Granit Xhaka will soon be on his way out of North London, if his recent comments are anything to go by.
The Swiss international was named the Arsenal captain and then stripped of the captaincy in a matter of weeks.
After much consternation over the decision, Arsenal coach Unai Emery finally named Granit Xhaka the captain, two months into the season.
A player who became a lightning rod for fan frustration, Xhaka found himself under even more intense scrutiny.
Upon being booed by the Emirates crowd against Crystal Palace, Xhaka reacted. He was seen telling the fans to ‘f*** off’.
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Since, he has been taken out of the team and replaced as the captain by Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang.
The general feeling is that Xhaka will soon leave Arsenal. Newcastle have already been linked as a potential January destination.
Despite the fact that Unai Emery would start him all the time in his ideal world, the situation looks untenable. Speaking midweek, Emery remained hopeful that Xhaka could come back into the team.
“He is coming back better in his mind, his mindset is better to help us and to be closer to playing when we need him,” said Emery.
“I spoke to him this morning and we had a very good conversation.
“We are going to decide tomorrow … but I want to do that comeback, give him confidence and make him comfortable. And when we can connect with our supporters with a good moment and a good performance and being strong with them.”
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However, Xhaka seems determined. His comments to the Swiss press while on international duty paint a grim picture.
“I have a clear idea as to how things should proceed, and Arsenal know this as well.
“Although I still have a contract with them, I will be glad to return to the club so we can finally sort matters out.
“There will surely be a solution, as I can’t accept what has happened with me.”
