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Granit Xhaka’s Surprising Transfer: Why He Left Arsenal for a New Challenge

DUSSELDORF, Dusseldorf Arena, 06-07-2024, European Football Championship Euro2024, round of 8 match no.48 between England and Switzerland, Switzerland player Granit Xhaka, England player Jude Bellingham (Photo by Pro Shots/Sipa USA) Credit: Sipa US/Alamy Live News
© Alamy / Sipa US

Granit Xhaka joins Bayer Leverkusen from Arsenal. Xhaka sees the transition as a progression, not a step back. Aims to outperform last season with his new team.

  • Xhaka views the move as a significant step forward in his career.
  • The transfer was completed on July 6, 2023, for a fee of €25 million (£21.4 million).
  • Xhaka has signed a five-year contract with Bayer Leverkusen.

Xhaka’s Perspective on the Move

Granit Xhaka, the Swiss midfielder, recently made headlines with his transfer from Arsenal to Bayer Leverkusen. Contrary to what some might think, Xhaka views this move as a significant step forward in his career. “The move from Arsenal to Bayer Leverkusen was not a step back, but rather two steps forward,” Xhaka told @BILD_Bayer04. This statement underscores his confidence and ambition as he embarks on this new chapter.


Transfer Details and Career Impact

The transfer, completed on July 6, 2023, for a fee of €25 million (£21.4 million), has a five-year contract attached. Xhaka’s career stats are impressive:

  • Arsenal (2016-2023):
    • Appearances: 297
    • Goals: 23
    • Assists: 29
    • Honors: 2x FA Cup, 2x FA Community Shield
  • Borussia Monchengladbach (2012-2016):
    • Appearances: 140
    • Goals: 9
    • Assists: 8
  • FC Basel (2010-2012):
    • Appearances: 61
    • Goals: 2
    • Assists: 3
  • Switzerland National Team:
    • Caps: 115
    • Goals: 13

His notable achievements include representing Switzerland in two UEFA European Championships and three FIFA World Cups and playing a pivotal role in Arsenal’s FA Cup victories in 2017 and 2020.

Immediate Impact and Future Prospects

Since his arrival, Xhaka has seamlessly integrated into Bayer Leverkusen, earning praise for his leadership and on-field performances. Managed by Xabi Alonso, Xhaka’s game has reached new heights, contributing significantly to the team’s success. His experience and skillset are expected to be crucial as Leverkusen aims to surpass their previous season’s performance.

Strategic Moves in the Transfer Market

For more insights on recent transfer activities:

  • Arsenal’s Newest Addition: Learn about Riccardo Calafiori’s upcoming five-year deal with Arsenal. Read more
  • Top Arsenal Talent: Fulham’s record-breaking move to sign Emile Smith Rowe. Read more
  • Major Transfer Boost: Arsenal eyes two key players for strategic squad enhancement. Read more

Granit Xhaka’s transfer to Bayer Leverkusen is more than just a change of clubs. It’s a strategic move filled with promise and potential, poised to elevate both his and his new team’s performance in the seasons to come.

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