Arsenal midfielder Granit Xhaka has been described as ‘just nuts’.
The Gunners star is quite possibly one of the most divisive players to ever represent the North London club.
Although a lot of Arsenal supporters love him, many more loathe him.
Well, maybe that’s a tad strong actually, but he certainly isn’t Mr Popular for quite a lot of supporters.
And today was a prime reason why.
Arsenal were leading Manchester City 1-0 at the Emirates and seemingly in full control.
But the Switzerland international fouled Bernardo Silva in the box and referee Stuart Atwell ultimately awarded a penalty after consulting a pitchside monitor, with Riyad Mahrez scoring.
Costing the Gunners goals is nothing new to the former Borussia Monchengladbach star, who cost £30 million in 2016.
Here’s what Andy Gray said to BeIN Sport about him:
“Certainly Xhaka at 30 plus has not got the excuse of youth and naivety. He’s just nuts at times, he really is. You can’t rely on him. He’s given away a stupid penalty today with really poor defending.”
Balance
Gray says you can’t rely on Xhaka but really, Arsenal fans know his importance.
It’s genuinely no coincidence that as soon as he returned to full fitness in November, the Gunners have improved tremendously.
Despite losing today, Arsenal, who also had Gabriel Magalhaes sent off, were the better side for a lot of the game.
And remember, City are the Premier League champions.
Yes, Xhaka is erratic at the best of times, but he doesn’t get anywhere near the credit he deserves when things are going well.
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