Arsenal fans have sent a big message to Granit Xhaka on what is expected to be his final game for the club. After just 25 minutes the Swiss midfielder had already made it a game to remember, scoring twice as the Gunners raced into an early lead.
The first, a header from Gabriel Jesus' cross, was soon followed up by striking in Martin Odegaard's flick after a mazy run from Bukayo Saka. Both goals were greeted with joy by the fans and by celebrations covered with emotion.
The players were quick to crowd him and hug him, also joining in to pat him on the head, meanwhile after the second Xhaka ran to the dugout, embracing Mohamed Elneny and one of the coaches.
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With his contract expiring in just over 12 months, this is widely expected to be his last game as a move to Germany beckons and the Gunners prioritise a new midfielder this summer. Everything about the game appeared to indicate a final Emirates Stadium farewell and the crowd played their part, too.
As well as numerous flags with his face on, the Ashburton Army held up a banner with the message: "If this is the end, farewell Granit."
Having been booed off the pitch and with a fractured relationship between player and club for much of his seven-year stay in north London, it is an ode to how impressive he has been this season. The two goals make it seven for the season, meanwhile a third chance could have capped off an already remarkable day with a hat-trick but he miss-hit the open shot.
He also has seven assists another high for a single season at Arsenal.
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