Arsenal: Granit Xhaka consistently silences his doubters

It was another game in which Granit Xhaka silenced his doubters, as he scored a sumptuous free kick for Arsenal against Newcastle.

Granit Xhaka has gained a massive crowd of critics during his time with Arsenal. It’s easy to see why the English fans hate on him, because he brings over the Swiss grit and determination which they struggle to find in their own players. His rough nature is easy to hate, but it’s strange to see the hatred come from a nation who pride themselves on rough football.

Either way, it’s not rocket science to see the talent in Xhaka. He’s part of a system which makes him an easy target, but it should be the system that’s hated, not the player. When he’s partnered with Lucas Torreira for example, we can see just how amazing he is with no defensive onus.

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I’ve said it time and time again, he’s not a defensive player, so judging his ability on that alone is like judging a fish on it’s ability to climb a tree.

Xhaka excels in the passing department. Whether it be short lay-offs, or passes across field, you can guarantee Xhaka is at the heart of them. Every balanced midfield needs a player who is willing to dictate the play, and he’s Arsenal’s solution.

I mentioned this in my player ratings yesterday, but Xhaka should be partnered by Torreira and Ramsey in the midfield. The three complement each other perfectly, almost like it’s meant to be. Torreira deals with the defensive side, while Xhaka dictates play and Ramsey poses himself as an attacking threat.

Under Unai Emery, the English media are about to see just how great Xhaka is. They won’t have the defensive side to fall back on either, and Emery knows this. I’m a firm believer that everything happens for a reason, and things are finally starting to fall into place for the Swiss international.

Remember, never judge a fish on it’s ability to climb a tree.