Xhaka, Ronaldo, Neymar: 7 times players publicly criticised their own teammates

Arsenal suffered a major blow to their Champions League qualification hopes when they lost 2-0 to Newcastle on Monday night – and Gunners midfielder Granit Xhaka didn’t hold back when it came to the performance of his teammates in his post-match interview.

Victory against the Magpies was a must for Arsenal as they sought to keep up the pressure on local rivals Tottenham in the race for fourth spot in the Premier League.

However, far from rising to the occasion, Mikel Arteta’s men were thoroughly outplayed at St. James’ Park. A Ben White own goal, followed by a second from Bruno Guimarães gave the hosts a well-deserved three points.

Arsenal’s players were visibly distraught at the final whistle – with the club now relying on basement dwellers Norwich to pull off an unlikely upset against Spurs on the final day if they are to secure Champions League football next term.

“It’s difficult to find the right words. From the first minute to the 90th we didn’t deserve to be on the pitch,” Xhaka admitted to Sky Sports following the match.

“I can’t explain to you why. We didn’t do what the game plan was, not listening to the coach. What happened was a disaster performance. You don’t deserve to play Champions League or even Europa League. It’s very hard to take it at the moment.

"If someone isn't ready for this game, stay at home" Granit Xhaka says the Arsenal players didn't deserve to be on the pitch today