Arsenal: Granit Xhaka shows glimpse of his greatness

Granit Xhaka had his best performance for Arsenal in their FA Cup final win over Chelsea, giving us all a glimpse of his greatness.

The FA Cup final win over Chelsea, while a wonderful victory in and of itself, was made infinitely better by the performance that accompanied the trophy. Arsenal were not passive or disinterested, as they have been in recent weeks despite results suggesting otherwise. Instead, they were busy and relentless, unravelling a Chelsea side that have prided themselves on their resilience and organisation.

Related Story: Arsenal Vs Chelsea: 5 things we learned

It was a brilliant all-round display from the Gunners, with many individuals playing at the peak of their powers. Praise has been gushing for Per Mertesacker, Mesut Ozil and, of course, Alexis Sanchez. However, a man who is deserving or recognition for his influence on the game who is seemingly not currently garnering the same share of the credit is Granit Xhaka.

More from Pain in the Arsenal

• 3 observations from Arsenal’s victory at Goodison Park
• 3 standout players from 1-0 victory over Everton
• 3 positives & negatives from Goodison Park victory
• Arsenal vs PSV preview: Prediction, team news & lineups
• 3 talking points from Arsenal’s victory at Goodison Park

It has undoubtedly been a turbulent and inconsistent first season for the £35 million acquisition. With his roles and his talents somewhat conflated and confused early in the season, he was criticised for poor performances when a lack of understanding was the real culprit. That is not to excuse Xhaka of his rash tackling, over-aggressive style and immobility. Rather, it provides a little context regarding his early struggles.

But as the season has progressed, especially since Arsene Wenger implemented the 3-4-3 system to close the year, and as Xhaka’s role has become more defined and entrenched, the Swiss international has shown what he is capable and why Wenger saw it fit to make such an investment on him last summer.

The positives that he has shown in recent weeks were on full display in the 2-1 win over Chelsea. He patrolled the midfield beautifully. His touch was crisp, always looking to spin into space, his passing range was phenomenal, pinging passes short and long, looking forward with every opportunity, and his defensive work was disciplined and refrained.

There was one moment midway through the second half where he and Cesc Fabregas battled for a 50:50 challenge. Not only did Xhaka win the tackle, he was able to twist his body in between the ball and Fabregas, before shielding it, as he span past the Chelsea midfielder, and clipping it to the feet of a teammate. It was a minute piece of play that had little effect on the game. But it was emblematic of Xhaka’s midfield mastery and dominance.

Next: Arsenal: Complete 2016/17 player ratings

There are still many improvements to be made. His lack of dynamism, especially in close quarters, is a concern, as is his discipline record. But against Chelsea, Xhaka put in his best display since moving to North London, and showed us all a glimpse of his greatness.