Midfielder, Granit Xhaka has completed a £21.5m transfer from Arsenal to Bayer Leverkusen.
Xhaka arrived at Arsenal in May 2016 from Borussia Monchengladbach and has gone on to score 23 goals and create 29 assists in 297 appearances, during which he helped the Gunners win two FA Cup and Community Shield titles apiece in 2017 and 2020 across his time at the club.
The 30 year-old Switzerland international also helped Arsenal finish second in last season’s Premier League, following a titanic title fight against Manchester City which went to the penultimate matchweek of the season, with Arsenal’s title dreams ended in defeat at Nottingham Forest.
Xhaka eventually brought his time at Arsenal to an end with a brace in the Gunners’ final match of last season, which saw them run riot in a victorious 5-0 demolition at home against Wolves.
Bayer Leverkusen has paid Arsenal £21.5m for Xhaka, who has signed a five-year contract with the Bundesliga club until June 2028.
Arsenal’s Sporting Director, Edu paid tribute to Xhaka as he commented: “Granit has been a big part of our club for a long time. He has given us great commitment and quality over the years, playing such an important role in our progression and success.
“He leaves us with our huge respect and thanks. We wish Granit all the best for the future.”
Manager, Mikel Arteta added his own personal tribute message as he said: “We are saying goodbye to a fantastic player and person loved by all of us. It has been an incredible journey together for him and he has given absolutely everything for this club.
“The influence Granit has had on his team mates on the pitch and colleagues at the club, will tell you just how popular he is.
“We cannot thank Granit enough for his service and contribution to this club over the years. We wish Granit and his family all the best in the next step of their lives.”
Xhaka meanwhile posted a farewell message to Arsenal fans on Instagram in which he described that after seven years in North London, “now is the right time for a new adventure.”
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