Arsenal: At Least Granit Xhaka Has Clear Path Now

Arsenal’s rough patch with Granit Xhaka has finally been explained and while it’s still a bit muddled, at least his path is now clear.

I was losing my mind on a daily basis when Arsene Wenger wasn’t starting Granit Xhaka. And let’s be honest, I’m prepared to do it again when Santi Cazorla comes back. Arsenal bought Xhaka for a reason and that control and composure – definitely two of the big reasons – has been on major display during his time here.

Related: 10 Things We Learned About Arsenal In 2016

But that isn’t what Arsene Wenger was looking for. What was Le Prof looking for?

“He contributes a lot defensively as well – that’s what I did not see at the start,” he said, as quoted by the Metro. ” I just want him to focus on being strong defensively, and give the quality of his pass to the team and the rest will come along.”

There we have it. Xhaka wasn’t being played because he wasn’t playing enough defense. Which is borderline ironic because the consensus was that it was because he wasn’t doing enough going forward.

What also makes it curious is the fact that Wenger has stated over and over in the past that he doesn’t want a straight defensive midfielder. Yet he wants Xhaka to be primarily defensive and to improve in that specific area.

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

I’m still confused, because it was Xhaka’s defense that I saw as his main strength. His ability to win the ball back, snuff out attacks and get the ball moving in the opposite direction was usually on point with a few hiccups.

If there was one area I thought he needed work in, as just mentioned, it was moving the ball forward. He was a bit slow in the transition and that cost Arsenal on the counter several times.

Whatever the reasoning, whatever the cause or the goal, at least we know a few things from this. First of all, we know that Xhaka is headed in the right direction, as Wenger has said this himself. As long as he keeps doing what he’s doing, he will continue to play.

Secondly, we know what to look for. If Xhaka defends solidly, like he has been doing (he has, hasn’t he?), then we will see with our own eyes the progress he is making and know that Wenger must be happy with him and his performance.

Next: Arsenal's 30 Greatest Players Ever

I’m ready to leave the Xhaka drama behind. He is too talented and too useful to have all these question marks surrounding him.