Arsenal: Jose Mourinho eyes shock Granit Xhaka transfer

Arsenal Should Sell Granit Xhaka This Summer

In short, yes. Yes he should be sold.

What will have convinced Xhaka to stay back in late 2019? What could Arteta have said to prevent him departing? It’s speculation, but there is every likelihood that Xhaka succumbed to his manager’s wishes with the promise of a summer departure this season.

Xhaka has never fully won over the fans and will have never felt loved. It’s hard for anyone to grow affectionate with their surroundings if they feeling isn’t mutual. That isn’t the case internally where the Swiss is a cherished member of the squad, one of the leaders and is highly thought of by all the managers he’s worked under at Arsenal.

Losing Xhaka wouldn’t be easily fixed. As a leader, a profile and an injury-free machine he adds real value to the side. Throughout this season his importance has never been more noted than during his absences. Arsenal are an unstable mess without him: they lack foundation and stability, control and command.

But they can do better.

The ceiling at Arsenal is exemplified through Xhaka. He is the best they have to play in his position, and until they raise that bar they may never take the next step. Whatever step that may be won’t be a straightforward one, as replacing his overall package isn’t an overnight fix.

It is a stage of rebuilding, though. Total remodeling. And that requires restructuring around the invaluable young core Arteta possesses. Links to the likes of Yves Bissouma wouldn’t be as strong as they are if Xhaka were to stay. There is no chance in hell he’d suffice with a squad role.

A Xhaka and Thomas Partey midfield pivot has proven itself to be very good on occasion. That doesn’t mean the club should settle for ‘very good’. Everyone welcomes ‘excellent’.

Continued…