The German FA is demanding Arsenal midfielder Mesut Ozil explain his reasons for being photographed with Turkish president Recep Tayyip Erdogan before the World Cup.
The president of the German FA (DFB) Reinhard Grindel insists fans deserve an explanation.
“It’s true that Mesut has not commented yet, which has disappointed many fans because they have questions and expect an answer, and they rightly expect that answer,” Grindel told Kicker.
“So it’s very clear to me that Mesut, when he returns from vacation, should also publicly give his view.
“We also want to wait and see how Mesut gets involved. It’s fair we give a well-deserved international who made a mistake a chance.”
With Joachim Löw set to stay in charge despite Germany’s group stage exit in Russia, Grindel said Özil’s international future will be in the coach’s hands.
“It comes down to the athletic analysis of the national coach,” the DFB president added.
“In fact, I hope that Özil’s opinion is so clear that the questions of the fans and the association are answered.”
