Granit Xhaka, Arsenal Agree to New Contract

Arsenal midfielder Granit Xhaka has signed a new long-term contract, committing his immediate future to the club.

The Gunners announced the news on their official website and also shared this message from the Switzerland international:

Manager Unai Emery praised the former Borussia Monchengladbach man, saying: "I'm delighted that Granit has extended his contract with us. He's an important member of the squad and is still young so will be able to develop even more. I hope he has a successful World Cup with Switzerland and comes back fit and ready for the new season."

The 25-year-old was a regular for Arsenal last season and put together his best year in the English capital after struggling in his first campaign. He joined the Gunners in 2016, but he mostly made headlines for his many errors and needless bookings in the 2016-17 season.

The 2017-18 campaign saw Xhaka settle into the squad a little more, and crucially, he cut back on the mental errors and overly aggressive play. While he was far from perfect, he more than earned his spot in the team.

This new contract is a clear message of support for Xhaka amid rumours the Gunners are set to add Sampdoria's Lucas Torreira to the squad, per La Gazzetta delloSport (h/t Football Italia). His addition may have signalled the Swiss playmaker was on his way out, but it now seems they're likely to pair in the middle of the park.