Arsenal’s latest major signing Granit Xhaka is set to play a key role at the Gunners this season according to Per Mertesacker.
The former Germany international told FourFourTwo that the Swiss international is the perfect signing for Arsenal.
The report states that Xhaka is expected to be given an important role in Arsene Wenger’s starting line-up this term. The 23-year-old captained Switzerland at Euro 2016 this summer where he helped the country reach the last 16.
Interestingly Xhaka brother – Taulant Xhaka – played for the Albanian national team during Euro 2016 and the duo came face to face in the group stages.
“I don’t know him personally but that doesn’t matter, we will get along with each other very quickly because he is a good player and has done so much for Borussia Monchengladbach,” Mertesacker was quoted as saying by FourFourTwo.
“He can speak German as well, so it will be joy to get his first year going and help him bed in as a player.
“He’s a leader and that is really important, especially in midfield. He has got a very good attitude, is very composed on the ball and contributes a lot.
“He is a good passer as well, so he will set the tempo. I am looking forward to how he does it, how composed he will be in training and in the games. He will be the perfect signing for us.”
Xhaka joined Arsenal from the Bundesliga side Borussia Mönchengladbach for £38 million last month. The 23-year-old provided two assists and scored three goals in 36 appearances in all competitions for the Mönchengladbach last season.