Former Arsenal midfielder explains key difference between Mikel Arteta and Xabi Alonso

Granit Xhaka admits he cried "tears of joy" after leaving Arsenal for Bayer Leverkusen - and believes Mikel Arteta is more of a "whiteboard" manager than Xabi Alonso.

The 31-year-old departed Emirates Stadium for the Bundesliga side in the summer after seven years in north London.

Xhaka has been a standout player for Xabi Alonso's side who are currently leading the Bundesliga after their first 10 games.

“Absolutely. I’m a very emotional person, I like to cry and I’m not ashamed of it,” he told Bild.

“Of course, I also cried for joy at times. For example, when I made my transfer here to Leverkusen. I also cried tears of joy because I really wanted to go back. I think it’s also part of it as a person.”

Schoolboy friends Mikel Arteta and Xabi Alonso were both renowned star midfielders in the Premier League with the two now managers in their respective leagues.

Xhaka remains convinced that Alonso still possesses the potential to compete at the highest level of football.

“They are very similar in mentality and style of play, both are ambitious, purposeful and honest,” he told BILD.

“Arteta shows more on the board, Xabi shows the things himself on the court. He still has the quality to be able to play himself.

“That’s the biggest difference. It’s a privilege for me to be able to play under both of them. This is a gift.”