Mesut Ozil has responded to his axing from the Arsenal squad for the English Premier League season, describing the snub as ‘deeply disappointing’.

The 32-year old, who is taking home a salary of £350 000 ($450 000) a week, has also been omitted from the team’s Europa selection. He has not featured in a game under coach Mikel Arteta since March.

In a statement posted on social media, Ozil said: “This is a difficult message to write to the Arsenal fans that I’ve played for over the past few years.

“I’m really deeply disappointed by the fact that I have not been registered for the Premier League season for the time being.

“Upon signing my new contract in 2018, I pledged my loyalty and allegiance to the club that I love, Arsenal, and it saddens me that this has not been reciprocated.

“As I have just found out, loyalty is hard to come by nowadays. I’ve always tried to remain positive from week to week that there’s maybe a chance to get back in the squad soon again. That’s why I kept silent so far.

“Before the Coronavirus break, I was really happy with the development under our new coach Mikel Arteta – we’ve been on a positive way and I would say my performances were on a really good level.

“But then things changed, again, and I was no longer allowed to play football for Arsenal.

“What else can I say? London still feels like home, I still have many good friends in this team, and I still feel a strong connection with the fans of this club.

“No matter what, I will keep fighting for my chance and not let my 8th season at Arsenal end like this.

“I can promise you that this hard decision won’t change anything in my mindset – I will continue to train as best as I can and wherever possible use my voice against inhumanity and for justice.”