The Bittersweet Tale of Arsenal, Xhaka, and Gnabry: A Story of Regrets and Triumphs

Key Takeaways:

• Granit Xhaka shines in Bundesliga, leading Bayer Leverkusen to a historic title amidst Arsenal's struggles.
• Arsenal's decision to sell Xhaka is questioned as he excels in Germany, showcasing remarkable statistical achievements.
• Serge Gnabry's successful career post-Arsenal underlines another 'what if' scenario for the club, highlighting a significant loss.

April 14, 2024, might be remembered as a day of contrasting fortunes for Arsenal Football Club and Granit Xhaka. As Arsenal faltered in their title chase with a loss to Aston Villa, Xhaka celebrated a Bundesliga victory with Bayer Leverkusen, marking a significant moment in both their journeys.

Granit Xhaka's Renaissance

Xhaka's transition from a polarizing figure at Arsenal to a Bundesliga champion with Leverkusen has been nothing short of cinematic. His departure from Arsenal, once a contentious club captain, to becoming a pivotal figure in Leverkusen's undefeated season, raises questions about Arsenal's decision-making. Under Xabi Alonso, Xhaka has been instrumental, boasting top percentile rankings in several key statistical areas, according to FBref. His performance begs the question: Did Arsenal let go of him too soon?

Serge Gnabry: The One That Got Away

Parallel to Xhaka's story of vindication is the tale of Serge Gnabry, another former Gunner who has flourished away from North London. Gnabry's departure, once deemed inconsequential, has grown to symbolize one of Arsenal's most glaring misjudgments. His consistent output for Bayern Munich, even outshining current Arsenal star Bukayo Saka's best tallies, highlights a missed opportunity for Arsenal. Gnabry's journey from a promising talent at Arsenal to a world-class winger at Bayern is a testament to the unpredictable nature of football careers and the importance of patience and belief in young talents.

Arsenal's Reflection

As Arsenal contemplates what could have been with Xhaka and Gnabry, the stories of these two players offer lessons in the delicate art of player management and the unpredictable trajectory of football careers. While Arsenal may rue their decisions, both Xhaka and Gnabry have moved on to write their own success stories, leaving fans and pundits to wonder about the alternate realities that might have been had they stayed at the Emirates.

In the end, the tales of Granit Xhaka and Serge Gnabry serve as poignant reminders of the fleeting nature of football fortunes, where today's regret can become tomorrow's triumph, and vice versa. As both players continue to excel in their respective leagues, they not only raise questions about Arsenal's past decisions but also underline the inherent unpredictability and drama that makes football the beautiful game it is.