Arteta has made his most bizarre decision yet as Arsenal manager, fans should be raging – TBR View

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Granit Xhaka signing a new contract with Arsenal has left many supporters stumped. Especially based on the events leading up to this decision from the club.

It is easy to forget that barely even a month ago, there were reports that the Swiss international was close to joining AS Roma. Fabrizio Romano had even reported that personal terms have been agreed between Xhaka and the Serie A side.

Indeed, it all looked certain that Xhaka was to end five years at Arsenal for a move to Italy.

Summer drama at Arsenal

But of course, that is now no longer the case. Roma were unable to agree a fee with Arsenal. And the 28-year-old midfielder is now due to stay in north London.

Yet there was to be an extra twist in the tale. Xhaka has now signed a new contract with Arsenal. And this could keep the former Bundesliga star in the English capital until 2025.

It is an extraordinary outcome given the circumstances leading into the summer. With Mikel Arteta promising major squad changes this window, it seems almost comical that the Arsenal manager will go back on his decision regarding Xhaka.

After all, selling the player who many supporters associate with the downfall of Arsenal over the past five years would have been a huge statement from Arteta.

Xhaka does not warrant new Arsenal contract

Yet the Basque manager making a U-turn on Xhaka is the coach’s most bizarre decision yet whilst in charge in north London.

Whilst Roma were unwilling to match Arsenal’s asking price for Xhaka, many supporters and pundits would agree that the Gunners would be much better off selling the Swiss midfielder, who has made more errors than any outfield player in the Premier League since arriving in 2016, than handing him a new deal with an increased salary.

Arteta has already made some questionable decisions during his short yet eventful spell as Arsenal manager.

Yet handing a 28-year-old midfielder who many fans wanted out a new deal is a worrying move from the club, and one that could well and truly backfire for the young coach.