Arsenal legend feels sorry for Granit Xhaka

Granit Xhaka. (Photo: AFP)


Premier League side Arsenal’s legendary footballer Patrick Vieira has admitted that he feels sorry for Granit Xhaka who was recently removed as captain by Arsenal boss Unai Emery after he was involved in an angry confrontation with the fans who were reportedly abusing him.

Vieira, who is currently in charge of Nice in Ligue 1, stated that the Swiss superstar deserves respect and explained how former footballers have blamed Xhaka for the entire situation.

“I feel sorry for him because he [was] the captain and he’s going through a really difficult period and really difficult time at Arsenal,” Vieira was quoted as saying by Sky Sports.

“I think we have to remind ourselves that he’s achieved a lot since he’s at Arsenal and he deserves a lot of respect.

“When you’re a player and don’t perform the way you expect, you get frustrated about yourself. And sometimes you say things or do things you regret. I find it really difficult a lot of ex-footballers have jumped on him and being really negative towards him – it’s too too easy.

“I know how good he is and he will come through this difficult period because he’s a strong man, he’s a good player. And he will show how good he is,” he added.