Granit Xhaka, a name synonymous with dynamism and reliability in midfield, has evolved into one of the key players for both his club, Arsenal, and the Swiss national team. Over the years, his style of play, combined with his tenacity and leadership, has earned him recognition across Europe. In this article, we explore Granit Xhaka’s stats, his role on the field, and his overall impact on the game.

Early Career and Transition to Arsenal

Born in Switzerland to Albanian parents, Xhaka began his football journey in the youth ranks of Swiss club FC Basel. His impressive performances at Basel, particularly in European competitions, caught the eye of top clubs, leading to his transfer to Borussia Mönchengladbach in 2012. His commanding presence in midfield and his excellent passing range made him a standout player in the Bundesliga, and by 2016, Xhaka had made his move to the Premier League with Arsenal for a reported fee of £35 million.

His time at Arsenal has seen him undergo both challenges and moments of brilliance. Initially criticized for his disciplinary issues, Xhaka’s transformation under various Arsenal managers has helped him emerge as a more mature, reliable leader on the pitch.

Granit Xhaka’s Stats: A Midfielder with Versatility

Granit Xhaka’s career stats reflect his growing importance on the field. His primary role as a deep-lying midfielder allows him to control the tempo of the game and distribute the ball effectively, contributing both defensively and offensively. Xhaka’s statistics have been impressive, particularly in the following areas:

Passing and Distribution

One of Xhaka’s standout qualities is his ability to dictate the game with his passing. In the 2023-24 Premier League season, Xhaka averaged around 57 passes per match, with an impressive pass completion rate of 87%. Known for his long-range passes, he has the vision to switch play and find teammates in advanced positions. This ability makes him an essential cog in Arsenal’s build-up play, particularly in matches where possession is key.

Defensive Contributions

Though not primarily a defensive player, Xhaka’s contributions in breaking up opposition attacks cannot be overlooked. He averages 2.1 tackles per game, along with 1.1 interceptions. His physicality and awareness allow him to snuff out danger, often recovering possession in crucial areas. Xhaka is not afraid to get stuck in, and his ability to shield the backline provides security for his teammates.

Goals and Assists

Xhaka’s attacking output has been one of the surprises of his career, particularly in recent seasons. In the 2023-24 season, he scored 4 goals and provided 5 assists, showcasing his ability to contribute to both ends of the pitch. His goals often come from long-range efforts, a testament to his powerful shot, and his assists typically result from his vision in picking out teammates in dangerous areas. Xhaka’s ability to arrive late in the box and offer support to the forwards makes him a threat in advanced positions.

Discipline

While Granit Xhaka is a hard player, his discipline has often been a topic of discussion. In his Premier League career, he has accumulated a number of yellow cards due to his aggressive style of play. On average, Xhaka picks up around 3 to 4 yellow cards per season. However, over time, he has shown better control, reducing the number of red cards he receives and improving his overall composure on the pitch.

Leadership and International Contributions

Xhaka’s leadership has been a significant factor in both his club and international career. As the captain of the Swiss national team, he is a central figure in their midfield, often leading by example with his work ethic and tactical awareness. His performances in major international tournaments, including the UEFA European Championship and FIFA World Cup qualifiers, highlight his importance to Switzerland’s success on the international stage.

Xhaka’s Future: Continuing to Evolve

As Granit Xhaka enters the later stages of his career, his role on the field has matured significantly. His experience, tactical intelligence, and ability to perform under pressure have made him a valuable asset for Arsenal. Though some fans still debate his effectiveness, his consistency, leadership, and ability to influence matches continue to solidify his legacy.

Xhaka’s stats demonstrate not just his technical abilities but his growth as a player. His passing, defensive capabilities, and increasing goal contributions make him one of the top midfielders in the Premier League. As Arsenal looks to challenge for titles in the coming years, Xhaka will remain an integral part of their midfield engine.

FAQs

What are Granit Xhaka’s passing stats?

Granit Xhaka is renowned for his passing range and vision. In the 2023-24 Premier League season, Xhaka averaged around 57 passes per match, with an impressive pass completion rate of 87%. His ability to switch play and distribute the ball accurately across long distances makes him a key player in Arsenal’s buildup play. Xhaka’s passing accuracy in central and defensive areas provides stability to the team.

How many goals and assists does Granit Xhaka contribute each season?

Granit Xhaka’s offensive contributions have improved over the years. In the 2023-24 Premier League season, he scored 4 goals and provided 5 assists. Known for his powerful shot, Xhaka has been a threat from long-range, with several goals coming from outside the box. His assists are often the result of his vision and precision in finding attacking teammates in dangerous positions.

What defensive stats does Granit Xhaka have?

Xhaka is also a reliable defensive presence in midfield. In the 2023-24 season, he averaged around 2.1 tackles and 1.1 interceptions per game. His physicality, positioning, and tactical awareness allow him to break up opposition attacks, often acting as a shield for his defenders and contributing to team defense.

Is Granit Xhaka a key player for Switzerland?

Yes, Xhaka is a crucial player for the Swiss national team. As captain, he plays a central role in their midfield, bringing leadership and composure. His experience in major international tournaments, such as the UEFA European Championship and World Cup qualifiers, makes him a key figure in Switzerland’s successes on the global stage.

To Conclude

Granit Xhaka’s journey from a talented youngster in Switzerland to a Premier League star is a testament to his hard work, perseverance, and adaptability. His stats reflect his all-rounded contribution to the game, both defensively and offensively. As he continues to play at the highest level, Xhaka’s role as a leader and midfield maestro will undoubtedly be central to his team’s success. 

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