Football News: Granit Xhaka Shines for Switzerland at Euro 2024
Granit Xhaka has taken his game to new heights since leaving Arsenal and joining Bayer Leverkusen, as evidenced by his standout performance in Switzerland’s 3-1 victory over Hungary in their Euro 2024 opener.
Xhaka’s Dominant Display
The former Gunners midfielder was named the player of the match, with his dominant display in the middle of the park guiding the Swiss to a comfortable first-half lead. Xhaka’s influence was so profound that talkSPORT commentator Adam Bridge remarked, “I have to say, he looks a different player since he’s been working with Xabi Alonso.”
“I think his last season at Arsenal he was sensational,” said former Chelsea star Scott Minto. “Who would have thought just a few seasons ago that Arsenal would massively miss Granit Xhaka.”
Xhaka’s control and composure in the middle of the park were on full display against Hungary, as he completed 79 passes and recorded 99 touches. His ability to dictate the tempo of the game and make the right decisions allowed Switzerland to dominate the first half, going 2-0 up through Kwadwo Duah and Michel Aebischer.
Xhaka’s Transformation Under Alonso
Xhaka’s last season at Arsenal was already impressive, with the Swiss international contributing nine goals and seven assists in 47 appearances. However, his move to the Bundesliga and playing under the tutelage of Alonso at Leverkusen has taken his game to new levels.
“He’s become such an intelligent player,” Minto continued. “There’s no doubt about it, he was superb towards the end of his Arsenal career, but he’s gone up another level and beyond playing for Leverkusen under Xabi Alonso.”
While Hungary managed to pull a goal back in the second half, Xhaka and Switzerland maintained their grip on the game, with Breel Embolo adding a third goal in the closing minutes to seal the victory.
With Xhaka’s performance at Euro 2024 and his impressive form for Leverkusen, the midfielder has firmly established himself as one of the key figures in European football. Fans and pundits alike will be eager to see how he continues to develop under Alonso’s tutelage and how he can help Switzerland make a deep run in the tournament.
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