Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta believes Granit Xhaka has the makings of a “great coach” in the future, while stressing the Sunderland midfielder still has “a long career ahead” on the pitch.
- Arteta tips Xhaka for a successful move into management after completing his coaching badges pathway.
- The Swiss international has featured heavily for newly-promoted Sunderland this season.
- Arteta says helping players transition into coaching is part of his legacy at Arsenal.
Speaking ahead of Arsenal’s trip to the Stadium of Light on Saturday, Mikel Arteta paid a glowing tribute to former captain Granit Xhaka, who returned to England in July after two seasons at Bayer Leverkusen.
“It would be up to him to decide. That’s not for me, but I think a very good one (manager). But let him play first. He’s playing every minute of every game, so I think he still has a long career ahead of him.” — Mikel Arteta
Arteta revealed that Xhaka began his coaching badges during his time at Emirates Stadium, part of a wider culture that encourages players to explore the pathway into management. The Gunners boss noted that several squad members have followed suit in recent seasons.
“Many others have started their licences while we are here, because they feel inspired, they love it and they see an opportunity to improve their lives after they retire,” Arteta said, adding that nurturing future coaches is an important strand of any manager’s legacy.
Recent examples from Arteta’s orbit include full-backs Cédric Soares and Mohamed Elneny working through badges, while former assistant Carlos Cuesta stepped into senior management this summer with Parma. Closer to home, ex-Arsenal midfielder Jack Wilshere has also taken his first senior job in the dugout, underscoring the increasing number of Arteta protégés entering coaching.
Xhaka’s resurgence and leadership
Xhaka’s move to Sunderland has seen him take on a central leadership role for the newly-promoted side. His consistency and experience have been key pillars of the Black Cats’ early-season approach, echoing the responsibility he carried in North London and in Germany.
Arteta, who worked closely with Xhaka during their seven seasons together at Arsenal, credited the Swiss international with helping refine his own coaching, particularly during the period when Xhaka rebuilt his relationship with supporters and re-established himself as a core figure in the dressing room.
“He made me a better coach,” Arteta admitted. “I’m very grateful for what he did for us and how he led, on and off the pitch.”
Why Arteta sees a coach in Xhaka
Beyond tactical nous, Arteta pointed to Xhaka’s presence, communication and willingness to take responsibility—traits that often translate to the touchline. With formal badges underway and an appetite for learning, the foundations are in place for a seamless transition when the time eventually comes.
Context: Xhaka returned to the Premier League in July after a successful two-year spell with Bayer Leverkusen. Arsenal visit Sunderland at the Stadium of Light on Saturday.
Reporting by FootyMind News Desk.