Page 5 - Arsenal 2-0 Manchester United: Hits and Flops

Arsenal 2-0 Manchester United: Hits and Flops | Premier League 2019-20

Modified Jan 01, 2020 23:23 GMT

Arsenal picked up an impressive 2-0 win over Manchester United

Hit: Granit Xhaka

Granit Xhaka appears to be a player reborn under Mikel Arteta

Current reports have been suggesting that Arsenal are ready to let Granit Xhaka go in the upcoming transfer window, with Hertha Berlin a possible destination, but judging by tonight’s performance the Gunners should attempt to keep the controversial Swiss midfielder at the Emirates for the foreseeable future.

Deployed as part of a double-pivot in Arsenal’s midfield alongside Lucas Torreira, Xhaka not only outshone his teammate but he was also far more convincing than United counterparts Fred and Nemanja Matic.

The Swiss international seemed to be everywhere, particularly in the first half, continually harrying his opponents and making their lives miserable.

Despite registering highly in successful tackles and interceptions, though, Xhaka was not just a destroyer in this match; with a 93% passing success rate he also kept Mikel Arteta’s side ticking over, justifying his manager’s faith in him.

Will the Swiss midfielder remain at Arsenal come the end of January? Only time will tell, but right now he appears to be a player reborn under Arteta, something that will surely give Arsenal fans a boost going into 2020.

About the author

Scott is a veteran MMA writer with over two decades of experience, including his ongoing tenure in Sportskeeda, which began seven years ago. He has written over 3000 pieces for the organization, while also covering football. Before joining Sportskeeda, Scott wrote articles for websites like The Oratory and Inside Pulse MMA.

Scott has a degree in history, which drives his research skills and helps him compile accurate information. His long stint in the field helps Scott provide a clear take on important topics, such as the criticism of promotions regarding fighter pay. While he feels fighters deserve a bigger revenue share, he doesn’t want MMA to suffer with purse-split issues.

Scott’s work has been previously reshared by the former UFC middleweight champion Chris Weidman. He uses credible sources, such as the UFC’s official website, during the writing process.

His dedication to MMA writing won him the Feature Writer of the Month award for Sportskeeda in November 2021.

Outside of work, Scott likes to go to the gym, walk his dog, and travel.

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Edited by Arvind Sriram