Granit Xhaka, Bayer Leverkusen influential midfielder, is setting ambitious goals for the upcoming Bundesliga season. After leading the team to an unexpected title last year, Xhaka is urging his teammates to remain at the top and continue their winning ways.
A Surprising Triumph
When Granit Xhaka joined Bayer Leverkusen from Arsenal, many were skeptical. Leverkusen had just finished fifth in the Bundesliga, and new head coach Xabi Alonso was embarking on his first full season. Despite the doubts, the team defied expectations by finishing the season unbeaten, a feat no other German team, including Bayern Munich, had achieved before. They also won the German Cup and lost only one of their 53 matches across all competitions.
Speaking at the club’s pre-season training camp in Donaueschingen, Xhaka emphasized that last season was just the start. “We know people are hoping to beat us,” he said. “They will try and do everything, but we still have the hunger to be where we were last season.”
Overcoming Criticism
Xhaka’s journey to success has not been without challenges. During his time at Arsenal, he faced significant criticism, often for his emotional displays on the pitch. Despite playing 297 matches and captaining the Swiss national team, Xhaka was removed from the Arsenal captaincy after an outburst against fans.
Instead of letting criticism hinder his career, Xhaka embraced it as a tool for improvement. “I’m a fan of criticism because it makes you stronger,” he shared. “I don’t drop my head; I look at what they are criticizing and adjust if needed.”
Reflecting on his growth, Xhaka acknowledged that experience has transformed him. “Ten years ago, I was much more emotional. Today, I’m less so. Experience shapes who you are.”
Returning as an ‘Invincible’
Xhaka’s return to Leverkusen brought with it a sense of pride. The team completed the Bundesliga season with 90 points, mirroring Arsenal’s unbeaten Premier League campaign in 2003-04. Xhaka, however, never expected to replicate Arsenal’s invincible status but feels honored to be part of Leverkusen’s remarkable season. “It makes you feel special and very happy,” he said. “It was 2004 with Arsenal, and then 20 years later, I’m part of it in Germany.”
Leading by Example
Although Xhaka is not the captain of Leverkusen, he has quickly become a key leader on the field. With Leverkusen competing in the Champions League this season, Xhaka is committed to guiding the younger players who are new to the competition. “Maybe they’re nervous,” Xhaka noted. “You can explain things to them, but they need to experience the atmosphere and intensity of these games themselves.”
Planning for the Future
Looking ahead, Xhaka is preparing for life after his playing career. At 35, he will be finishing his contract with Leverkusen in four years. He has already started his FA coaching badges and serves as an assistant coach at Union Nettetal, a fifth-tier club. Xhaka believes that his coaching experience will benefit him on the pitch. “The most important thing is that the coach trusts me and values the influence I can have during the game,” he said. “Whether we win or lose, we do it together. If I can help the coach on the pitch, I will.”
As Bayer Leverkusen aims to maintain their top form, Xhaka’s leadership and experience will be crucial in their quest for continued success. Stay updated with the latest from IPL365.
