Xhaka stripped of Arsenal captaincy after outburst at fans

Embattled Swiss midfielder Granit Xhaka has been stripped of the Arsenal captaincy following an outburst directed at fans during a home draw against Crystal Palace two weeks ago.

Gunners boss Unai Emery told reporters the news on Tuesday after notably omitting Xhaka from the squad for Thursday's Europa League trip to Portugal.

Gabonese striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang will now sport the captain's armband, Emery confirmed.

"He accepted my decision and also I told the captain and other captain my decision, we need to carry on and to focus on tomorrow’s match and Saturday’s match. I needed to take one decision, and now it is closed," Emery said of Xhaka.

Xhaka hasn't played since tossing the armband and twice shouting "F--- off" amid boos from Arsenal supporters while coming off at the hour mark against Palace.

The 27-year-old revealed he was the target of vile taunts. His family was also included in the social media harassment that led to the incident.

Emery has also received criticism because of the club's poor form. The decision to name Xhaka captain has largely fallen on the Spanish tactician's shoulders despite claims the call was made after a vote among players.

Since joining the north London lot from Borussia Dortmund in Jan. 2018, Aubameyang has arguably been the team's best and most consistent player, bagging 50 goals in 78 matches in all competitions.