Granit Xhaka
Granit Xhaka, the Swiss midfielder who joined Arsenal from Borussia Monchengladbach in May 2016 for approximately £35 million, has shared his reflections on his time at the club and his transition to Bayer Leverkusen. After seven years with the Gunners, Xhaka returned to the Bundesliga, leaving behind a legacy marked by both scrutiny and significant contributions.
Granit Xhaka said: “A special team, great players, and a club that never stopped believing but this is all because of you, Mikel. To everyone who doubted you, give this man and this coach the respect he deserves. Congratulations to the whole @arsenal family.”
Xhaka’s tenure at Arsenal was a rollercoaster, with the midfielder facing considerable scrutiny during his time in the Premier League. Despite the challenges, he ended his spell on a high note, playing a pivotal role in Arsenal’s title charge under manager Mikel Arteta. However, despite his efforts, Arsenal fell short of glory, with Manchester City clinching the title for the third consecutive year.
Granit Xhaka explained: “I felt like my time at Arsenal was over for me after seven years in London. I came here as an experienced player and person. The other players see that I can give them something of what I have learned. That’s part of my role here. That’s not the truth. Like me, she was very happy in London. I made the decision solely as a footballer and athlete.”
Xhaka’s decision to join Bayer Leverkusen was driven by his desire to embrace a new challenge and contribute his experience to a club with a clear plan and ambitions. He highlighted the advantages of working in a less chaotic environment compared to the pressure-laden atmosphere at Arsenal.
Granit Xhaka added: “I came to a top club in Germany that has a plan and wants to achieve something. You can work in peace at Bayer Leverkusen, there is no chaos, other clubs are more in focus. This is an advantage. But we have high ambitions because we know that we have enormous potential in the team. If we keep working like this and keep our feet on the ground, we can achieve something.”
During his two-year stint at Leverkusen, Xhaka played a crucial role in helping Xabi Alonso’s team secure an unbeaten Bundesliga title. Last summer, he made a return to the Premier League, aiding Sunderland in their battle against relegation to the Championship.
As Arsenal continues to thrive under Arteta, with aspirations for silverware this season, the Gunners remain strong contenders in the Premier League, Champions League, and Carabao Cup. With a focus on achieving the biggest trophies, Arsenal fans have much to look forward to as the club aims for success on multiple fronts.
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