As Bayer Leverkusen gears up for the new Bundesliga season, talisman Granit Xhaka is determined to maintain the club’s record-breaking momentum from the previous year. After a stunning season that saw Leverkusen clinch the Bundesliga title undefeated—a feat never achieved by any German side, including giants Bayern Munich—Xhaka is rallying his teammates to once again challenge for the title.
Xhaka’s arrival from Arsenal was met with skepticism last season. Leverkusen had just finished fifth in the Bundesliga and were under the guidance of rookie coach Xabi Alonso. Despite the uncertainty, the club exceeded all expectations. Not only did they secure the Bundesliga crown, but they also added the German Cup to their collection and lost only one of 53 matches across all competitions. This unprecedented success has set a high bar for the coming season, and Xhaka is urging his teammates to rise to the challenge.
In an interview with AFP at Leverkusen’s pre-season training camp in Donaueschingen, Xhaka reflected on the previous season and the journey that led him to this point. “We know people are hoping to beat us, they will try and they will do everything,” Xhaka acknowledged. “But we still have the hunger to be where we were last season.” His commitment to maintaining Leverkusen’s dominance underscores his belief that the previous campaign was merely the beginning of what the team can achieve.
Xhaka’s career has been marked by a mixture of highs and lows, particularly during his time at Arsenal. Despite his contributions, he often faced criticism for his emotional displays on the pitch and a controversial incident where he was stripped of the Arsenal captaincy. However, Xhaka views criticism as a catalyst for growth. “I’m a fan of criticism, because criticism makes you stronger,” he explained. “It makes you look at what you need to change and improve.”
This mindset has been crucial in Xhaka’s transformation at Leverkusen. His ability to channel past criticisms into a positive force has been instrumental in his impressive performances and leadership at his new club. Now, as a key figure at Leverkusen, he embraces his role as an on-field leader, despite not wearing the captain’s armband.
Xhaka’s impact at Leverkusen extends beyond the Bundesliga. The club is set to compete in the Champions League this season, joining four other German teams in the prestigious competition. With many of Leverkusen’s younger players yet to experience the Champions League, Xhaka is prepared to offer guidance. “Maybe they’re nervous. You can go to them, talk to them and explain it to them, but this feeling, you need to feel it,” he said. His experience in the Champions League will be invaluable in helping the younger players adapt to the high-stakes environment of European competition.
Looking ahead, Xhaka’s future is also on his mind. At 31 years old, he has a four-year contract with Leverkusen, which will see him through to the age of 35. During his time at Arsenal, he began his FA coaching badges and currently serves as an assistant coach at Union Nettetal, a fifth-tier team. This experience has shaped his understanding of the game from a coaching perspective, adding depth to his role as a player. “The most important thing is that the coach trusts me, believes in me, and the influence I can have on the team during the game,” Xhaka said. “We lose, we win together. And if I can try and help the coach on the pitch, I will do it for sure.”
Granit Xhaka’s journey from a critically scrutinized Arsenal player to a pivotal force at Bayer Leverkusen highlights his resilience and growth. As Leverkusen prepares for another season at the summit of German football, Xhaka’s leadership and experience will be crucial in ensuring they continue to set records and challenge for titles.
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