Mesut Özil Spoke Out About Azerbaijani Football: It Was a Big Surprise

Today, the Baku Energy Week kicked off in Azerbaijan. Mesut Özil, a member of the Central Executive and Administrative Board of Turkey's Justice and Development Party (AK Parti) and a well-known former footballer, arrived in Baku as part of the Turkish delegation to participate in the event. During the forum, he gave an interview to Oxu.Az.

Özil shared his thoughts on Azerbaijani-Turkish relations, the significance of Baku Energy Week, as well as sports and public activities.

- What are your impressions of participating in the 31st Baku Energy Forum? How do you assess Baku Energy Week?

- This is not my first visit to Azerbaijan. I have been to Baku several times before. However, this is my first time participating in Baku Energy Week. Our esteemed minister invited us as well, so we joined the forum. The event is going very positively. Very important agreements were also reached here for Azerbaijan. I am happy to be here.

- You are now involved in politics. How do you assess the relations between Azerbaijan and Turkey?

- Azerbaijan and Turkey are brotherly countries. They have always supported each other and demonstrated solidarity. The presidents of both countries constantly speak about this. That is why I am glad to be here, and we are having a wonderful day.

- Do you still follow Azerbaijani football?

- Yes, I do. Especially the Qarabağ football club, which is developing day by day. The team had a very good season, especially in the Champions League. It was a big surprise. I wish Qarabağ success. There is a lot of talented youth in Azerbaijan, and I hope we will see them at an even higher level.

- The 2026 World Cup starts in a few days. What do you expect from the Turkish national team?

- Of course, at the World Cup, our hearts will beat together with the Turkish national team. We are eagerly awaiting the start of the tournament. If Turkey is participating in the World Cup, then of course they can reach the final as well. We have very talented footballers, and the head coach has managed to build a strong national team.