Ex-Arsenal star Mesut Ozil takes subtle dig at Chelsea after transfer decision

Former Arsenal midfielder Mesut Ozil says Chelsea are missing the 'mentality' of Antonio Rudiger after the defender scored the only goal to help Real Madrid to a vital La Liga win over Mallorca.

Rudiger was the only fit defender for Madrid with Eder Militao and David Alaba injured while club captain Nacho was suspended. On a night when the strikers left their scoring boots at home, it was the former Chelsea defender who came to the rescue of the Los Blancos and ensured they reached the halfway stage of the season as league leaders, above Girona on goal difference. 

Former Germany, and Real Madrid midfielder Ozil could not hide his delight for Rudiger and wrote on his X page: “Prime Toni Rudiger is just the world’s best defender at the moment. 

“Incredible season for my former club Real Madrid. You can also ask Haaland or Osimhen how good he is! Look what has happened with Chelsea after he left… they are missing his mentality every day." 

Rudiger made 203 appearances and scored 12 goals for the Blues, winning the FA Cup, Champions League, Europa League, Uefa Super Cup and Club World Cup.

He however rejected a late attempt from Chelsea for a new contract and joined Real Madrid in 2022 where he's been a key member of Carlo Ancelotti's side. The goal against Mallorca was only his second since joining them but the most important as it ensured they stayed top in La Liga and began the year with a win. 

Chelsea meanwhile are 10th in the Premier League and have struggled to return to the kind of form that helped them win the Champions League when Rudiger was there.