Granit Xhaka has become a vital player for Bayer 04 Leverkusen this season, demonstrating leadership and a renewed focus. At 32, he has transitioned into a respected veteran, motivating teammates during challenging times and communicating openly. He has excelled as a playmaker, already matching his assist total from the previous five seasons and scoring two goals. Xhaka’s performance has significantly contributed to Leverkusen’s resurgence, particularly in light of injuries to key strikers.
Granit Xhaka: A Key Player for Bayer 04 Leverkusen
Granit Xhaka has emerged as a pivotal figure in Bayer 04 Leverkusen’s gameplay this season, showcasing a renewed focus that has energized the Werkself. Notably, Xhaka has established a routine of addressing public inquiries following matches, further solidifying his role as a leader. At 32 years old, the Swiss international has evolved from a fiery competitor into a respected veteran, willing to articulate the team’s performance, even during challenging periods at the start of the season. Known for his candidness, Xhaka communicates uncomfortable truths with tact and precision.
Xhaka’s Leadership and Impact on Team Performance
When the team’s winning momentum faltered, Xhaka stepped up with forthright remarks aimed at motivating his teammates. Phrases like, “I miss the last bite to defend the goal,” and “This is a huge wake-up call for all of us. We cannot continue with this performance,” exemplify his desire to rally the squad. Xhaka’s years of experience have instilled a sense of confidence that permeates both his leadership style and his personal game. This season, he has adapted his approach, responding to the apparent need for action due to his team’s temporary struggles.
This season in the Bundesliga, Xhaka has become a formidable threat to rival defenses. By the 13th matchday, he had tallied five assists, making him the top playmaker for the Werkself. In contrast, during the remarkable championship season, he did not record a single assist. His current performance has him tied for fifth in the Bundesliga with Bayern’s Harry Kane, trailing only behind leading assist providers like Omar Marmoush from Frankfurt and Vincenzo Grifo from Freiburg, who both have seven assists.
Remarkably, Xhaka has already matched his total assists from the previous five Bundesliga seasons combined, where he had five assists over 108 matches with Borussia Mönchengladbach. Additionally, he has scored two goals this season, surpassing last season’s total of three. This resurgence highlights a newfound offensive prowess that Xhaka has tapped into in recent months, rekindling a previously stifled attacking flair.
In an effort to bolster the Leverkusen attack, Xhaka has taken on a more prominent role, especially following injuries to top strikers Victor Boniface and Patrik Schick. The burden of scoring now falls on multiple players, and Xhaka has embraced the challenge of injecting fresh energy into the team’s gameplay while addressing early-season lapses in focus and motivation.
After a hard-fought 1:0 victory against Inter Milan in the Champions League, Xhaka reflected on the match, stating, “We had a lot of control again and very small distances to play counter-pressing. If we play like this, it will be difficult for many.” The resurgence of Bayer 04 Leverkusen as a competitive force can be largely attributed to Xhaka’s influence in midfield.