Granit Xhaka Optimistic About Arsenal Future

Granit Xhaka is prepared to fight for his Arsenal future after getting stripped off the captain’s armband this past week.

The Swiss midfielder collided with the Gunners fans in the 1-1 draw against Crystal Palace last month.

Since then, he is no longer the chosen leader and has also lost his place in Unai Emery’s first team.

“You can be sure that I’ll keep fighting and putting myself out there in every training session,” he said. “I feel that last week has been dealt with and I’m ready. I’m doing very well again, I’ve trained well this week and am looking forward to my next assignments.”

“When my shirt number lit up on the fourth official’s panel and our own fans broke into gleeful jubilation, that hit me very hard and really upset me. It was very hurtful and frustrating,” Xhaka added.

“I can’t understand a reaction like that even now, especially the vehemence of it and the extreme hostility directed against me. As far back as I can remember, fans have always been part of my sport. And right from the start, I’ve had a lot of respect for the fans’ enthusiasm and the hardships they endure to support us players.”