When Xabi Alonso took over as head coach of Bayer Leverkusen last October, the team was in a relegation battle. However, his leadership led to a remarkable turnaround, allowing the squad to qualify for European competitions and raising expectations for the current season.
During the summer transfer window, Leverkusen welcomed key players like Grimaldo, Jonas Hofmann, and Victor Boniface, exciting the fans. A standout signing was former Arsenal captain Granit Xhaka.
Xhaka, who received mixed reviews during his time in London, is viewed as crucial to Alonso’s tactics. He has shown exceptional form, significantly contributing to Leverkusen’s title hopes. In an interview with NZZ am Sonntag, Xhaka reflected on his role, stating:
“I don’t see myself as a ‘boss’ here. I came to Leverkusen to embrace a new challenge after seven years at Arsenal. I’m an experienced player, and I aim to share my knowledge with my teammates.”
He clarified his reasons for leaving Arsenal, saying, “It was suggested I moved for my wife, but that’s not true. She was content in London. My decision was strictly about football. I joined a top club in Germany with clear ambitions. The move was easier since we previously lived near Düsseldorf, close to where my wife grew up.”
Xhaka noted the differences between the two clubs: “Training here daily gives you a real sense of the environment. Bayer Leverkusen offers a calm atmosphere without the chaos found in more high-profile clubs. The pressure at Arsenal is distinct, but we have great ambitions, aware of the team’s potential. If we maintain our focus, success is within reach.”
Now concentrating on football, Xhaka discussed the shift from playing against Alonso to being coached by him: “He was a formidable opponent. His intelligence and passing skills meant pressing him was often unnecessary. He emphasizes those same details in our training now, and I feel I’ve improved in this aspect over the past two months. He highlights the nuances that distinguish a good midfielder from a great one.”
With Alonso unlocking the squad’s potential and Xhaka stating that “the six position suits me perfectly,” Leverkusen is poised for a remarkable season. Currently, they lead the Bundesliga after six matchdays and show no signs of slowing down.
