Switzerland coach Vladimir Petković has again jumped to the defence of Granit Xhaka as he continues to face criticism at Arsenal.
The Swiss international finds himself once again under increased scrutiny at the Emirates after a red card in the 1-0 defeat to Burnley earlier this month.
That red card was his third since arriving at Arsenal from Borussia Mönchengladbach in 2016 and has led to further questions about his attitude, particularly following the incident last season that saw him clashing with the clubs fans.
The debate about his temperament has one that has regularly reared its ugly head during his time with the Gunners.
When that has happened, he has often been defended by those who know him best, such as Petković, who is keen to do so again.
“Granit knows that it was unnecessary and unfortunate,” he told Blick.
“But that’s the way it is in life, when things don’t go well, things like that happen. Granit is an emotional type – opponents know that too and may provoke him.
“Either way: I am convinced that he will draw the right conclusions from this case too and will come back even stronger. He’ll react differently next time.
“As Vlado Petkovic, I can only say: Granit knows that I am always at his side. He has my complete support. I am always there for him, as a person and a friend.”
While Xhaka continues to play a role under Mikel Arteta despite the questions surrounding him, that has not stopped questions about his future.
Many feel that it would be best for Arsenal to part ways with the midfielder, who, aside from attitude issues, has never lived up to his £40.5m price tag.
He’s subsequently been linked with a return to Germany, where he played for Mönchengladbach for four years after arriving from Basel in Switzerland.
Petković is refusing to be drawn on such speculation, though, insisting Xhaka will have to make that choice with those closest to him.
“I don’t want to go that far,” he added.
“These are the things Granit, his family and management need to know best and decide. Sure, a lot has happened to Granit in Arsenal.
“And in football you’re always looking for someone to blame.
“Then it is easier to approach strong personalities – you also do that as a trainer to set an example. And as a journalist anyway.”
