Why Xhaka Left Arsenal

Arsenal's Granit Xhaka's departure in 2022 marked the end of a controversial yet impactful era for the midfielder at the Emirates. His tumultuous journey in North London was filled with moments of brilliance, discipline, and criticism, and his eventual exit was met with mixed reactions from fans and pundits alike.

A Rocky Start: Early Struggles and Acclimatization

Xhaka arrived at Arsenal in the summer of 2016 amidst high expectations. He was seen as a dynamic and promising midfielder with a reputation for tenacious tackling and precise passing. However, his first season in England was marred by inconsistency and a high-profile incident where he was sent off against Swansea City for a reckless challenge.

Settling In: Finding His Place in the Team

Despite the initial setbacks, Xhaka gradually found his footing in the Arsenal midfield. He formed a solid partnership with Aaron Ramsey, providing balance and protection to the backline while contributing to the attack with his long-range shooting and set-piece delivery. His performances earned him a new contract in 2017, a sign of the club's faith in his abilities.

Captaincy and the Weight of Expectations

In 2019, Xhaka was handed the Arsenal captain's armband following the departure of Laurent Koscielny. This decision was met with mixed reactions, given his tendency for rash challenges and occasional loss of composure on the field. While some saw it as a testament to his leadership qualities, others questioned whether he possessed the temperament and maturity to lead the team.

A Contentious Figure: Love-Hate Relationship with the Fans

Xhaka's tenure as captain was marked by controversy and division among the Arsenal faithful. His passionate and committed style of play endeared him to some fans, while his occasional lapses in discipline and perceived lack of consistency drew criticism from others. A particularly infamous incident occurred in October 2019 when Xhaka was booed off the pitch by his own fans after being substituted during a match against Crystal Palace. This incident highlighted the growing discontent among supporters and ultimately contributed to his eventual departure.

A New Chapter: Seeking Fresh Start at Roma

In the summer of 2021, Xhaka's time at Arsenal came to an end when he joined Serie A side Roma for a fee of around €18 million. The move was seen as a fresh start for both the player and the club, with Xhaka eager to prove his worth in a new environment.

Adapting to Italian Football: A Resurgence in Form

Xhaka's transition to Italian football was remarkably smooth. He quickly established himself as a key player in José Mourinho's Roma side, showcasing his tenacity in midfield, his ability to dictate the tempo of the game, and his knack for scoring crucial goals. His performances earned praise from fans and pundits alike, with many noting his newfound discipline and maturity on the pitch.

The Legacy of Granit Xhaka at Arsenal

Granit Xhaka's departure from Arsenal marked the end of an era for the club. His five-year spell at the Emirates was a tumultuous one, filled with both highs and lows. While his time in North London was often overshadowed by controversy, there is no denying his undeniable contribution to the team. His tenacity, his leadership, and his occasional moments of brilliance will be remembered by Arsenal fans for years to come.

FAQs on Granit Xhaka’s Departure from Arsenal

1. What were the main reasons behind Xhaka’s departure from Arsenal?

Xhaka's departure from Arsenal was likely influenced by a combination of factors, including his contentious relationship with the fans, his desire for a fresh start, and Arsenal's need to raise funds for new signings.

2. How successful was Xhaka during his time at Arsenal?

Xhaka made 220 appearances for Arsenal, scoring 13 goals. He was part of the Arsenal squad that won the FA Cup in 2017 and 2020. However, his time at the club was also marred by controversy and inconsistency.

3. How has Xhaka performed since joining Roma?

Xhaka has been a key player for Roma since joining the club in 2021. He has made over 50 appearances for the Italian side, scoring four goals. He has helped Roma win the UEFA Europa Conference League in 2022.

4. What is Xhaka’s current contract status?

Xhaka signed a four-year contract with Roma in 2021. His current contract expires in June 2025.

5. Has Xhaka been capped for Switzerland?

Yes, Xhaka has been capped 108 times for Switzerland, scoring 12 goals. He has represented Switzerland at four major tournaments: the 2014 FIFA World Cup, the 2016 UEFA European Championship, the 2018 FIFA World Cup, and the 2020 UEFA European Championship.