Former hated Arsenal star sends message to fans and club after loss to Bayern

Former Arsenal midfield stalwart Granit Xhaka has thrown his support behind his old club despite their recent UEFA Champions League quarter-final exit at the hands of Bayern Munich. The Gunners, who currently sit second in the Premier League, were narrowly edged out 3-2 on aggregate by the German giants, leaving them to focus solely on domestic success.

Speaking to the media, Xhaka acknowledged the disappointment of the Champions League defeat but urged the team and fans to keep their heads up: “This is part of the game, I think it was 10 or 11 games unbeaten. When you lose one game, it doesn’t mean you lost everything already.”

NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND – MAY 07: Granit Xhaka of Arsenal gestures 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)

The Swiss international, who departed Arsenal in the summer after seven years at the club, remains a keen observer and staunch supporter. He emphasized the importance of the remaining Premier League fixtures, highlighting the title race that sees Arsenal locked in a tight battle with Manchester City and Liverpool: “There are six games left in the Premier League and there is still a big chance to get the Premier League title.”

Xhaka’s belief in his former teammates is unwavering: “I wish them all the best for sure because I am still in contact with the staff and players and also still watching the games.” He further expressed his hope for Arsenal to lift the Premier League trophy: “I hope Arsenal will win the league because the team, the staff and the football club as well deserve to win trophies. They are very close this year as well like it was last year but football is about small details. I hope they can do it.”

With a crucial clash against Wolverhampton Wanderers looming, Arsenal will need to channel Xhaka’s optimism and determination as they aim to secure their first Premier League title since 2004.

Xhaka currently plays for the Bundesliga club Bayer Leverkusen, which he joined in 2023. He helped the club win their first-ever league title in his debut season. On February 23, 2024, he scored his first goal for Leverkusen in a 2-1 victory against Mainz 05. On April 14, Xhaka scored in Leverkusen’s 5-0 win over Werder Bremen to secure the club’s first German championship.