Mesut Ozil Laments 'Frustrating, Sleepless Night' After Arsenal's Europa League

Arsenal midfielder Mesut Ozil has outlined his frustration at the team's exit from the UEFA Europa League against Atletico Madrid on Thursday, saying he struggled to sleep after the game.

The Gunners lost 1-0 on the night in the Spanish capital after a Diego Costa goal, with Atletico winning the semi-final 2-1 on aggregate. Ozil posted the following message on his Instagram lamenting the missed opportunity to win silverware:

"What a frustrating, sleepless night in Madrid! This was our last chance to win a trophy this season, our last chance to lift another silverware with our boss. 😕 Still two more things to say: Thanks to all Gunners for the away support. And get well soon @koscielny_official6 🙏🏼 #UEL @Arsenal"

As noted by the German, the loss means manager Arsene Wenger will finish his 22nd and final season in charge of the club without a trophy.

Wenger has previously won the Premier League three times and the FA Cup on seven occasions, although throughout his tenure he has not steered the side to success in a continental competition.

Arsenal were in control of the tie in the first leg, as they led 1-0 against an Atletico team reduced to 10 men early on. However, Antoine Griezmann snaffled a late goal for the visitors and the Madrid outfit were able to complete the job professionally on home soil.

As noted by Gunnerblog's James McNicholas, it was a disappointing and emotional evening for the club:

After the game, Ozil attracted some fierce criticism for his performance, with former Arsenal man Martin Keown laying into the playmaker on BT Sport.

"I bet he doesn't play again this season," said the former defender, per BBC Sport. "He will have some emotional breakdown and won't be able to play at the weekend. He wasn't fit to wear the shirt for me tonight, and I have seen this a lot this season."

When asked about the criticism, Wenger said he didn't agree with his former player's assessment and said Ozil was being "victimised," per the same source.

The GunnerPunner Twitter account said Keown was harsh and provided some figures to back up their assessment:

Ozil signed a new contract at Arsenal earlier in the campaign, much to the delight of so many associated with the club. His previous deal was set to expire at the end of the season and there were fears he may have left on a free transfer.

According to David Hynter of the Guardian, his deal is worth £350,000 a week. While some will say for that type of money the midfielder should be putting in better performances in big matches, Ozil is nowhere near the biggest issue this Arsenal side have as they stand on the brink of a period of seismic transition.