Granit Xhaka was able to pull off quite the turnaround at Arsenal and actually managed to leave a hero, something few would have expected back in October 2019.
The game in question hardly needs an introduction as the infamous spat between Xhaka and the Arsenal fanbase will live long in the memory.
Crystal Palace at home, Arsenal have thrown away a 2-0 lead and are now desperately chasing a winner against the Eagles.
Unai Emery decided to substitute then-captain Xhaka for an emerging Bukayo Saka with 30 minutes to play.
Xhaka was clearly frustrated and trudged off the pitch incredibly slowly, only agitating an already-angry fanbase after seeing that 2-0 lead disappear.
Arsenal supporters began booing Xhaka as he left the pitch, sparking an angry reaction from the Swiss star as he left the pitch.
These situations usually end one way.
There is usually no way back for a player after they have clashed with the fans, especially in the position of captain.
Xhaka completely turned his Arsenal career around though, becoming a fan favourite once again before leaving for Bayer Leverkusen in an emotional exit.
Arsenal fans may now love Xhaka, but one Gunners supporter not have the midfielder on his Christmas card list this year…
Granit Xhaka and Morten Hjulmand clash
Xhaka is currently on international duty with Switzerland and lined up against Denmark on Saturday evening.
The game ended in a 0-0 draw and few will really remember this particular international friendly in years to come.
There was one flashpoint in the second half though as Xhaka clashed with Denmark midfielder Morten Hjulmand.
Xhaka won a free kick but with the ball underneath his body, Hjulmand gave it – and Xhaka – a little kick.
Xhaka and Hjulmand were then at each other’s throats and had to be pulled away from each other as an otherwise dour friendly had its one talking point.
Former Arsenal man Xhaka was furious, telling Ekstra Bladet that Hjulmand showed him a lack of respect.
Xhaka believes that Hjulmand’s actions have no part in modern football but especially not in a friendly game, slamming the Sporting star.
“It was a clear free kick and I have the ball. He kicks me. It’s about respect,” said Xhaka. “My opinion is that you don’t do that in modern football. Not in a friendly match, but not in a qualifying match either,” he added.
Morten Hjulmand loves Arsenal
The irony in this whole situation is that Hjulmand is absolutely Arsenal-mad and will have spent years cheering on Xhaka from afar.
Hjulmand told Gazzetta Dello Sport in 2022 that he is ‘crazy’ about the Premier League and specifically Arsenal.
The former Lecce man even has an Arsenal tattoo on his left shoulder, showing his undying love for the Gunners.
Hjulmand may have been a fan of Xhaka in his Arsenal days, but there may need to be some apologies in order for the pair to be on good terms moving forward.
The post 'It's about respect': Granit Xhaka angry after clash with international midfielder who has an Arsenal tattoo appeared first on HITC.
from HITC https://ift.tt/1BHfz4v
No comments: