Arsenal suffered a hammer blow just before half time in the match against Manchester United at Old Trafford.
Scott McTominay's shot could only be watched by Gunners' goalkeeper Bernd Leno as it nestled in the back of the net to give the Red Devils' a 1-0 lead going into the half time break.
However, Arsenal fans on social media have noticed what newly named club captain did as the shot headed towards him in the penalty area. The midfielder appeared to duck his head out of the way of the shot, with the ball taking a slight deflection off the top of his head.
When announcing the captaincy, Unai Emery spoke of Xhaka's qualities that has influenced his decision.
"First he's mature. He has experience. We are living every time under pressure, under criticism, as a coach, as a player, as a club. But really the most important thing is to stand up each moment, go ahead with his qualities, with his behaviour, with his commitment," he said.
"In the dressing room the players voted him as the first leadership. I know, I spoke with him, we want to change that opinion outside. That respect he has inside is very, very important. Also show outside, keep moving ahead, playing, improving, behaviour, commitment. Each match is for him, for me, for us, a very good opportunity to show our capacity.
"But really I trust and believe in him. He is a good man. A good professional. A good player."
The announcement of Xhaka as club captain in the week prompted a negative reaction from Arsenal fans, with supporters now taking to social media to point out that the player's actions both in the lead up to and as the goal was scored proved why he shouldn't be Arsenal captain.
Arsenal will now have the second half in order to turn the game around with the aim of returning to the top four in the Premier League.
