The German international was signed from Real Madrid for a club record £42.5million on transfer deadline day in the summer and thrust straight into Premier League action.
His early performances were promising but he has come under increasing scrutiny since the turn of the year with many questioning his ability to cope with the rigours of the English top-flight.
Ozil’s lack of confidence was highlighted when he missed an early penalty and then proved ineffectual against Bayern Munich in last month’s Champions League last-16 first leg defeat at the Emirates Stadium.
He has not started in the Gunners’ two Premier League outings since that game, but a dip in form has come as no surprise to the playmaker.
“Nearly every player who is new to Premier League needs time to settle in,” Ozil told German magazine Sport Bild. “Here, you meet other challenges. It was clear that I would endure a difficult spell because I missed all of Arsenal’s pre-season preparation.”
He added: “There was a time when I was not satisfied with my performances either, but I have come through this phase,” he said. “I don’t concern myself too much with [the criticism].
“Three weeks ago they wrote totally different stories and, in three weeks’ time, they’ll write different stories once again. That’s part of the business in England.”
However, Ozil is certain that he made the right move in swapping Madrid for north London, saying: “That was exactly the right step for my career.”
Written by Steve Milne
