Earlier this week, Granit Xhaka left Arsenal and completed a move to Bayer Leverkusen.
The midfielder, who was a regular under Mikel Arteta, spent seven years at the Emirates, during which time he won the FA Cup twice. During an interview with Keystone-SDA, relayed by SRF, he’s explained how happy he was.
“There are a lot of positive memories. Personally, I and my family spent seven wonderful years in London,” he said.
“I’ve never played for a foreign club for so long. My graduation here, my last game, all the news – wow, that gives me goosebumps.”
The Switzerland international endured a tough spell during Unai Emery’s final months at Arsenal in the 2019/20 season.
“There are always tough periods. Every day was demanding. It’s just part of the business, you have to be able to endure it,” Xhaka explained about his rough patch at Arsenal.
The 30-year-old’s situation improved after Arteta was appointed as Emery’s successor in December 2019.
He made 36 league starts last season for Arsenal, who came close to snatching the title from Manchester City. Xhaka has explained the role the current Gunners manager had in his development.
Earlier claims had stated the 30-year-old wanted a move away from the Premier League side because his family wasn’t happy in London. Xhaka has now dismissed this suggestion when asked if he had hesitated to leave Arteta’s side in this window.
“There was speculation everywhere that my wife was no longer happy in England. That is not at all true. The fact is that as a person I am always interested in new challenges,” he added.
“After seven years, the time has come for something completely new. The league is not new, but the club is. During the talks with Simon Rolfes [sporting director] and Xabi Alonso, I felt that the long-term project at Leverkusen was worthwhile and that it was 100% in line with me.”
His decision to join the Bundesliga side didn’t please journalist Christian Finkbeiner, who feels it’s a step down.
When asked what convinced him to join Bayer Leverkusen, Xhaka said: “This club has a big name in Germany and Europe. I’m convinced by the idea, I’m convinced by how the club is run. Good players have always played here. I like peace and order.
“With Alonso, there’s a manager who is responsible who represents and implements exactly these values. It stands for good and reasonable work. And of course: The length of the contract gives me security – I’m not someone who likes to play poker.”
Xhaka signed a five-year deal at Bayer Leverkusen.
