Arsenal were eliminated from the Carabao Cup on November 1 after a lackluster performance against West Ham United. This was followed by another disappointing away day against Newcastle United at St. James’ Park. The Magpies defeated their Premier League opponents 1-0 owing to a contentious Anthony Gordon goal in the 64th minute.
Following the results, the former Arsenal striker identified crucial players who were absent for the north Londoners. He stressed Xhaka’s importance from last season, along with Ghana international Thomas Partey, who is sidelined due to injury.
Arsenal great Ian Wright says the Gunners are missing Granit Xhaka, who was moved to Bayer Leverkusen in the summer for £22 million. Wright’s remarks came shortly after Mikel Arteta’s team suffered two consecutive defeats in all competitions.
I think Thomas Partey’s injury has been a massive blow to us. Missing Xhaka, the way Xhaka was and how he helped him. I think we are missing that dynamic in the game.
Granit Xhaka, who scored goals from an advanced midfield position previous season, was also regarded as a group leader. Before leaving the Emirates Stadium, the Swiss international has seven goals and seven assists in the 2022-23 league season.
In the summer of 2016, he joined Arsenal from Borussia Monchengladbach for £30 million. Since then, Xhaka has made 297 appearances for them in all competitions, scoring 23 goals and providing 29 assists. During his time in north London, he won two FA Cups and other accolades.
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