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#WorldCupRank: No. 29 Mesut Ozil

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No. 29 Mesut Ozil, Arsenal/Germany

Why he's ranked: The euphoria surrounding Arsenal's success in signing Ozil from Real Madrid in the final hours of last summer's transfer window for a club-record 42.4 million pounds justified the capture of a player considered to be one of the world's best midfielders. While his form at Arsenal has been patchy, his guile and ability to create goals for his teammates is vital to Germany's hopes at Brazil 2014.

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caption: Ozil's been the glue in midfield for the Germans and he'll be integral for them again in Brazil.
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Key stat: Created the most scoring chances for Germany at 2010 World Cup (20). Next closest was Bastian Schweinsteiger with 13.

What the experts say: "He is the only real 'No. 10' Germany has. A gifted playmaker, he can pause or accelerate the speed of the game in equal measure, but always in style. He didn't enjoy a great season with Arsenal but he will be in good form for the World Cup." - Vito De Palma

Other Articles:
- ESPN FC Blogs: Germany
- The countdown: Our Top 50 players of the World Cup

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