Former Arsenal Star Granit Xhaka Denies Wife’s Involvement in Transfer to Bayer Leverkusen
Former Arsenal midfielder Granit Xhaka has dismissed claims that his wife played a role in his departure from the Emirates Stadium this summer. The 30-year-old recently completed a £21.5 million move to German side Bayer Leverkusen, ending his seven-year spell at Arsenal.
Xhaka, who arrived at Arsenal from Borussia Monchengladbach in 2016, made 297 appearances for the club during his time in north London. Despite having a tumultuous relationship with the Gunners’ fans, he left on a positive note, four years after an incident where he told the supporters to “f*** off”.
German news outlet Sport Bild had suggested that Xhaka’s wife, Leonita, played a crucial role in his return to Germany, citing their two daughters as a reason for the move. However, Xhaka has vehemently denied these rumors, stating that he joined Bayer Leverkusen due to their project.
In an interview with Keystone-SDA, Xhaka said, “There was speculation everywhere that my wife was no longer happy in England. That is not at all true. The fact is that as a person I am always interested in new challenges. After seven years, the time has come for something completely new. The league is not new, but the club is.”
Xhaka further explained that during his discussions with Bayer Leverkusen’s sporting director Simon Rolfes and former player Xabi Alonso, he felt that the long-term project at the club aligned perfectly with his ambitions.
The Swiss international also praised his former Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta, whom he credited with saving his career at the club after being stripped of the captaincy following a clash with the fans. Xhaka described Arteta as a coach who understands an incredible amount of football and sees the game with completely different eyes. He expressed his gratitude towards Arteta for helping Arsenal achieve their goal of qualifying for the Champions League.
Xhaka’s move to Bayer Leverkusen marks a return to Germany, where he previously played in the Bundesliga before joining Arsenal. The midfielder has returned with his family, emphasizing that his wife’s happiness was not a factor in the decision.
During his time at Arsenal, Xhaka scored 23 goals in 297 games and won two FA Cups. His departure from the club signifies the end of an era and the start of a new chapter in his career.
As Xhaka settles into his new surroundings at Bayer Leverkusen, he will be hoping to make a significant impact and contribute to the club’s success. With his experience and talent, he has the potential to become a key player for the German side.
The move also presents Xhaka with an opportunity to prove himself once again and showcase his abilities on a different stage. Playing in the Bundesliga will provide him with new challenges and a chance to further develop as a player.
As for Arsenal, they will need to find a suitable replacement for Xhaka in midfield. His departure leaves a void that will need to be filled, and the Gunners will be looking to strengthen their squad in order to remain competitive in both domestic and European competitions.
In conclusion, Granit Xhaka’s transfer from Arsenal to Bayer Leverkusen has been surrounded by speculation regarding his wife’s involvement. However, Xhaka has categorically denied these claims, stating that he joined Leverkusen due to their project and his desire for a new challenge. As he embarks on this new chapter in his career, Xhaka will be aiming to make a positive impact at his new club while Arsenal will be focused on finding a suitable replacement for their former star midfielder.