Mesut Ozil spent 3 years as a Real Madrid player, from 2010 to 2013, before moving on to Arsenal.

The 34-year-old made 159 appearances for Real Madrid, scoring 27 goals and providing 81 assists.

Ozil has now revealed what transpired that led to his exit from the club.

According to the German, he cried upon leaving Real Madrid.

“I was very sad when I left Madrid. I remember, at the airport… buff. I had a great time for 3 years at Real Madrid and in this city. I was really happy. But things happened,” Ozil said to Marca.

“Suddenly, at the beginning of that [2013/14] season, I no longer had enough game time and a conflict arose between Mr. Florentino Perez, my father and my agent. We had to search for a new club. It was hard for me. The moment the plane took off, I cried. That was the moment I realised it was over.

“At that time, it seemed good to me, because after the conflict between my father and Mr. Perez, I was worried that I would not have enough game time again if I had not left. So it’s hard to say if it was right or not. But of course, I wish we could have handled the situation differently at that time.

“My departure was a long time ago. I no longer have a problem with anyone, I’m sure we could talk to each other again as normal. No problem.”