ozil contributing to his defensive duties.

Ozil featured in a slightly deeper role during Arsenal's 2-0 defeat to Manchester City on the opening weekend, but struggled to have an impact on the game as the defending champions cruised to victory at the Emirates Stadium.

However, Emery insists that there is no need to change Ozil's position and stressed the need to get the former Germany international on the ball as often as possible.

"Every player needs to do [that] in the true moment of a match. There are defensive moments and attacking moments. Every player each needs this commitment," he told reporters.

"For me, we need to start together, whether we are attacking or defending. I want that from every player. The positioning, [Ozil] is playing all his career like a 10, like a right winger going inside to receive the ball.

"It's clear he needs the ball more to give more options in attack. He needs to do in each match, be demanding for us. Defensive moments are for each and every player. Don't change Mesut Ozil in his positioning."

Arsenal's second match of the season comes away to Chelsea this afternoon.