German's team covers their mouth during the team photo prior to the World Cup group E soccer match between Germany and Japan, at the Khalifa International Stadium in Doha, Qatar, Wednesday, Nov. 23, 2022. AP Photo

Grindel later said he should have given Ozil more support.

After playing in Sunday's game at Al Bayt Stadium, which Germany and Spain drew 1-1, Gundogan said he just wanted to focus on soccer from now on.

"Honestly, my point of view is: now the politics are finished," Gundogan said. "The country of Qatar is very proud to host the World Cup, also the first Muslim country, and I come from a Muslim family. So the Muslim community is proud. So I think now it's just about football."