Arsenal fans have been crying out for a quality holding midfielder for the past decade and their wish had been fulfilled with the arrival of Borussia Mönchengladbach captain, Granit Xhaka in 2016.
Xhaka promised so much, long-range passing, brilliant shooting, and leadership to name a few qualities, however after a short cameo in his first season, he promised very little thereafter.
Lunging into unnecessary challenges, leading to a booking and slow on the ball were the main problems which left Arsenal fans frustrated at times.
However, with Unai Emery coming in this year, Granit Xhaka was made 1 of the 5 captains on his list. He also introduced different strategies and tactics to the Swiss which has been a revelation till now for Arsenal.
https://arsedevils.com/predicted-lineup-arsenal-qarabag-team/10194/
Xhaka has shown many positive changes since Unai’s arrival – better passing, commanding the ball well, better defensive record and yes scoring through some wonderful free-kicks.
Lucas Torreira’s arrival has benfited Xhaka’s form more than anything else. Torreira’s defensive capabilities unleash the Swiss’ passing as well as attacking skills. Their partnership in the midfield has been very crucial to the Gunners’ Unbeaten Run.
Xhaka-Torreira put in such a good display yet again. While fans have given Torreira big praise and rightly so, Xhaka deserves just as much. Fantastic leader for this set of players and he orchestrated our play so nicely yet again!
— Sash ~ (@ltarsenal) December 2, 2018
In my opinion, this has to go down to Emery. He must have instructed the players not to get too comfortable. Players will start as per their performance, not prestige, as we can see with Ozil’s situation.
One can say Xhaka is in his prime years and is only 25 years old which makes the Arsenal’s midfield future proof.
Emery knew the potential of the Swiss International and hence adorned him the captain’s arm-band, hoping to keep discipline while maintaining leadership.
Xhaka hasn’t got a single red card this season, but earned five yellow cards which cannot be overlooked. His passing has been questioned a couple of times, however, in the majority, he has provided some splendid crosses and passes.
Most passes into the final third in the Premier League this season by outfield players:
• Granit Xhaka (197)
• Fernandinho (167)
• Rúben Neves (167)
• Jorginho (163)Chief distributors. 🧭 pic.twitter.com/yLK9iBc1eY
— Squawka (@Squawka) December 11, 2018
Overall, Xhaka has been a more well-rounded box to box midfielder. Also, Rob Holding has improved well from last season. Although unfortunately, Rob suffered a very bad injury (ACL) against Manchester United and will probably won’t feature again for the Gunners this season.
Emery and his tactics have not only worked in Xhaka’s favour but also with other players like Holding, Iwobi. Arsenal fans need to give him more time and after a few more transfer windows, we can think of lifting some serious silverware.
Arsenal now face Qarabag in their final group stage fixture of the Europa League on Thursday.