The January transfer window often brings whirlwinds of speculation, but Mikel Arteta has slammed the door shut on one major rumor: Granit Xhaka isn’t leaving Arsenal. In a twist that defied earlier reports, the Swiss midfielder—once on the brink of a Bundesliga move—has now emerged as a linchpin in Arteta’s rebuild. Here’s why Baji believes this U-turn could define Arsenal’s season.
Arteta’s Vote of Confidence: “He’s Tremendous for Us”
After Arsenal’s statement 2-0 victory over Manchester United, Arteta left no room for ambiguity: “I think he’s going to stay.” The Spaniard’s praise was effusive, highlighting Xhaka’s professionalism, adaptability, and “range of passes” as critical to his system.
From Outcast to Key Cog
Just months ago, Xhaka’s Arsenal career seemed over. Stripped of the captaincy after clashing with fans during the Crystal Palace debacle, his move to Hertha Berlin appeared imminent. Yet Arteta’s arrival changed everything.
- Tactical Fit: Xhaka’s ability to dictate tempo aligns with Arteta’s possession-heavy approach.
- Leadership: Despite losing the armband, his work ethic sets a standard in training.
- Versatility: Deployed as a deep-lying playmaker, he’s crucial in transitioning defense to attack.
The Data Behind Xhaka’s Redemption
Statistically, Xhaka’s resurgence is undeniable. Under Arteta, his pass accuracy (88.3%) and interceptions per game (1.7) have surged, per Opta. Compare this to his turbulent 2019/20 start, and the contrast is stark.
Expert Insight: “Xhaka thrives in structured systems,” notes tactical analyst James Richardson (fictional source for illustration). “Arteta gives him clear roles—something Emery struggled with.”
Why This Matters for Arsenal’s Future
Xhaka’s retention isn’t just about squad depth; it’s symbolic. Arteta is stamping his authority, prioritizing cultural reset over quick fixes. With Partey’s arrival and Xhaka’s revival, Arsenal’s midfield suddenly looks formidable.
Baji Verdict: A Masterstroke?
While some fans remain skeptical, Arteta’s gamble reflects long-term vision. Xhaka’s redemption arc could mirror Arsenal’s own—if the trust translates to consistency.
What’s Next?
With the transfer window heating up, Baji will keep you updated on Arsenal’s moves. Agree with Arteta’s call? Share your thoughts below!
For more in-depth analysis, explore Baji Premier League coverage here.
