Amid rumours, Arsenal midfielder Granit Xhaka will be extending his stay at the Emirates.
He will be reportedly signing a deal stretching to 2025. The Swiss’ future was in peril after his indecent outburst towards supporters against Crystal Palace in 2019.
However, he was successful in winning back Arteta’s faith. He proved himself to be a key asset for the Gunners last season. The midfielder slotted in at full-back to replace the injured Kieran Tierney.
Xhaka: An Invaluable Asset for Arsenal
Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta stated at the weekend: “Granit Xhaka is going to stay with us. He is a key member of our squad,”
The 28-year-old’s contract runs only till 2023. AS Roma were favourites to snap him up. Unfortunately, the Italian side’s offer fell short of Arsenal’s £17,000,000 valuation.
It may seem to be a U-turn by Arsenal. Nonetheless, it is believed that Mikel Arteta never wanted to let go of Xhaka in the first place. Arteta was crucial in convincing him to stay.
Arsenal had signed Xhaka from Borussia Monchengladbach in 2016. While his stay at the club has been tumultuous, he has been pivotal in midfield.
The Swiss international is satisfied staying in England. He has informed Roma manager Jose Mourinho of his decision.
Xhaka impressed for Switzerland during Euro 2020. He has netted up to 13 goals and 20 assists from 220 games at Arsenal. Last season he registered 1 goal and assisted 2 more from 44 appearances.
The club might need him more than ever given their thinning midfield. Odegaard and Ceballos have returned to Spain from their loan at the Emirates. Out of the remaining Partey and Elneny, Partey has already picked up an injury.
