Despite the clash that former Arsenal captain Granit Xhaka had with the fans during the club’s 2-2 draw against Crystal Palace, he remains an integral part of the squad.
The midfielder reacted badly to his own supporters booing him off the field and his response did not go down well. He was stripped of the captaincy and has subsequently been left from every match-day squad.
But as per reports in Metro, David Ornstein of The Athletic suggests that Xhaka remains a part of the plans that the Gunners have for the season.
The former BBC journalist further claims that Xhaka is considered to be an important member of the squad both by players and those in charge of the club as well. His quality off the pitch is thought of very highly apart from his skills on the pitch.
After the clash, there were reports that he would be seeking a move away from the club but this bit of news puts his future in a whole new light. The North London club’s next game is against Eintracht Frankfurt on Thursday and we could finally see Xhaka make a return to the squad.
If he does it make it to the match, it will be interesting to see the way in which he is received by the fans. For the sake of the club and the player himself, it would be better off if the fans did not resort to booing him.
On the pitch, he is able to offer the Gunners some semblance of control in the middle of the field. Without his passing range, Arsenal find it difficult to dictate the tempo even with midfielders such as Matteo Guendouzi and Lucas Torreira.
It is unfortunate that his relationship with the fans has deteriorated to this point but if he is able to showcase his skills on the pitch, that can change very soon.
Arsenal are in a real rut at the moment with many results not going their way. At times like this, it is important to get all the help that the squad needs and leaving someone as experienced as Xhaka from the squad is not really helping the team.
The Gunners need to pick up their form if they are to make a comeback to the Champions League and it will be nice if the Swiss is there to help the club do this.
