Mesut Özil vs. Ivan Rakitić: A Comprehensive Comparison of Two Midfield Magicians

In the world of football, the midfield is where games are won or lost. It’s where vision, creativity, and tactical genius meet physical prowess and endurance. Two players who embodied these traits during their illustrious careers are Mesut Özil and Ivan Rakitić. Though they may have operated in different systems and brought unique qualities to the pitch, both Özil and Rakitić left an indelible mark on the sport.

This article takes a deep dive into the careers of Mesut Özil and Ivan Rakitić, comparing their playing styles, achievements, contributions to their respective teams, and overall impact on football.

Early Careers and Rise to Stardom

Mesut Özil: Germany’s Creative Maestro

Mesut Özil was born in Gelsenkirchen, Germany, to Turkish parents, and his footballing journey began in the local youth academies. He rose to prominence with Schalke 04 before moving to Werder Bremen in 2008, where his exceptional vision and creativity started to attract attention. Özil’s breakout moment on the international stage came during the 2010 FIFA World Cup, where he was one of the standout performers for Germany, helping his team reach the semifinals.

After the World Cup, Özil secured a high-profile move to Real Madrid, where he would truly announce himself to the footballing world. His assists and brilliant link-up play with Cristiano Ronaldo helped turn him into one of the best attacking midfielders of his generation.

Ivan Rakitić: Croatia’s Versatile Playmaker

Born in Switzerland to Croatian parents, Ivan Rakitić began his professional career with FC Basel before moving to Schalke 04 in the Bundesliga. Like Özil, it was in Germany that Rakitić started to develop his game, but it wasn’t until his move to Sevilla in 2011 that he truly rose to stardom.

At Sevilla, Rakitić showcased his versatility, playing as both an attacking midfielder and a deeper-lying playmaker. His leadership and technical prowess were instrumental in Sevilla’s 2013–14 UEFA Europa League triumph, earning him a transfer to FC Barcelona, where he would go on to become one of the best midfielders in the world.

---

Playing Style and Strengths

Mesut Özil’s Playmaking Genius

Mesut Özil is best known for his extraordinary ability to create chances out of nothing. His vision is arguably unparalleled, allowing him to spot runs and openings that others wouldn’t even consider. Özil excels in playing between the lines, finding space in congested areas, and delivering perfectly timed through balls.

• Strengths:
  • Vision and Passing: Özil is the definition of a playmaker. His ability to deliver accurate passes, whether short or long, was his trademark at Real Madrid, Arsenal, and the German national team.
  • Assists: Özil’s assist numbers are staggering. He holds numerous records for assists, including the most assists in a Premier League season for Arsenal.
  • Movement and Positioning: Özil’s intelligence on the field allows him to exploit spaces in defenses, making him extremely difficult to mark.

However, Özil has often been criticized for his perceived lack of work rate and physicality. Despite these criticisms, his technical abilities make him one of the most gifted attacking midfielders of his generation.

Ivan Rakitić’s Tactical Versatility

Ivan Rakitić is known for his tactical flexibility and work ethic. Unlike Özil, who operates primarily in attacking areas, Rakitić has demonstrated his ability to excel in various midfield roles. Whether playing as a deep-lying playmaker, box-to-box midfielder, or even as an attacking midfielder, Rakitić has been a crucial cog in every team he’s played for.

• Strengths:
  • Versatility: Rakitić’s ability to play multiple midfield roles makes him invaluable to managers. He can dictate play from deep, break forward to support attacks, or even help defensively when needed.
  • Passing and Ball Control: Rakitić is an excellent passer with a great range. His ability to switch play or deliver accurate through balls has been key for Barcelona and Croatia.
  • Work Rate and Defensive Contribution: Unlike Özil, Rakitić is known for his tireless work rate. He frequently tracks back to help defensively, making him a more complete midfielder.

Rakitić might not have the same level of flair as Özil, but his tactical discipline and versatility make him one of the most balanced midfielders in modern football.

---

Club Career: Özil at Real Madrid, Arsenal, and Beyond vs. Rakitić at Sevilla and Barcelona

Mesut Özil’s Club Career

Özil’s move to Real Madrid in 2010 was a pivotal moment in his career. Under José Mourinho, Özil became the creative heart of one of the most successful Madrid sides in recent memory. His partnership with Cristiano Ronaldo was particularly fruitful, with Özil providing numerous assists to the Portuguese superstar.

After three successful seasons in Madrid, where he won La Liga and the Copa del Rey, Özil made a shock transfer to Arsenal in 2013. At Arsenal, Özil continued to showcase his playmaking abilities, becoming a fan favorite. He helped end Arsenal’s trophy drought by leading them to several FA Cup victories. However, despite his individual brilliance, Özil’s time at Arsenal was marked by inconsistency, injuries, and eventually, a falling out with management.

Ivan Rakitić’s Club Career

Rakitić’s most significant breakthrough came at Sevilla, where he won the Europa League in 2014. His performances earned him a move to Barcelona, where he became a key figure in Luis Enrique’s treble-winning side in 2014-15. Rakitić formed a strong midfield partnership with players like Sergio Busquets and Andrés Iniesta, playing a crucial role in Barcelona’s successes during that era.

At Barcelona, Rakitić won multiple La Liga titles, Copa del Rey trophies, and the UEFA Champions League. His versatility allowed him to fit seamlessly into Barcelona’s possession-based system, often filling gaps left by more attacking players and providing defensive cover when needed.

---

International Career: Germany vs. Croatia

Mesut Özil with Germany

Özil’s international career with Germany was nothing short of spectacular. He was one of the standout players in the 2010 World Cup, helping Germany reach the semifinals. His crowning achievement came in 2014, when he played a key role in Germany’s World Cup victory in Brazil. Özil’s vision, passing, and composure in midfield were instrumental in Germany’s run to the title, particularly in their famous 7-1 demolition of Brazil in the semifinals.

Despite his success on the field, Özil’s international career ended on a controversial note. Following Germany’s early exit from the 2018 World Cup, Özil was heavily criticized by fans and the media. The criticism, which Özil believed was racially motivated, led to his retirement from international football, citing disrespect and discrimination.

Ivan Rakitić with Croatia

Rakitić, meanwhile, had a storied international career with Croatia. He formed one of the most formidable midfield partnerships in international football with Luka Modrić. Rakitić’s work rate, tactical discipline, and ability to contribute both offensively and defensively were key to Croatia’s success in recent years.

Rakitić’s greatest international moment came during the 2018 World Cup, where Croatia reached the final for the first time in their history. Though they lost to France, Rakitić was instrumental in Croatia’s run to the final, putting in several standout performances along the way. His contributions cemented his place as one of Croatia’s greatest-ever players.

Trophies and Achievements

Mesut Özil’s Honors

Throughout his career, Mesut Özil has been associated with some of the biggest clubs in Europe, and his trophy cabinet reflects that. His individual brilliance and teamwork contributed to the success of the teams he played for, both domestically and internationally.

• La Liga (Real Madrid): 2011-12
• Copa del Rey (Real Madrid): 2010-11, 2013-14
• Supercopa de España (Real Madrid): 2012
• FA Cup (Arsenal): 2013-14, 2014-15, 2016-17
• FA Community Shield (Arsenal): 2015, 2017
• DFB-Pokal (Werder Bremen): 2008-09
• World Cup (Germany): 2014
• UEFA European U-21 Championship (Germany): 2009

Özil’s influence on Real Madrid’s attacking power, especially during the 2011-12 La Liga season when they set a record for goals scored (121), was crucial. Similarly, his contributions to Germany’s 2014 World Cup victory were vital in solidifying his place in football history.

Ivan Rakitić’s Honors

Ivan Rakitić, similarly, boasts a long list of trophies from his time at Sevilla and Barcelona, along with a stellar international career with Croatia. Known for his consistency and tactical importance, Rakitić was an integral part of some of the most successful Barcelona sides of all time.

• La Liga (Barcelona): 2014-15, 2015-16, 2017-18, 2018-19
• Copa del Rey (Barcelona): 2014-15, 2015-16, 2016-17, 2017-18
• Supercopa de España (Barcelona): 2016, 2018
• UEFA Champions League (Barcelona): 2014-15
• UEFA Super Cup (Barcelona): 2015
• FIFA Club World Cup (Barcelona): 2015
• UEFA Europa League (Sevilla): 2013-14
• Croatian Football Cup (Dinamo Zagreb): 2006-07

While Rakitić did not win the World Cup, he was a key player in Croatia’s run to the 2018 World Cup final, helping them become runners-up—a historic moment for Croatian football.

Influence on Modern Football

Mesut Özil’s Influence

Mesut Özil’s influence on modern football can be seen in how the attacking midfield or “number 10” role evolved during his career. In a world increasingly focused on pressing and physicality, Özil was a throwback to the pure playmaker—relying on technical skill, vision, and intelligence. His passing and assist numbers at Real Madrid and Arsenal were exemplary, showing that creativity can still dominate in a high-paced, physical game.

Özil’s ability to make difficult plays seem effortless inspired a generation of attacking midfielders, such as Kai Havertz and Julian Brandt, who have been lauded for their passing and vision. His approach to football also influenced the tactical setups of teams that sought to utilize a creative fulcrum, often building play around such a player. However, Özil’s career also serves as a lesson for modern football—showing the difficulties playmakers face in adapting to the increasing emphasis on off-the-ball work.

Ivan Rakitić’s Influence

Rakitić’s influence lies in his adaptability and ability to play multiple roles in midfield. His career at Barcelona was emblematic of how football has shifted towards multifunctional midfielders. Unlike Özil, Rakitić didn’t rely solely on his technical skills but combined them with tactical awareness, defensive work rate, and discipline. He could operate as a deep-lying playmaker, attacking midfielder, or even in a more box-to-box role, depending on what the team required.

Rakitić influenced players such as Frenkie de Jong and Matteo Guendouzi, who embody versatility and balance in midfield. His importance in Barcelona’s tiki-taka system—where quick, short passes were the norm—cemented him as a key figure in one of the most dominant clubs in modern football.

Off the Pitch: Personalities and Philanthropy

Mesut Özil’s Off-the-Pitch Contributions

Mesut Özil is a high-profile figure off the pitch, not just for his footballing accomplishments but also for his philanthropy and humanitarian efforts. Known for his charitable work, Özil famously donated his 2014 World Cup earnings to pay for surgeries for 23 Brazilian children. His work with BigShoe, a charity that helps underprivileged children receive medical care, earned him widespread praise.

Additionally, Özil has been an advocate for social justice and has used his platform to speak out against racism and discrimination. His exit from the German national team in 2018 brought the issue of racism to the forefront, with Özil stating he was scapegoated because of his Turkish heritage.

In recent years, Özil has also ventured into the world of eSports, launching M10 Esports, which focuses on FIFA gaming and nurturing young talent in the digital world. His personality and charisma off the pitch, combined with his actions for charity, have endeared him to many beyond football.

Ivan Rakitić’s Off-the-Pitch Contributions

Ivan Rakitić, though quieter than Özil in the media, has also contributed significantly to charitable causes. He has been involved in various initiatives in his native Croatia, focusing on children’s hospitals and improving conditions for underprivileged youth.

Rakitić has also participated in football charity matches and events to raise funds for important causes, often emphasizing his Croatian roots. Known as a family man, Rakitić’s off-the-pitch personality is more reserved than Özil’s, but his dedication to charitable efforts in both Spain and Croatia has been noteworthy.

Legacy and What Lies Ahead

Mesut Özil’s Legacy

Mesut Özil’s legacy will likely be defined by his technical brilliance and his role in bringing creativity and finesse back into the spotlight in an era dominated by physicality. Özil’s time at Real Madrid, where he was the engine behind many of Ronaldo’s goals, and his influence at Arsenal, where he was their creative focal point, solidify his status as one of the most talented playmakers of his generation.

Despite the controversies surrounding his exit from both Germany and Arsenal, Özil will be remembered for his footballing genius. His numbers—especially assists—speak for themselves, and his 2014 World Cup win is the crowning achievement of a brilliant career. What lies ahead for Özil after his football career remains to be seen, though his interest in eSports and philanthropy suggest he will stay active in ventures outside the football world.

Ivan Rakitić’s Legacy

Ivan Rakitić’s legacy will be that of a consummate professional who was willing to adapt his game to fit the needs of his team. His success at Barcelona, including winning the Champions League and multiple La Liga titles, as well as his pivotal role in Croatia’s 2018 World Cup run, will define his career.

Rakitić may not have had the flair of Özil, but his importance in some of the greatest teams of the 21st century cannot be understated. His ability to fit into different tactical systems and perform at a high level consistently will ensure he is remembered as one of the most dependable and versatile midfielders of his time.

Conclusion

The debate over whether Mesut Özil or Ivan Rakitić had the greater impact is subjective, depending on what one values in a footballer. If the focus is on pure creativity and playmaking brilliance, Özil would take the edge. His ability to unlock defenses and provide crucial assists at the highest level is a rare talent, and his influence on modern attacking midfielders is significant.

On the other hand, if one values tactical versatility, work ethic, and the ability to perform consistently in multiple roles, Rakitić’s career stands out. His success at Barcelona and his integral role in Croatia’s historic World Cup run make him a crucial figure in the history of both club and international football.

Both players have left their mark on the game in unique ways, and football is richer for having had them on the pitch. Whether through Özil’s vision or Rakitić’s tactical intelligence, the contributions of these two midfield maestros will be remembered for years to come.