Arsenal’s dynamic midfielder Lucas Torreira was caught by the cameras with tears in his eyes after club captain Granit Xhaka received a wave of abuses and jeers from the Emirates crowd while being taken off the field by manager Unai Emery.
Having taken a two goal lead within the first ten minutes of the Premier League game against Crystal Palace, the Gunners looked set to record what would have only been their second win in the competition in the ongoing month.
However, goals on either side of half-time meant the two teams were on level terms by the 52nd minute. With manager Unai Emery desperate to overturn the club’s recent run of form, he brought on young winger Bukayo Saka to replace midfield anchor Granit Xhaka.
As soon as the Swiss’ name was displayed on the big screen, the Gooners erupted in cheers to see the 27-year-old go off.
Arsenal has failed to capitalize on its talented squad and the quality has not reflected in the results so far this season, with the captain having been made the scapegoat for their poor performances. He has been on the wrong end of abuses aimed at him and his family, the same of which was again at display on Sunday.
However, this time he decided he had had enough, as he threw the armband to the ground before ripping off his jersey and dropping it in the dirt while walking off into the tunnel.
While such dire actions divided the internet between those who lambasted him for disrespecting the club in such manner and those who sympathized with the treatment he has been receiving from the Emirates faithful, it was evident which side Lucas Torreira was on.
The Uruguayan himself has had limited minutes so far this campaign with Xhaka being the preferred option for the French manager, but the 23-year-old’s faith in and respect for the skipper was on display as the criticism hurled at Xhaka overwhelmed the youngster.
Didn't want to post these pictures but felt I had to. This is Lucas Torreira's emotional reaction to the abuse Granit Xhaka received after his substitution, in tears and inconsolable. Absolute love and respect for his captain. pic.twitter.com/ijKOvwkYx2
It remains to be seen whether the club will be taking any disciplinary action against the skipper, with a glaring possibility that he will be stripped of his leadership position, but the players regardless seem to be standing united with each other.
