Published 10:30 IST, November 1st 2019
Arsenal captain Xhaka issues apology to fans after recent bust-up
After the confrontation between the Arsenal captain and the supporters, Xhaka has finally released a statement on Instagram issuing an apology to the fans.
Arsenal captain Granit Xhaka has finally issued an apology on to the supporters for the aggressive gestures he made when he was subbed off during Arsenal's draw against Crystal Palace last week. After almost an entire week, where things appeared to be worse than ever, the captain is finally looking to mend his relationship with the fans.
Arsenal news: Granit Xhaka's reaches boiling point
Arsenal's issues with defending once again cost them as they blew a two-goal lead at home to Crystal Palace on Sunday. During the game, Unai Emery opted to substitute Granit Xhaka off, which in turn prompted cheers by the home supporters. As a result, Xhaka cupped his ears and showed vile gestures towards the Arsenal fans who booed him at the Emirates Stadium. He stormed towards the tunnel and pulled off his shirt.
Arsenal: Unai Emery demands Xhaka apology
Unai Emery admitted Xhaka was wrong to react that way and refused to confirm if he would remain skipper going forward. Xhaka has indeed held three meetings with Emery since the incident but the club is looking to put the player's welfare ahead of any quick decision over his future. According to the British media, Arsenal will offer to counsel Granit Xhaka after the Gunners captain found himself in trouble for swearing at his own fans. Emery also added that Granit Xhaka has been left "devastated" by the confrontation with Arsenal supporters on Sunday but still should issue an apology.
Granit Xhaka has finally issued a statement apologising to the supporters with an aim to build mutual respect back. Xhaka has admitted that he “reached boiling point” after being targeted by Arsenal supporters during the draw and blamed his angry response on the abuse he had received, including physical threats and taunts targetted to his wife and daughter.
It took exactly a month for Granit Xhaka to go from being named Arsenal captain to being booed off the field. The 27-year-old has attempted nearly 500 more passes this season more than any other Arsenal player, ranks third for tackles and interceptions, and was given the captaincy after winning a vote among the first-team squad. But despite all of this, he has always had a fractured relationship with the fans which finally aggravated last Sunday. Arsenal would hope to get over the issue as soon as possible and look to improve their on-field performance rather than focus on things which matter the least.
Updated 12:30 IST, November 1st 2019