Former Germany international Mesut Ozil has reportedly been added to the database of the Ukrainian website Myrotvorets following his criticism of FIFA's approach to sanctions against Russian and Israeli football teams.
As reported by İdman.Biz, the former Arsenal and Real Madrid midfielder accused world football's governing body of applying double standards.
Ozil made the remarks in late October following a veterans' friendly match between Istanbul and Zenit, which ended in a 3-2 victory for the Turkish side.
"FIFA did not impose sanctions on Israeli teams, while similar measures were taken against Russian clubs. I call on FIFA to abandon double standards and treat everyone equally," Ozil said.
The comments referred to the restrictions imposed on Russian football teams following Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022, contrasting them with FIFA's approach toward Israeli teams.
Myrotvorets is a controversial Ukrainian website that maintains a database of individuals its operators consider to pose a threat to Ukraine's national security. Inclusion in the database does not constitute an official government sanction or criminal conviction.
Ozil, who helped Germany win the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil, retired from professional football in 2023.
During his professional career, the former midfielder played for Schalke 04, Werder Bremen, Real Madrid, Arsenal, Fenerbahce and Istanbul Basaksehir.
