Granit
Xhaka
Career overview
He has made significant contributions to both club and international football, showcasing his skills at top clubs and representing Switzerland in multiple major tournaments.
Career honours
Biography
Early Life & Origins
Granit Xhaka was born in Basel, Switzerland, to an ethnic Albanian family from Besianë, Kosovo. He grew up in a footballing environment, with his brother Taulant also pursuing a professional career in the sport. Xhaka's early exposure to football began at Concordia Basel before he joined the youth ranks of FC Basel.
Rise to Prominence
Xhaka's professional career began at FC Basel, where he quickly made a name for himself. His performances earned him a transfer to Borussia Mönchengladbach in 2012, where he developed into a key player and leader, eventually becoming club captain. His technical skills and leadership qualities helped him gain recognition in the Bundesliga.
Playing Style
Known for his passing ability, vision, and tactical awareness, Xhaka excels in a defensive midfield role. His strong tackling and ability to read the game make him a vital asset in breaking up opposition attacks. Despite facing criticism for his temperament, his leadership on the pitch has been a defining feature of his career.
Defining Moments & Achievements
Xhaka was part of the Swiss U-17 team that won the FIFA U-17 World Cup in 2009. At Arsenal, he played a crucial role in winning two FA Cups and served as captain, showcasing his importance to the team. His move to Bayer Leverkusen in 2023 marked a significant step in his career, contributing to the club's first league title.
Rivalries & Era Context
Throughout his career, Xhaka has faced intense competition within the midfield, particularly in the Premier League and Bundesliga. His rivalries with players like N'Golo Kanté and Joshua Kimmich highlight the competitive nature of his era, where tactical battles in midfield are critical to team success.
Legacy & Impact
Xhaka's impact extends beyond the pitch, as he represents a modern footballer balancing talent and leadership. His journey from youth football to international recognition serves as an inspiration for aspiring athletes, particularly within the Swiss football community, where he is regarded as a role model.
Stats in detail
By Competition
A breakdown of Xhaka's performance across various competitions.
| Domestic League | 377 apps, 31 goals |
| Champions League | 11 apps, 2 goals |
| Domestic Cups | 47 apps, 1 goal |
| International Matches | 146 apps, 17 goals |
By Club
Xhaka's career statistics at each major club.
| Basel | 67 apps, 3 goals |
| Borussia Mönchengladbach | 108 apps, 6 goals |
| Arsenal | 225 apps, 17 goals |
| Bayer Leverkusen | 66 apps, 5 goals |
| Sunderland | 34 apps, 1 goal |
Standout Seasons
Highlighting Xhaka's most impactful seasons.
| 2016-17 | 32 apps, 2 goals |
| 2019-20 | 31 apps, 1 goal |
| 2022-23 | 37 apps, 7 goals |
| 2023-24 | 33 apps, 3 goals |
International
Xhaka's contributions to the Swiss national team.
| Total Caps | 146 |
| Total Goals | 17 |
| FIFA World Cups | 3 (2014, 2018, 2022) |
| UEFA European Championships | 3 (2016, 2020, 2024) |
Career timeline
Head-to-Head
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