Speaking on ITV’s Football Show Podcast (via Mirror), Ian Wright criticised Arsenal for deciding to sell Granit Xhaka this summer.
The Swiss midfielder is edging closer to an exit after spending five seasons in north London, with Roma emerging as favorites to sign him. Currently starring at the Euros for his country, the 28-year-old has helped them qualify for the quarterfinals.
Former Gunners striker Wright first spoke about the player’s incredible performance against France in the Round of 16. He said:
“That is the best I’ve ever seen him [Xhaka] play. I feel for him because he’s someone I’ve been very critical of in the past and when you see a performance like, do you blame him or the coaches for not getting those performances out of him in the past?”
The Arsenal legend also spoke about Arsenal’s decision to part ways with the midfielder as he added:
“I have never seen him used to that effect. There’s no way Arsenal should be selling a player that can play like that, at that level. So unfortunately for us it looks like he is going but I’m delighted for him because he’s answered a lot of critics. He was magnificent.”
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It has to be mentioned that Xhaka did produce some scintillating performances for the north Londoners, but it wasn’t on a consistent basis. A few high-profile errors have tainted the player’s legacy which is a shame given how good he has been for the club.
When the Swiss player does depart, it will leave a big hole in the Gunners midfield and the club will need to bring in a quality replacement. It would be good if the club can bring in someone right away.
As the midfielder has shown at the Euros, he is still capable of bossing a game and the Swiss captain did so against the likes of Paul Pogba and N’Golo Kante. Under Jose Mourinho at Roma, the 28-year-old could shine playing in a less intense league. The sale of Granit Xhaka is a move that is going to divide opinion among Arsenal supporters. But if a good enough replacement is brought in, it will soften the blow of losing the midfielder.
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