Arsenal: The only three veterans this club needs to keep

2. Granit Xhaka

Xhaka is by no means one of the old guard, but his experience is that of a 30-year-old. He’s been around the international footballing spectrum, he’s competed on the highest levels, he’s been through a ton with this club, served as captain, had a falling out, been convinced to stay, the list goes on. Xhaka has seen it all.

Which gives him the kind of veteran perspective that this club needs to have on the pitch. Even if he never takes the armband again, he sets a tremendous example for the young players with his accountability and his positive presence. He isn’t afraid to own up to his mistakes and he will always address any questions about the team.

Plus, we have yet to see the best of Xhaka. He has had to deal with a shifting cast of characters in the middle of the pitch, but rarely has he had a consistent cast of characters to build his own individual game upon.

Rumor has it that Mikel Arteta is starting to build up the midfield with the likes of Thomas Partey, and no one benefits from that more than Xhaka.

On to No. 1.