Granit Xhaka directed a harsh remark at Arsenal after experiencing a “special” beginning at Bayer Leverkusen.
The Swiss international couldn’t have wished for a better start at Leverkusen, securing the domestic double – the Bundesliga and the DFB-Pokal – in his first season.
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Under the guidance of Xabi Alonso, Xhaka became a key player in midfield and has now asserted that his move from the Gunners has been a positive step in his career.
Speaking to German outlet Bild, Xhaka said: “For me, it was not a step back, but rather two steps forward. Because I had the exact feeling, during discussions with the coach and with Simon Rolfes, that something special could happen here in the next few years.”
The reigning German champions are finding it difficult to retain Jonathan Tah as Bayern Munich has been tempting the defender with a lucrative transfer offer.
The German international has reportedly declined an extension offer from Leverkusen, but the transfer remains uncertain as Bayern has not met the asking price.
Xhaka is putting in every effort to persuade Tah to resist Bayern’s allure and stay at Bay Arena.
“Everyone knows that Bayern is a very big club. And big clubs want the biggest players. That should also be an honour for Jonathan,” he said.
“We know what he means to our team. He also knows where Leverkusen stands today. He also knows that we won the championship last year. That is his decision.
“We would like to keep Jona with us. He makes a great impression, not at all thinking about anything else. He is very focused. Just like I got to know him last season. Of course, we all hope that he stays with us.”
Xhaka’s recent remarks are unlikely to be well-received by the Gooners, and the former Arsenal player might face a hostile reception at the Emirates when he visits north London for a friendly on August 7.
He has “completely recovered” from a torn abductor muscle in his left thigh sustained during the European Championship and is aiming for more success in the upcoming season.
“We want even more. Not just this year, but of course we want to be at the top in the coming years,” the Leverkusen star added in another clear warning to Bayern.
