Let’s be honest, even though Euro 2016 is still new and exciting, we doubt very many people will have organised their day around the Group A clash between Albania and Switzerland.
But for Arsenal fans, there was a good reason to watch the early afternoon kick-off in Lens.
With the season barely finished, Arsene Wenger was quick to complete the deal for Borussia Mönchengladbach midfielder Granit Xhaka. A Swiss international, this was the first opportunity for many Gooners to cast their eye over their new signing.
Up against the world football super power of Albania, Xhaka (whose brother was playing on the opposite side) instantly impressed supporters of his new club.
https://twitter.com/Curri180893/status/741645307948236800
https://twitter.com/Bxllerin/status/741646721822957568
And why not? Not only did he show that he was decent on the ball and could pick out a pass, he had something that very few Arsenal midfielders of recent years have had… he could put a tackle in.
Already love Xhaka. He's what we've been looking for, for years. Got a presence and loves a tackle but is equally as comfortable on the ball
— Ollie (@OllieJD98) June 11, 2016
https://twitter.com/sean_esq55/status/741617183785095168
Already, they were daring to dream what he could bring to the North London derby…
https://twitter.com/WelshWizxrd/status/741622432734273536
In just 90 minutes of football against Albania, he had already proven that he was one of the best midfielders in the Premier League.
Granit Xhaka would walk into any premier league midfield #EURO2016
— • (@IwobiFan) June 11, 2016
And more than that, for some, he’s almost certainly the man that can end their wait for Premier League glory.
Xhaka winning us the league title tears in my eyes
— – (@CalGoai) June 11, 2016
So what do you lot reckon? Is Xhaka the real deal? Give us a shout at Hello@JOE.co.uk or on our official Facebook page.
