Granit Xhaka's remarkable Arsenal redemption | Football Focus

In 2019, Granit Xhaka's relationship with the Arsenal fans reached rock-bottom. Nobody could have foreseen that he'd still be at the club in 2022 as captain, a firm fan-favourite and with his own chant. So, how did he turn it around? Let the man himself explain...
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Granit Xhaka's remarkable Arsenal redemption | Football Focus

[@GIBBO4182]

Shows what kind of man he is, and his strength of character. Upmost respect for not taking the easy way out, and asking for a transfer

[@qwerttzizzi]

It was actually his dad who told him to stay..

[@jnxs1234]

@@qwerttzizzi ultimately its his decision.

[@sirairili1570]

@@qwerttzizzi Thats not what he said though. He clearly stated that the coach Mike convinced him.

[@benedictharrison2819]

it was obvious from the start that Xhaka is an emotional and passionate player. Sometimes this can be a detriment to a player but when it is harnessed to be a positive for drive and determination it is something money can't buy. Xhaka has always been a technically gifted player, strong with both feet, great vision, great tactical awareness, his only weakness was he was sometimes slow and clumsy in defence (although his defensive intelligence and positioning is underrated) but more important is his passion for football - this is something that you can't train. Very happy to have him playing for Arsenal

[@lacucaracha2192]

i'd sell him for a bag of chips

[@tommy.h]

@@lacucaracha2192 you're not worth that bag of chips

[@Emanuel-bm9vn]

@@lacucaracha2192 those chips better be worth $200 million 😘

[@ilill3520]

Spot on👏👏👏👏👏👏

[@tofuman2439]

@@Emanuel-bm9vn too cheap, i'd prefer 750 million

[@kennedytobias960]

Thank you Arteta for letting him stay and love Granit Xhaka❤

[@somebloke757]

He’s always been the most natural leader at the club, even now, you can see who the real captain on the field is, so glad he has found the respect he has always deserved. He’s going to play 300+ games for this club, that’s significant.

[@c4gob00m]

I get what you’re saying, but I feel saying “the real captain” is disrespectful to Ødegaard. You can be a captain without being loud. Ødegaard is the tactician, where Granit is the enforcer. He may not wear the armband, but alongside Martin they’re both really our captains

[@containedhurricane]

Wenger, Emery and Ljungberg must've known about Xhaka's passion, work rate, aerial ability, leadership and positional play, but they couldn't figure out the best tactics to minimize his weakness in tight spaces and at tackling. Arteta was cleverer at maximizing Xhaka's strengths in the left mezzala position, as he did by converting Saka to an RW

[@yao052]

He reminds me of Daley Blind (who plays for my other favorite team Ajax), not in terms of playing style but similar situation. Here in the Netherlands, Blind is always criticised and people never understood why he kept being picked but every manager he ever dealt with always put him in the starting 11.

[@containedhurricane]

@@yao052 I think Ten Hag's positional tactics required a left-footed playmaker like Blind, which is similar to Xhaka at Arsenal under four managers

[@TwistedSoul2002]

He’s also improved as a player- it’s not just the exact same player from 2016 whose slotted in to the more advance position. You argue that playing deeper for those years gave him more positional awareness and is part of the reason we’re seeing this version of Xhaka.

[@patchh15]

Arteta was given the time to try different things, Xhaka was struggling just the same collecting reds under him for two years. And this comes from a fan of Xhaka.

[@roycelim9822]

Everyone treating arteta like a god now, don't get me wrong he's changed the team so much from the past years but remember when xhaka was used as a LB? Lmao. Partey is the reason why xhaka's good now

[@shettyboy]

Liverpool fan here. Love the redemption story here. Also kudos to the man management from arteta.

[@c4gob00m]

Honestly every new manager should do that. Sit every player down individual and be straight and honest with them what they want. You’re in my future, you’re going on loan, you’re not wanted anymore. Build respect from the get go and set your plan in motion, exactly what it seems Arteta did

[@ajengsriharyanti4695]

we love you Xhaka, thank you for staying with us ❤

[@Nkz_09]

This guy deserves all the respect his getting atm. Instead of running away he stayed, faced his demons and proved everybody wrong. The fact that the fans made him feel a certain way and he still feels like he owes something back to them is credit to his mentality and team spirit. If he can learn and hit new levels whilst the world was against him imagine what levels he could hit with the whole fan base behind him. He showed his love for the club now lets show our love to a dedicated player.

[@learnmore9485]

I think a lot of people don’t understand that Some culture some people have different values different standards. Xhaka is Albanian, family, self respect, self- esteem. Protection is part of their culture if you take that away from him in front of his child and wife, of course there would be re actions and consequences. Glad that he gets all the love and appreciation from the fans since he is playing on the right position. Glad he met Arteta, look like they both have Similar approach to things in life and are not fake people.

[@looplst]

Well put

[@myGseven]

👏 👏

[@azizkozmaqi9395]

It is fun and joy to watch Arsenal games again. Everyone is playing great and with heart but there is one guy who is everywhere in the field. He is GRANIT XHAKA. Most of the time he is in the midfield where he dominates but very fast he can adapt and join the defence and play as a great deffender or join the attack players, deliver magnifcient passes with his left foot and create chances or even score goals like he did in the last twoo games

[@leonm.yamija5236]

Xhaka ... This name will never vanish at arsenal fc... the xhaka arsenal story is so encouraging to young arsenal OK players who might find themselves in his situation.. we love you xhaka 🔥🔥🔥🔥❤️

[@octopus8420]

Young Arsenal OK players. You know you're talking about the best Bundesliga central midfielder who you paid 40 million for, right?

[@drowningfish9719]

I wanted him out but getting to know him and the strength of his character, what a man and what a player. I’m proud he’s part of my team ❤️

[@ayushapoorva]

What a comeback this guy had...fall from face but back again and coming back stronger than ever!

[@visianwatson1047]

Never a average player may not be the best but he’s better than most smart also

[@joshuagonzales6207]

Yeah, Xhaka’s mentality is one to admire. He quite literally had to earn the fan’s respect in one of the most hardest ways possible. Can only imagine what he dealt with during that rough patch. These type of stories just make you want to never give up on life and just to keep on pursuing. Grande Xhaka!

[@yao052]

He has a tremendous mentality and incredible resilience. It takes balls for him to comeback from where he was when most people (including me) couldn't wait to cheer when he left the club. I remember when he used to piss me off. But he proved everyone wrong.

[@thefootballhub_089]

Xhaka your redemption story is truly remarkable, been a big fan of yours.

[@DavidSmith-gq3mv]

I have always loved Xhaka. It's a U turn in terms of relationship with fans but real ones know he was always quality, always one of our best players! Arsenal legend

[@Vic2rycryptoquests]

You're a man Granit Xhaka..I have a lot to learn from you...This is total transformation...

[@DGenerationX1311]

I’ll be honest I could understand his frustration back in 2019 and I remember thinking atleast we have someone who visibly cares. Glad he stayed!

[@ordro107]

So true

[@atosishpradhan3402]

Redemption arc complete 🔥🔥 what a guy ❤️

[@andrewmensah1904]

I'll be totally honest, after the Crystal Palace debacle I was one of those who never wanted to see him in an Arsenal shirt again, and I'm only full of admiration for the guy...he started to turn my head midway through last season. He deserves nothing but the best!!!

[@serene1915]

A real captain and leader. WE’VE GOT GRANIT XHAKAAAA🎉❤

[@craigbailey79]

What a player he has been this season

[@nelsonwleh7916]

Granit has personality and he keeps going forward regardless of such intense situation.

[@donbismo]

Nothing but respect for this guy, his love and passion for the club is unthinkable and to make such a great turnaround requires a strong mentality from a strong person

[@TheBigBen247]

Already an Arsenal legend!!! Love this guy, what a leader.

[@baariyowabdallebaariyowabd6193]

Granite we love you ❤ keep shining the legend

[@manlike4674]

What a guy! Massive character needed to come back the way he did… hè is definately our most consistent player right now, also credit to the interviewer, very relaxed, never interrupts and insightfull questions, keep it up !

[@hayesy9693]

Absolute fairy tale, I dispised this man when the palace game happened. The fact that he's not only fought his way back into the side but genuinely found the form of his life and is so important to us, nothing but love for Granit, a true gunner, one of us, 100% should be captain, the way he rallys the troops is just inspirational

[@frantisekvtelensky820]

If anyone ever doubted Mikel's man management, just look how he helped Granit. Incredible story! :) COYG

[@CareerModeConnoisseur]

Incredible turn around, and that’s what makes his relationship now with The Arsenal so much better. Hard work pays off keep going granit like a fine wine as you said 🔴⚪️

[@dhruvkashyap8024]

You can't teach someone to be a leader. Xhaxa is a natural leader. He leads from the front and with courage and passion.

[@nelsonwleh7916]

A genuine Leader 💪 💪

[@clearissues9744]

Truth is, I get so mad at Xhaka when he does the silly stuff, because I believed in him so much. Welcome back big X, God bless and cover you for the rest of your career. 🙏

[@Kvth14]

One thing no one can discredit him is his professionalism, no matter how good or not good he is he always gives his all and play with his heart.

[@gunnersworldwide5628]

Grainy Xhaka ! What a player , what makes a man is the ability to pick yourself up when you fall and try again . He cares about Arsenal and he loves football for him it’s not only about the big pay cheque but l see a man who loves what he does . I have great respect for him 🎉❤. It’s true he is maturing with age like red wine 🍷.proud gunner here .

[@MrThewillows]

What a player. Such credit he deserves. Focus and determination goes a long way

[@Arsenal4Ever2019]

Love this guy. If it wasn't for that redemption curve, he wouldn't be where he is today. He went from an average player to a journey of becoming an Arsenal legend.

[@filly1up]

I love the turnaround this man had, and im so glad we didnt get s midfielder to replace him so that he could shine. Credit to arteta for seeing how much xhaka could offer.

[@giovanniebrady966]

We love you Xhaka 💪🏾, can’t wait to see you lift the Prem for us.

[@chrissturgess4323]

Very motivational...a lot of players could learn from this man..thinking he will be a great coach too .

[@automotivel3501]

TBH, I did not rate Xhaka at first. He was I think a marked man, by FA Ref's. However after watching "All or Nothing" on Prime, I realised just how passionate he (Xhaka) is about Arsenal. He has been one of the best players in last two years. The move forward, is the key this season.

[@mouthymonk3978]

Granit, you've been a warrior through out. I want you to in my club even after you're done playing professional football, even as a coach like Per but brother, you've thoroughly impressed me with your character because you're literally the personification of a true gunner. ❤️

[@gooner1ization]

Remember players are human beings and we all make mistakes. This is how you bounce back. Granit, you deserve the love you're getting. You Sir are class.

[@narsenal5833]

I was one calling for him to go but my minds well and truly changed! True professional and definitely would struggle without him now. Keep going granit! COYG!

[@abdiyogaprasetyo825]

I loved granit. This man is really strong mentality. We are really blessed to had him in the team.

[@Chango98]

His mentality is truly elite. Academy players should aspire to have mental strength like his.

[@merchaninomerchanino303]

love how this interview felt organically like a conversation. loved it.

[@loricounts7972]

Great interview, I've always been a fan, didn't waiver. He's like the Phoenix, he has proven many wrong and is showing those naysayers that you can't count him out. Props to Arteta for seeing what many couldn't. I think he will make a great coach, I hope he stays with the club for his next chapter, his next endeavor. Big ups, Granit Xhaka 💪 💪 💪

[@DonKopArkadio]

Fair play, I have to admit I doubted he could come back. I was sure he would have to leave. I’m delighted for him now. He seems like a good person and so driven.

[@neversililo718]

Our best player this season, best come 👌👌👌

[@JustDeacon]

I have fallen in love with Xhaka. Never thought I would say that. COYG.

[@cannoncompshd7709]

He is an amazing player, and the toxicity from fans to their own players needs to stop. A similar thing happened to Eboue, and it's good that Xhaka didn't leave like Eboue did

[@quabsentertainment4413]

Huge respect for this guy. I’m Arsenal fan and at the time I was disappointed and from his behaviour at the time every Arsenal fan wanted him out and rightly so. But what an incredible turn around. He’s always show the commitment, strength and the desire to do well for the club and I’m glad we the fans are seeing and enjoying with appreciate. May it continue and wishing the team a great success. Hopefully win the league. Come on Gunners……..❤

[@rexallahroxy507]

Wow this is really a good story to share, so happy for this guy hopefully everything turns out good for him

[@lcoconstruction2660]

A true warrior and Daddy of this team, mistakes were made on both sides but he and the fans came to the realisation it's because we all care! We respect him and he respects us! Bv the way his song "Glad all over " is by Dave Clarke from the Dave Clark 5, rabid Tottenham fan!

[@aryanpugilist]

Xhaka has been my favourite player at Arsenal since he arrived! Passion, strength and leadership! He is integral to the Arsenal team and it is no surprise that he is on top right now. He can pass the ball so well, he makes him self available in the middle, instructs players where to be, scores bangers from outside the box, makes strong tackles. Without him in the team, things suddenly don't look so great. He also seems to be having a great impact on Partey, which once again is integral to the teams performance, for the new midfielders need to settle and be helped do so. Great player! I only hope he can help Arsenal to win the league now!

[@cabdullefarax2337]

What an absolute fascinating character he is let’s keep on proving the doubters and haters wrong granit💪🏾❤️

[@danieladams4561]

Grant, thank you for believing that us as fans could be something better too. I think a lot of us fans had our own lesson to learn. 🙏

[@jsim5475]

I finally understand why all those managers stuck with you .. not just because of your abilitys and capabilities but for what kind of man you are your humility and determination and now we are all beginning to see that.. Big respect and thank granit and thank you arteta.. and if the unimaginable happens and we are marching out to player a title winning match you should wear the arm band

[@fattahtouhid]

We love you granit ❤

[@ollyoneill4511]

So happy we finally back our players man it feels so good to be an Arsenal fan hope they see how much we love this club

[@deep_singh83]

Class act and deserves nothing less then praise.

[@Beingapolymath]

What a player. Loved him since day 1 at Arsenal. But I felt it there was no way back after that fateful evening. He’s shown remarkable character to come back and become one of the best players in the team. You don’t need an armband to show your leadership on and off the pitch. I hope to see him retire with us and given his style of play and position, he could be playing at the top well after 35 if he can keep up his fitness.

[@reubenjarvis]

Granit Xhaka. We’ve got. ❤️🙏🏼

[@billyedwards8756]

Best midfielder arsenal have had since gilberto, yh gets sent off but sometimes passion gets the better of any human being but it's better that he seemes to have cut that out of he's game this season looks different class. Great player in my opinion

[@nikelombambo]

You're right.. Because Cesc Fabregas played golf and Santi Cazorla played Rugby..

[@vas1513]

@@nikelombambo 🤣😂😂😂 I was confused too.. Samir Nasri also has something to say, rosicky, Hleb. Thomas partey too im pretty sure.

[@ashtonalmond9024]

Come on Billy, Cesc is one of the best midfielders of the last 20 years

[@ybnalex9628]

@@nikelombambo can’t tell you how much I miss Santi

[@reisssato902]

@@nikelombambo Classic 😂😂

[@temitopekareem1222]

Arsenal fans look at his mistakes,dey never look at his passion and u can't over look a passionate player even if the team isn't playing well...thanks for staying granit xhaka

[@AbhikSensational]

I am so so happy for Granit! People who go through tough patches and come out with smile! Keepers! ❤🧿

[@niall1257]

The way he smiles when he says Mikel 1:42

[@moc9893]

Solid guy he comes across very well, I can see why every manager stuck with him.

[@jamesblake44]

What a man. My king

[@DonKopArkadio]

The interviewer is excellent, very composed and relaxed vibe

[@robinlove6981]

I will admit I was never a xhaka lover and wanted him gone. I was tired of his red cards, his mistakes but arteta was clever he knew that the only way back was a new role in the team and my God has he done well and I'm so happy arteta convinced him it was the right decision. After six years I can finally say I'm happy he is in our team

[@Connectiontv0223]

I love Granit he is so real and have no fear in him he believes he can play well against any team and he wants around him to have a fighting spirit I see him making a good coach 😊😊😊

[@ekkerainer]

he is actually turning into one of my favourite players and definitely characters in the team

[@emilybenn3729]

Personally I never wanted him to leave, but to see the strength in his character, rather than leave, he wanted to prove a point, and it’s clear that was down to his love for our club. Almost reminiscent of Tony Adams (I know you’ll slate me 😅) but just in how direct he is in his passion for our club 🔴⚪️🔴⚪️

[@alo95ful]

A real role model ❤

[@officialjapjchannel5180]

Always love Granit’s interview

[@tampabay554]

Go Granit! We love you ..

[@andib2022]

I know Mikel asked him to stay and it works, but I can also see Xhaka is growing to be a leader with more mature approach. When there is a communication, there is a connection.

[@za.307]

Master stroke by Artata playing him further forward since we don't have to rely on him to tackle, we have Partey for that, or recycle the play, we have Odeegard who is quicker with his ball movement. That leaves Granit to mop up and make runs into the box. It takes out the temptation for him to make rash challenges.

[@saintjr9430]

What a player❤

[@junssnow6415]

love this man so much..thank you Granit

[@guleit89]

He’s a fighter in short and when other players don’t show passion he’s looses control coz he’s doesn’t give up mashalah

[@cobbysparks9891]

When you hear the phrase from Zero to Hero this is what they are talking about. Comeback of all comebacks 💪🏾

[@ozzking2006]

When he lifts the trophy for arsenal I feel it will be one of the best moments of my life. I'm so proud of him. My captain COYG

[@beruangkutubalbino576]

Cant wait when he become a coach or staff. What a mentality he had

[@obamtl]

We love you Granit!

[@reinaldiabdillah4980]

Xhaka u very strong.. i love it..we love you xhaka

[@moseskanyantamusonda2466]

Much respect 🙌 to Granit

[@tagbonwogu2683]

I like this guy. On behalf of all Arsenal Fans. We are truly sorry. We just want the best and to see Arsenal football Club back where it belongs.

[@SONG-lw2sg]

Love you, Granit! love your mentality.

[@charlesodinaka9257]

I love everything about him before and even more now.

[@bengates857]

Xhaka is on next level right not but that Bellerín Xhaka link up was cold 🎉

[@hanadyare9028]

We got granid xhaka we love you ❤️

[@imme9927]

Xhaka will be my favourite player with charisma, character and strong personality, really felt his presence on the pitch in this season

[@danish5332]

I hope he stays and become a legend at Arsenal

[@dagimsolomon8507]

What a guy 💪❤

[@amelo_rain]

what a man🔥

[@dhruvkashyap8024]

The man is a well oiled German machine. He literally plays every match for Arsenal, plays for entire 90 mins. He is an integral part of the team.

[@Shqiptar6]

Albanian machine

[@freshlizzard9603]

Human machine 🇦🇱🤝🇨🇭

[@maxmuaz]

it is a long shot but really hope Arsenal wins the Premier League this season and Arsene will be present during the ceremony and Xhaka wins the Arsenal Player of the Year. Used to hate him but boy he won me over. We've Got...Granit Xhaka We've Got...Granit Xhaka🎵🎶

[@SnowMan-qp7gc]

We love you XHAKA we do ... we love you XHAKA we do ... Oh XHAKA we love you ... BOOM XHAKA LAKA ... AN EXAMPLE OF NEVER GIVE UP IN LIFE NO MATTER WHAT THE SITUATION IS 🤔

[@zanderzone8196]

This man stands by himself! What a Warrior!!!