WHY XHAKA LEAVING ARSENAL

A journey is best measured by the milestones it passes along the way. The journey of Granit Xhaka at the Emirates Stadium has been full of plenty of such signposts, some of them indicating exhilarating peaks and others the lows that come with the territory of being a professional footballer. Now, it seems, his journey in North London might be nearing an end.

Reasons for Xhaka’s Departure

The Swiss midfielder has been a polarizing figure in Arsenal's recent history. Some fans have admired his tenacity and leadership, while others have criticized his rashness and occasional lack of discipline. This season, Xhaka has fallen out of favor with manager Mikel Arteta, who has preferred the likes of Thomas Partey, Granit Xhaka, and Albert Sambi Lokonga in central midfield.

1. Loss of Manager’s Trust

Granit Xhaka's relationship with Mikel Arteta reached a breaking point in October 2021 when the Swiss midfielder was sent off for a reckless challenge against Liverpool. Arteta was said to be furious with Xhaka's lack of discipline, and the incident reportedly led to a heated exchange between the pair. This was the most high-profile incident in what has been a difficult relationship between Arteta and Xhaka.

2. Difficulty Adapting to Arteta’s System

Mikel Arteta has implemented a possession-based, high-pressing style of play at Arsenal, which requires his midfielders to be comfortable on the ball and able to move the ball quickly. Xhaka has struggled to adapt to this system, and he has often been criticized for his lack of mobility and passing range.

3. Fan Frustration

Granit Xhaka has been a controversial figure among Arsenal fans throughout his time at the club. Some fans have appreciated his passion and commitment, while others have been critical of his rashness and lack of discipline. In recent seasons, Xhaka has been the target of booing and jeering from his own fans, which has made it difficult for him to focus on his football.

Will Granit Find Fulfillment at AS Roma?

The Italian capital club has been linked with a move for Xhaka for some time now, and it seems that a deal could finally be on the cards. Roma is said to be willing to pay around €25 million for the Swiss international, and Xhaka is reportedly keen on the move.

There are several reasons why Xhaka might find fulfillment at Roma. First, he would be reunited with his former manager, Jose Mourinho, who signed him for Arsenal in 2016. Mourinho is a big admirer of Xhaka, and he is likely to give the midfielder a key role in his team.

Second, Roma is a club with a rich history and a passionate fan base. Xhaka would be playing in front of sell-out crowds every week, and he would have the opportunity to compete for major trophies.

Third, Roma is a city with a vibrant culture and a relaxed lifestyle. Xhaka would be able to enjoy a more relaxed lifestyle in Rome, which could help him to focus on his football.

Arsenal’s Future Without Xhaka

Xhaka's departure would leave a big hole in Arsenal's midfield. He is a strong tackler, a good passer, and a vocal leader. However, the Gunners have plenty of other options in central midfield, including Partey, Elneny, Lokonga, Maitland-Niles, and Odegaard.

Partey, in particular, has been in excellent form this season, and he is likely to become even more influential in Arsenal's midfield following Xhaka's departure. The Ghanaian is a complete midfielder who can do it all – he can tackle, pass, shoot, and score goals.

1. Will Xhaka’s departure weaken Arsenal?

Granit Xhaka has been a key player for Arsenal in recent seasons, and his departure will undoubtedly weaken the team. However, the Gunners have plenty of other options in central midfield, and they should be able to cope without him.

2. Who will replace Xhaka in Arsenal’s midfield?

Mikel Arteta has several options to replace Xhaka in central midfield. Thomas Partey is the most likely candidate, but the Ghanian has been injury-prone in the past. Albert Sambi Lokonga is another option, but he is still relatively inexperienced. Arteta could also choose to sign a new midfielder in the summer transfer window.

3. Is Xhaka making the right decision to leave Arsenal?

Only Granit Xhaka can answer that question. However, it is clear that he has fallen out of favor with Mikel Arteta, and he is unlikely to get regular playing time at the Emirates Stadium. A move to Roma could give him a fresh start and a chance to revive his career.

4. What are the implications of Xhaka’s departure for Arsenal’s future?

Xhaka's departure will leave a big hole in Arsenal's midfield, but the Gunners have plenty of other options in that position. The club is likely to sign a new midfielder in the summer transfer window, and they should be able to cope without Xhaka.

5. What are the implications of Xhaka’s departure for Roma’s future?

Xhaka's arrival at Roma would be a major coup for the Italian club. He is a proven performer at the highest level, and he would add some much-needed steel to Roma's midfield. Xhaka could help Roma to challenge for major trophies, and he could also help to improve the club's performances in Europe.