If Granit Xhaka leaves Sunderland to join Chelsea this summer, it wouldn’t only be Sunderland fans left disappointed. Arsenal fans will be just as frustrated if the former Arsenal captain joins the Blues.
Out of nowhere, reports emerged on Saturday afternoon that Xhaka was a target for Chelsea. There have even been some suggestions that Xhaka has agreed personal terms and only a fee needs to be sorted.
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Xhaka has starred since returning to English football. A shock signing for Sunderland 12 months ago, the Switzerland star has been the heartbeat of Sunderland’s midfield as the Black Cats secured Europe.
But Xhaka was also the heartbeat of a Bayer Leverkusen side that went unbeaten for the 2023-24 season and secured the German title. He was a key part of a team galvanised by new Chelsea boss Xabi Alonso.
Arsenal fans make their feelings known about Granit Xhaka
Xhaka joined Arsenal in 2016 from Gladbach and would go on to play 297 times in all competitions for the Gunners. The North London side remains the club he has played the most games for in his career.
He might not have endeared himself to Arsenal supporters throughout his tenure at The Emirates, but he ended his spell on good terms. His biggest success, however, certainly came under Alonso in Germany.
Now, with the news that Xhaka could be the latest player to play for both Arsenal and Chelsea, Gunners fans have responded on social media. Understandably, many are hopeful a move does not materialise.
It is clear that Arsenal fans will be both gutted and angry if Xhaka wears the blue of Chelsea. One said that a potential move to Stamford Bridge is “disgusting”, disrespecting both Arsenal and Sunderland.
One tried to address Xhaka personally, urging “don’t do this” and to “turn back”. As things stand, reports say Chelsea have agreed personal terms with Xhaka but Sunderland do not want to sell the midfielder.
Xhaka restored his reputation with Arsenal fans towards the end of his tenure in North London, but moving to Chelsea would “completely undo” that, another said. “Don’t you dare,” said another supporter.
How many players have played for both clubs in the last 20 years?
The reaction of Arsenal fans is perhaps surprising, given the number of players who have played for both over the last 20 years. Ashley Cole, Olivier Giroud, William Gallas, and plenty more feature on the list.
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A total of 16 players have swapped clubs over the years, either directly or having played for other teams in between. More recently, Kai Havertz, Kepa Arrizabalaga, and Noni Madueke are among those 16.
Lassana Diarra, Nicolas Anelka, Olivier Giroud, Petr Cech, Raheem Sterling, Yossi Benayoun, Cesc Fabregas, David Luiz, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, and Willian have also featured for both London giants.
Xhaka’s move to West London will annoy Arsenal fans and perhaps, rightly so. But the left-footed ace would significantly improve Chelsea, simply by his own ability, but also by raising Chelsea’s standards.
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