Report: How Arsenal squad reacted to Granit Xhaka’s post-match interview

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The Arsenal dressing room had few complaints with Granit Xhaka’s post-match interview following their defeat to Newcastle on Monday night, with many of the criticisms being repeated behind the scenes, according to a report from The Athletic.

Xhaka pulled no punches following the final whistle at St James’ Park. Arsenal were soundly beaten 2-0. They conceded both of the goals during the second-half. However, the loss felt inevitable for some time as the Gunners simply were not at the races.

It was a devastating loss for Arsenal. The race for the top-four in the Premier League was in their hands before the game. Now however, they require Norwich to beat Tottenham on the final day to stand a chance of finishing fourth.

Unsurprisingly, Xhaka was extremely honest after the game. Some criticised his comments. Meanwhile, Darren Bent suggested that his teammates may be livid with the Swiss.

However, it seems that that was not the case. The Athletic reports that most in the squad accepted that Xhaka’s complaints were valid. And his comments were similar to what was said in the dressing room.

Arsenal fans needed to hear Granit Xhaka’s post-match interview

Of course, Arsenal fans felt hard done by in the North London derby. Son Heung-min avoided punishment after a clash with Rob Holding. And some supporters felt that the penalty was extremely harsh.

But they probably did not appreciate Arteta suggesting that he could not be prouder of his players. They had been beaten 3-0 in one of the biggest derbies for a long time.

Obviously, they would have preferred to have seen a reaction on the pitch. But Xhaka’s comments after the Newcastle loss would have meant something to the fans.

They would have been confused, angry and disappointed after the defeat. And that is absolutely how Xhaka came across in his post-match interview.