Alex Iwobi says he played with a defender at Arsenal who was an even smarter footballer than Mesut Ozil

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Former Arsenal midfielder Mesut Ozil is widely regarded as one of the most elegant players to ever grace the Premier League.

Arsenal supporters could not believe their eyes back in 2013 when Arsene Wenger pulled off the signing of Ozil on transfer deadline day from Real Madrid.

Morgan Rogers is a big fan of Ozil and recently praised his passing ability by labelling it as ‘so pleasing’ on the eye.

The German had mixed fortunes at the Emirates Stadium, he was integral in winning four FA Cup trophies but was often criticised for his work rate. Former teammate Alex Iwobi also thinks one defender was smarter than Ozil.

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Alex Iwobi claims Per Mertesacker was ‘smarter’ than Mesut Ozil

Former Hale End star Iwobi was asked to build his ultimate footballer from teammates that he has played with during his career.

Iwobi chose Santi Cazorla’s right foot and Ozil for his left foot. Former Fulham speedster Adama Traore was chosen for his pace and strength.

Alexis Sanchez was named by Iwobi as the most skilful player he had played with but there was a surprise choice for footballing IQ.

Iwobi originally chose Ozil as the smartest for his ultimate player but changed his mind at the last minute to current academy manager Per Mertesacker.

Ozil’s German compatriot could read the game better than most and often his brain made up for his lack of pace in defence.

He formed an excellent partnership at the back with Laurent Koscielny under Wenger and the Gunners suffered dearly when either were out injured.

Per Mertesacker’s Arsenal academy ethos continues to bring unprecedented success

Mikel Arteta is continuing to reap the rewards of Mertesacker’s success as the Gunners academy boss with Max Dowman the next talent off the ranks.

The 15-year-old follows the likes of Ethan Nwaneri and Myles Lewis-Skelly in breaking through to the first-team squad.

Mertesacker’s academy ethos shows his intelligence as it is a message that all young footballers need to hear early during their career.

The German goes by the ethos of: “Talent gets you in the building, character sets the ceiling.” He continues to inspire the next generation of Arsenal superstars.