Arsenal fans still love Granit Xhaka.
It has been three years since the Swiss international left the Emirates Stadium, but he still receives a warm welcome every time he comes back.
That relationship was in jeopardy recently, when reports revealed that Xhaka had agreed to join Chelsea from Sunderland in this window.
Now, according to Keith Downie on X, the former Arsenal captain has rejected a move to the Blues and has decided to continue his stay at Sunderland.
That has brought a lot of joy to Gooners.
Arsenal fans, what was your instant reaction when you heard Granit Xhaka wants to join Chelsea?
Arsenal fans react as Granit Xhaka rejects Chelsea
Joining Chelsea at the age of 33 to team up with Xabi Alonso in a season where the Blues will play just one game a week would’ve been a tempting opportunity.
However, after initial willingness, Xhaka has decided to stay put, and Arsenal fans are just as happy as Sunderland supporters.
One tweeted: “Once a Gunner, always a Gunner.”
Another wrote: “He saw our love comments wishing him well wherever he goes and decided he wasn’t going to betray us.”
“Fair play, Granit Xhaka, he’s a class act,” said another.
“Hahahaha, Chelsea in the mud,” commented another.
“My captain. Always knew he wouldn’t join them lot,” tweeted another.
Granit Xhaka snubbing Chelsea is good news for Arsenal
Chelsea have appointed Alonso as their new manager in a season where they will play just one game every week.
The Blues have no European football to worry about, which means they will have all the time in the world to get used to Alonso’s ways and go to the next level.
If Chelsea were able to add a leader like Xhaka to their side, that process would’ve become significantly easier, and they would likely have challenged Arsenal in the Premier League.
However, with Xhaka no longer an option, the Gunners know Chelsea will be a smaller threat.
Receive a digest of our best Arsenal content each week direct to your mailbox
