Mikel Arteta maintains a mysterious stance regarding Granit Xhaka’s future at Arsenal, indicating that tough decisions need to be made in the best interest of the club. The Gunners ended their season on a high note, securing a resounding 5-0 victory over Wolves, with contributions from Xhaka, Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Jesus, and Jakub Kiwior. Despite finishing the campaign just five points behind Manchester City, Xhaka’s departure seems inevitable, as the Swiss midfielder has been linked with a £15 million move to Bayer Leverkusen this summer.
Prior to the match, Arteta refrained from confirming Xhaka’s departure, but fans already seemed resigned to the fact, as they displayed signs at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday expressing gratitude for his service. In the 75th minute of the game, Xhaka was substituted and received a standing ovation from the home crowd. Making his way to the dugout, he appeared visibly emotional, adding to the speculation that this might indeed be his final appearance in an Arsenal shirt.
Following the game, when Arsenal’s players performed their customary lap of appreciation, Xhaka lagged behind the rest of the squad, taking a slow stroll accompanied by his family. This gesture seemed to convey a farewell sentiment, as if he was absorbing the atmosphere of the Emirates Stadium for the last time.
During his post-match press conference, Arteta remained evasive when asked about Xhaka’s potential departure, expressing surprise at the suggestion. However, in a subsequent interview with Match of the Day, he spoke about Xhaka in the past tense, hinting at the impending exit and indicating that he was willing to make difficult decisions in the coming months.
Arteta stated, “He did what he needed to do and he has done it the whole season. He has been magnificent for us… I had the opportunity to say thank you. He is a player who had a special story and he has been integral. It is part of my job to make the decisions that are best for the club. His story is really nice.”
With Arsenal aiming to strengthen their midfield this summer, West Ham captain Declan Rice has emerged as their primary target. However, acquiring Rice is likely to come at a hefty price, potentially exceeding £100 million. Additionally, Brighton’s Moises Caicedo has been linked as a possible alternative.
To generate the necessary funds, Arsenal will need to offload players, and Xhaka could be among those casualties. Nonetheless, Arteta holds Xhaka in high regard and will undoubtedly feel his absence if the midfielder departs. When questioned about the fans’ reaction to Xhaka, Arteta acknowledged the applause, stating, “Well deserved, he’s had an incredible season… He’s been exceptional, he’s been a key part of the team and the team’s success, and I am so happy that everybody is appreciating what he has done.”
As Arsenal prepares for a crucial summer transfer window, the uncertainty surrounding Xhaka’s future remains. The decision-making process lies in Arteta’s hands as he navigates the path that will best serve the club’s interests, bidding farewell to a player with a unique story and significant contributions to Arsenal’s journey.
