He was criticized and abused following Germany's loss of Russia: German Federation admits it was wrong about Ozil

The German Football Federation (DFB) has admitted to making mistakes regarding the treatment of Mesut Ozil that affected his retirement from the representative.

Turkish-born midfielder, together Ilkay Gundogan, sparked numerous reactions in Germany when they met with Recep Tayip Erdogan. On the eve of the 2018 World Championship, two footballers were photographed in London with Turkey's president.

At the time, Germany was eliminated from Russia, while Ozil became the target of numerous racist criticisms and abuses, which was associated with his retirement, with Arsenal footballists expressing his indignation at racist abuses and disrespect for him.

Now, DFB Secretary General Friedrich Curtis has admitted that they made mistakes in managing the case and that they neglected to meet with the player to discuss the situation broadcast Daily Mail.

“The DFB made mistakes in managing things around the Ozil case. One photograph was blown up on many subjects. At the moment when there was speculation about racism, we failed to meet with the player”, Curtis said at a meeting with young people at the German Integration Foundation.

Following heavy criticism and abuse due to the photo with Erdogan, the footballer bid farewell to Germany's national by publishing a letter that highlighted his feelings towards racism and the disrespect expressed toward football.