Arsenal coach Mikel Arteta has praised Granit Xhaka, saying the midfielder helped him become a better manager. Arteta shared these thoughts before Arsenal’s match with Sunderland, where Xhaka now plays as team captain.
Xhaka, who is now 33 and plays for Sunderland, had a mixed experience during his seven years at Arsenal. There were difficult moments, including losing the team captaincy after a dispute with fans in 2019. Arteta arrived shortly after and worked to improve the relationship with Xhaka.
Arteta said he enjoyed working with Xhaka, who went on to play an important role for the team. He said Xhaka responded positively to support, and that their time together improved both him and the club. Arteta added that he is grateful to Xhaka for his contributions.
Since returning to the Premier League with Sunderland, Xhaka has become one of their key players. Sunderland is currently fourth in the league, and Arteta praised the club for their progress.
Arsenal is at the top of the Premier League and faces Sunderland next. Arteta said the team is focused and knows it must keep improving to achieve its goals. He dismissed talk that the season’s title is already decided and expressed confidence in Arsenal’s strengths.
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