Arsenal’s midfielder, Granit Xhaka, has come out to defend teammate Bukayo Saka after he missed a penalty against West Ham on Sunday. Xhaka stated that he does not believe that the missed penalty would negatively affect the 21-year-old Saka, as he is mentally strong.
During the game, Arsenal let go of a two-goal lead for the second time in a row, with Said Benrahma and Jarrod Bowen scoring to cancel out early goals by Gabriel Jesus and Gabriel Martinelli.
Speaking about Saka’s missed penalty, Xhaka made it clear that he has no doubts about the young player’s ability to take responsibility in the future. Xhaka said, “This guy is so young. He’s 21, he’s so strong mentally. We are not worried about him. Of course, he was very disappointed, like all the team. But it’s not about him. It’s not like we’re saying if he scored, the game was finished. No, no, no, we had another 10 players on the pitch.”
Xhaka also emphasized the need for the team to support Saka during this time, stating that the young player needs their support now more than ever. He added, “He needs our support maybe more than before now. He’s young, this is one more experience for his future. But he’s so strong mentally and will show a reaction Friday.”
The midfielder went on to encourage the team not to blame anyone for the loss, including Saka. Xhaka said, “We don’t need to blame anybody — not Bukayo, not any player. Of course, he missed a penalty. It’s not on him. It happened to bigger players than him. This is part of the job, part of his career. It will not be the first, not the last. If there is another penalty on Friday, I will push him to take it again.”
Xhaka’s words offer a show of support for Saka and demonstrate the importance of team unity and encouragement, especially during difficult times.
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