AD-Free Episode 538 - Breaking The Crapatron

Paul's description on Xhaka is the most accurate I've ever heard articulated. On another day he doesn't get a red at the Etihad earlier this year and maybe we only lose 3-1. On another day he's sent off against Norwich and we still win 3-1. But whatever he brings is necessary and can't exactly be controlled. Ask someone else to do it and it will likely be the same outcome because it will look awkward where as at the very least it comes naturally to this player.

Milton

Paul, "Granit Xhaka is one of the best midfielders in the league." Name another top 4 midfield that Granit Xhaka gets into when that team is fully healthy.

Outlaw

Xhaka remains a key player - extrovert to balance the introverts on the team. That was the reason Luis was so important also. Great to see White sticking a Norwich player into the stands at the weekend. He’s already seeing increased traffic down his channel b/c Gabriel is such a beast. If we can nurture Angry Benjamin, this season could get even better…

Great Frank Grimes reference. Probably best episode of all time

I love xhaka man I’m sorry

My brother's girlfriend was saying she finds Xhaka the most relatable player in the team, because he is stupid and irrational and overly emotional.

By the way there should have been an Elliot stock falling in IR POD 😂. Putting family over Arsenal is bordering on blasphemy mate.

I hear you but honestly I think an easier explanation is a catastrophic decline in the talent level combined with a richer premier league that has a higher talent level too to bottom than even 5 years ago. Do I think culture and mentality can matter? Absolutely. Do I think that mediocre talent with the right culture can thrive in this PL? Not a chance.

I gotta say, I don't understand how "soft factors" aren't religion among Arsenal fans. In my mind, this club has been shaped by years of failing to live up to their past and the culture and perception of the club from within completely falling apart. There is no coincidence that Arteta's no 1 priority is, arguably, to change the culture of the club, as the main path towards future success. You dont capitulate the way we have for years when we have a chance to take advantage of results going our way, or crumbling in big games. I have wanted our mentality to shift because the ceiling of this club will be determined by the expectation and demand for success. I love that the club recognizes this. Now, we need to instill that belief among the players and fans and, when we have created that mentality, success will come. Sports is all about overcoming your own inner demons and self-doubt, proving you belong and learning how to be successful, relative to your talent and motivation of course. Fantastic pod as always.

Underrated exchange: Paul: “it’s a bit like losing your virginity” Elliot: “beats me” 😂😂😂

OK then. Gotta smoke some BC bud 1st just to lay the foundations and then open a Guinness or 2 for the full experience