This archive report was first published on 1 November 2019.
Granit Xhaka, Arsenal's beleaguered captain, will not feature in the team's Premier League game against Wolves on Saturday, according to manager Unai Emery.
Emery made the announcement on Thursday, citing the need for Xhaka to recover from the emotional fallout of a recent incident where he was jeered by fans and responded with a gesture.
Speaking to the press, Emery explained that Xhaka had apologized to the fans and was now focused on the match. However, he did not confirm whether Xhaka would remain as the club captain.
Emery also praised the performances of Mesut Ozil and Gabriel Martinelli in Arsenal's midweek Carabao Cup exit at Anfield, stating that they could 'help' the team on Saturday.
He emphasized the importance of re-establishing a connection between the team and the supporters, arguing that a proportion of the reaction on social media is not grounded in 'reality.'
Emery's comments come after a week where the relationship between the team and the fans was fractured.
