Granit Xhaka Thrives as One of World's Best Midfielders at 31

Granit Xhaka is one of the world's best midfielders at 31, with a remarkable transformation since 2022.

What sparked the transformation?

He was fundamental to Arsenal's title charge in the 2022-2023 season, and his consistent performance led to a £20 million transfer to Bayer Leverkusen. His new team, led by Xabi Alonso, won the Bundesliga without losing a game, and Xhaka also won the German Cup, scoring the winning goal in the final.

How has Xhaka performed for Switzerland?

Xhaka has been named man of the match in two of the three group games in Euro 2024 and has played every minute of the tournament so far. He has completed more passes than any other Swiss player and picked apart Italy with his precise and progressive passing in the round-of-16 game.

What makes Xhaka a top midfielder?

Xhaka's availability is one of his finest qualities, having started 85 of the past 89 league matches for his clubs and 31 consecutive international matches for Switzerland since November 2021. He has played more matches for Switzerland than anyone else in the country's history, with 129 international appearances. And his partnership with Remo Freuler has given Switzerland a settled and balanced midfield, with the duo starting together in 26 of the last 28 matches. But Xhaka's career has been marked by resilience, having faced criticism and adversity throughout his time in the Premier League with Arsenal. So he continues to prove himself as one of the best midfielders in the world, with his performances for both club and country. Xhaka's form has been beyond all expectations since joining Leverkusen, starting 32 of 34 league matches and winning the Bundesliga and German Cup. Only two players in Germany's top flight ran further than Xhaka last season, and no midfielder passed more accurately, showcasing his dominance in the league.