Mikel Arteta Reflects on Granit Xhaka Arsenal Exit Ahead of Premier League Reunion

Mikel Arteta opens up on Granit Xhaka Arsenal departure, praising the midfielder’s leadership and legacy ahead of their Premier League reunion with Sunderland.

Mikel Arteta has been candid about Granit Xhaka departure from Arsenal as the team gets ready to play Sunderland this weekend. He has shared his sincere thoughts on the Swiss midfielder’s impact and legacy at the Emirates.

Xhaka’s Arsenal journey was filled with highs and lows. Since joining from Borussia Mönchengladbach in 2016, he experienced fan criticism, disciplinary issues, and periods of doubt. But under Arteta’s guidance, the Swiss international rediscovered his best form, becoming a vital figure in Arsenal’s midfield.

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He played a key role in helping the Gunners win the 2020 FA Cup, Arteta’s first major trophy as manager, and later became one of the dressing room’s most respected leaders.

Speaking ahead of Sunderland clash, Arteta recalled:

“I loved every minute we spent together. When I joined, he was in a special moment of his life, and he made me a better coach.”

The tribute highlighted not just Xhaka’s on-pitch influence but also his personal growth and professional bond with Arteta.

The Move to Bayer Leverkusen

In the summer of 2023, Xhaka made the difficult decision to leave Arsenal for Bayer Leverkusen. Arteta admitted the departure was emotional, saying it was “not easy” to part with such a key figure.

However, both parties agreed it was the right time for Xhaka to take on a new challenge in the Bundesliga. Arteta noted that the move was handled with mutual respect and understanding, reflecting the maturity of their relationship.

Two years later, in one of the surprise stories of the 2025 transfer window, Xhaka returned to English football — this time with Sunderland. The newly promoted side have made an impressive start under Regis Le Bris, sitting fourth in the Premier League after ten games.

Arteta praised Sunderland’s ambition and hailed Xhaka’s return as “one of the best summer signings,” crediting his experience and leadership for Sunderland’s strong early form.

A Respectful Reunion Awaits

As Arsenal travel to the Stadium of Light, the fixture will reunite two men who shared a powerful journey together. Arteta’s reflections reveal not only admiration for Xhaka’s professionalism but also a deep appreciation for his human qualities.

“He gave everything for this club,” Arteta said. “I’ll always be grateful for what he brought to the team, both as a player and as a person.”

For Arteta and Arsenal fans alike, the reunion will be a source of pride and reflection, serving as a reminder of Xhaka’s transformation from divisive figure to beloved leader, as well as the bond that defined his Arsenal legacy.

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