Arsenal must look away from Granit Xhaka and cut ties with the midfielder this summer, according to former player Kevin Campbell.
After the Gunners missed out on Champions League football last season, Campbell believes a major shakeup is needed at the club, with players like Xhaka long overdue for an exit.
Having joined Arsenal from Borussia Monchengladbach in 2016, the Swiss international is one of the club’s most senior players but his overall time at the club has been clouded by much controversy.
Xhaka joined Arsenal with much reputation on his shoulders and immediately showed his quality, characterized by long-range shooting, which saw some brilliant goals from distance scored by the midfielder.
However, his unnecessary tackles and yellow-cards, which often led to his dismissal on several occasions, slowly saw his reputation turn sour in the eyes of Arsenal fans.
It seemed like it was game over for him at the club after a famous incident with the fans. In October 2019, the then-captain was booed off the pitch by supporters during a 2-2 draw against Crystal Palace. He tore off his shirt and stormed down the tunnel.
Xhaka managed to turn his situation around since then but he has never really found his footing. Several whispers now believe it is time for the 29-year-old to call it quits with the club.
Xhaka has overstayed his welcome at Arsenal, says Campbell
Arsenal are set for a summer of rebuilding, with major additions set to be made. The Gunners are close to announcing Fabio Viera, while deals for Gabriel Jesus and Raphinha remain at advanced stages.
Speaking on the Gunners approach for next season, Kevin Campbell also believes Arsenal need a change in midfield and an exit for Xhaka should be first on the priority list.
“I think we will see a parting of the ways soon,” he told Football Insider. “Look, Xhaka had a very good season last season. But at the end of the day, Arsenal didn’t get it done.
“The midfield needs to be revamped. There needs to be more speed and goals injected into that midfield.
“The reliance on Granit Xhaka that Arsenal had has to go. There has to be enough midfielders there who can do a job.
“This is probably the last time we could get money for Xhaka realistically. He is an international player, a good player but the time has come. If an opportunity comes along I think they should move him on and get younger legs in there.”
In fairness, Xhaka is already 29 and has two years remaining on his Arsenal contract. There is a slim chance he would renew at the club and it does make sense to sell the Swiss international now rather than lose him for nothing.
