Arteta speaks out on Granit Xhaka leaving Arsenal in the summer

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has addressed the rumors surrounding midfielder Granit Xhaka’s future at the club. Reports have suggested that the Swiss international could leave Arsenal at the end of the season, but Arteta has emphasized Xhaka’s importance to the team.

Xhaka has been a key player for Arsenal this season, scoring five goals and providing seven assists in all competitions. He has also been a regular starter under Arteta, playing in nearly every game since the Spaniard took over as manager.

Speaking to Xhaka, Arteta praised the midfielder’s contribution to the club and acknowledged his importance to the squad.

“The clarity is he’s a player that has played [nearly] every minute since I’ve been the manager. He’s an incredibly respected figure at the club. He has a great story around him with what he has achieved at the club, going through very tough moments. He’s a key and very important part of [our squad]. Whatever happens is something we certainly won’t discuss now,” Arteta said telling Arsenal Player.

NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND – MAY 07: Mikel Arteta, Manager of Arsenal, speaks with Granit Xhaka of Arsenal during the Premier League match between Newcastle United and Arsenal FC at St. James Park on May 07, 2023 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images)

Xhaka’s future at Arsenal has been the subject of much speculation in recent weeks, with reports suggesting that he could be sold as per his request to go and try out new places. However, Arteta’s comments suggest that the midfielder remains an important part of his plans for the future.

Xhaka joined Arsenal from Borussia Monchengladbach in 2016 and has since made over 200 appearances for the club. He has been a divisive figure among Arsenal fans, with some criticizing his performances and others praising his leadership and work rate.

Despite this, Xhaka has remained a regular starter under Arteta and has played a key role in Arsenal’s push for the Premier League title this season. The gunners are currently second on the Premier League table and they’ve only got two league games remaining.

Xhaka will be hoping to play a crucial role in those games, as he looks to help Arsenal end the season on a high and secure their place in Europe for next season. Whether he will remain at the club beyond this season remains to be seen, but Arteta’s comments suggest that he is still highly valued by the Arsenal hierarchy.