Granit Xhaka has finally broke silence following an angry bust up with Arsenal fans during his substitution against Crystal Palace on Sunday and things like this touch you.
Arsenal manager Unai Emery urged Granit to issue an apology earlier this week but remained tight lipped to confirm if he would retain the armband.
Five days after the incident, Granit Xhaka has now responded after having sat out the Carabao Cup defeat to Liverpool yesterday.
In a statement, Xhaka wrote: “After taking some time to reflect on what happened on Sunday afternoon, I would like to give you an explanation rather than just a quick response.
“The scenes that took place around my substitution have moved me deeply. I love this club and always give 100% on and off the pitch.
“My feeling of not being understood by fans, and repeated abusive comments at matches and in social media over the last weeks and months have me deeply.
“People have said things like “We will break your legs”, “Kill your wife” and “Wish that your daughter gets cancer”.
“That has stirred me up and I reached boiling point when I felt the rejection in the stadium on Sunday.
“In this situation, I let myself be carried away and reacted in a way that disrespected the group of fans that support our club, our team and myself with positive energy.
“That has not been my intention and I’m sorry if that’s what people thought.
“My wish is that we get back to a place of mutual respect, remembering why we fell in love with this game in the first place.
“Let’s move forward positively together. Granit.”
It is all about respect. Supporters should respect the players who are playing for their club, especially captain who is vetoed by this team. Xhaka was team’s choice, he didn’t make this decision, he just accepted what was offered to him like any other player would do, it’s an honorable position ! Xhaka is a good player but sadly he is criticized way too much, even for decision he did not make.
Arsenal play Wolves on Saturday, though Xhaka’s participation is still in the air.
