Granit Xhaka recently looked back over 2016, starting at Borussia Mönchengladbach and ending with Arsenal.

The midfielder spent four years at Gladbach and admitted that it was great to see them get into the Champions League last term before he signed for Arsenal early on in the summer transfer window. He played in 140 games for the Bundesliga club and was with them during a pivotal time in his footballing career.

Granit Xhaka
MOENCHENGLADBACH, GERMANY – DECEMBER 20: Granit Xhaka of Arsenal is presented to the fans prior to the Bundesliga match between Borussia Moenchengladbach and VfL Wolfsburg at Borussia-Park on December 20, 2016 in Moenchengladbach, Germany. (Photo by Maja Hitij/Bongarts/Getty Images)

However, the then 23-year-old Xhaka needed to make what he describes as the next big step and signed for Arsenal for a reported £35m in May. He was the first signing of the window and what a signing he was.

“We achieved what we wanted to with Gladbach – the Champions League qualification – and I was able to make the next big step in my career to Arsenal. So it’s all been very positive,” the 24-year-old said to Arsenal Player.

“I’m very happy, very proud, not only of myself but also my people, my family. They’ve given me plenty of support. That’s obviously very important to me.”

The Switzerland international has now made 22 appearances for Arsenal in all competitions and become a regular starter. His creativity going forward and passing is unreal.

It’s good that he also sees the move to north London as a positive one and I’m sure he’ll be wearing our red and white for years to come.