Arsenal: Complete 2018/19 season player ratings

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LONDON, ENGLAND – MAY 05: Granit Xhaka of Arsenal during the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Brighton & Hove Albion at Emirates Stadium on May 05, 2019 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Catherine Ivill/Getty Images) /

Granit Xhaka – 7

This was the year. After two turbulent years at the club, if Granit Xhaka was to ever fully deliver on his £35 million price tag, this was the season that he needed to substantially step up his performances. And, sadly, although he did take strides forward, clearly benefitting from Emery’s tactics, the same mistakes riddled his game, especially later in the year.

To give Xhaka credit, he was one of the better performers in the squad. This was also undoubtedly his best season. His passing was crisper and more progressive, he did not dally on the ball as much, and the extra legs of Lucas Torreira really helped hide his lacking athleticism. That is why he is graded fairly nicely. He was better this season than most would accept.

But is he good enough to anchor a rebuild upon? I would argue not. So yes, Xhaka did take steps forward this season, but his lack of defensive awareness, his lethargic, sluggish movement, and his over-dependence on his left foot, again and ultimately, let him down.