This archive report was first published on 2 January 2020.
Granit Xhaka's future at Arsenal has been a topic of discussion in recent weeks, but coach Mikel Arteta has put an end to speculation by confirming that the Swiss midfielder will stay at the club.
On Wednesday, Xhaka produced a gritty performance to help Arsenal secure a 2-0 win over Manchester United, their first victory in five matches and a boost to their 10th-place standing in the league.
Arteta praised Xhaka's performance, saying, 'I think he's going to stay. I really like him. If we get him on board he can be a tremendous player for the football club.'
Arteta's comments come after Xhaka was in the firing line earlier in the season following a heated reaction to fans booing him when he was substituted in a 2-2 draw against Crystal Palace in October.
However, Arteta has now confirmed that Xhaka has told him he wants to remain in north London, and the coach is pleased to have him on board.
Arteta's first home match as coach ended in a 2-1 loss to Chelsea on Sunday, but he was pleased to get off the mark and praised his players for their reaction against United.
He said, 'I am very pleased with the performance and even more with the result. I said to the players what you transmit to the fans is up to you.'
Arteta also thanked the fans for their energy and support, saying, 'I want to say thank you so much to the fans because of the energy they brought.'
