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Granit Xhaka: “We Made It Easy for Ourselves” – A Statement on Team Chemistry, Leadership, and Future Ambitions
In the world of football, few players exude the level of leadership, passion, and determination as Granit Xhaka. Known for his formidable presence in midfield, Xhaka has consistently been one of the driving forces for both club and country. In recent years, his performances have evolved from being a figure of controversy to a respected leader on and off the pitch. His insightful comment, “We made it easy for ourselves,” following a commanding performance in a major win, reflects not only his personal growth but also the collective progress of his team, showcasing his belief in his side’s ability to reach new heights.
Xhaka’s statement came after an impressive victory in an important match, where his team showcased their dominance and tactical discipline. In this article, we will explore what Xhaka meant by his statement, how his leadership style has evolved, and how he has become a key figure in his team’s development, particularly in the context of his time with both the Swiss national team and club football.
The Meaning Behind “We Made It Easy for Ourselves”
Xhaka’s remark, “We made it easy for ourselves,” can be interpreted in several ways. At first glance, it appears to suggest that the team played with such efficiency and discipline that they were able to control the game with minimal effort. It is a reflection of a dominant performance where everything clicked: good organization, cohesive team play, and clinical execution. For Xhaka, this phrase may also highlight how his team managed to eliminate any unnecessary complications in their approach, making the outcome inevitable due to their tactical preparation and focus.
This sentiment resonates particularly with Xhaka’s style of play, where his focus is not just on individual performances but on the collective strength of the team. Xhaka has always been a player who thrives in a system where everyone knows their role and executes it to perfection. In matches where the team plays with such precision, Xhaka’s role as a midfielder becomes simpler—he is able to orchestrate the play, distribute passes, and dominate the midfield without having to chase the game or put out fires caused by disorganization or lack of communication.
His leadership is also reflected in his calmness during moments of pressure. Xhaka is not the type to panic when faced with adversity; instead, he encourages his teammates to remain focused and composed, ensuring that the team stays aligned with the game plan. This “easy” performance Xhaka speaks of is a result of hard work in training and a level of maturity that has come with years of experience at the highest level.
Xhaka’s Leadership Evolution
Over the years, Granit Xhaka has undergone a significant transformation, both as a player and as a leader. When he first arrived in the Premier League at Arsenal, his temperament and combative nature often came under scrutiny. Early on, he was criticized for rash decisions, such as committing fouls in dangerous positions and receiving red cards. However, Xhaka has worked tirelessly to refine his game and become a more composed and influential presence in the heart of midfield.
One of the most notable aspects of Xhaka’s evolution has been his development into a leadership role. His ability to command the midfield and orchestrate play has made him one of the most dependable players in his team. Despite not being the flashiest player, Xhaka’s leadership is rooted in his consistency, tactical understanding, and ability to remain calm under pressure. These qualities are what make him the anchor that holds the team together.
The turning point for Xhaka’s leadership came in 2019 when he was controversially stripped of the Arsenal captaincy after an on-pitch altercation with fans. At that moment, many believed it might mark the end of his career at the club. Instead, it was the catalyst for his personal growth. Xhaka embraced the challenge and used the experience to become a more effective player. He learned to keep his emotions in check and to channel his passion for the game into more positive actions on the pitch. By the time Mikel Arteta arrived as head coach, Xhaka had fully established himself as a central figure in the squad, earning the trust of his teammates and his manager alike.
Xhaka’s ability to thrive under pressure is a testament to his mental fortitude. He is a player who thrives in high-stakes situations, whether in domestic league matches or international tournaments with Switzerland. His experience in major competitions, such as the UEFA Champions League and the World Cup, has added to his maturity and influence in the locker room. As he grows older and wiser, his leadership qualities are becoming even more pronounced, making him an indispensable part of his team.
The Role of Xhaka in His Team’s Success
In addition to his leadership qualities, Xhaka’s tactical importance cannot be overstated. As a deep-lying midfielder, he is the pivot around which much of the team’s offensive play revolves. Xhaka’s vision and passing range allow him to control the tempo of the game and dictate play from the middle of the park. Whether it’s a short pass to maintain possession or a long ball to set up an attacking move, Xhaka’s distribution is key to unlocking opposition defenses.
Moreover, his work rate and discipline in defensive transitions make him invaluable. Xhaka is often tasked with breaking up the opposition’s attacks and shielding the defense, allowing more attacking-minded players to focus on creating chances. His tactical awareness allows him to be in the right place at the right time, making timely interceptions or recovering the ball in crucial moments.
Xhaka’s ability to strike the ball from distance also adds a goal-scoring threat to his game. While not known for his prolific goal-scoring, Xhaka has proven time and time again that he is capable of scoring spectacular long-range goals, particularly from set-pieces. This added dimension to his game makes him a more complete midfielder and a player that opponents cannot afford to neglect.
In recent seasons, Xhaka has demonstrated an ability to adjust his style of play according to the needs of the team. Under Arteta at Arsenal, Xhaka has adapted to a more attacking role at times, contributing to build-up play higher up the pitch, while still maintaining his primary responsibilities in midfield. This flexibility has been a key factor in his team’s success, particularly in games where tactical discipline is required to manage difficult situations.
Xhaka’s Impact on the Swiss National Team
On the international stage, Xhaka has also been a leader for the Swiss national team. With over 100 caps to his name, he has been a mainstay in Switzerland’s midfield for nearly a decade. Xhaka’s leadership on the international stage mirrors his role at the club level, as he regularly captains his national team and serves as an example for younger players.
In tournaments such as the UEFA European Championship and the FIFA World Cup, Xhaka has been crucial in helping Switzerland punch above its weight. His leadership, coupled with his experience, has played a key role in Switzerland’s successes, including their memorable run to the quarterfinals of the 2020 European Championship. Xhaka’s importance to the national team is not just in his on-pitch performances but in his ability to motivate his teammates and keep them focused, no matter the circumstances.
Looking Ahead: Ambitions for the Future
As Granit Xhaka continues to evolve as a player and leader, the future looks bright both for him and for his team. At the club level, he remains a key figure in Arsenal’s pursuit of domestic and European glory. Under Mikel Arteta, Xhaka is likely to continue playing a pivotal role in the team’s ambitions to challenge for the Premier League and compete at the highest level in Europe.
For Switzerland, Xhaka’s leadership will be crucial in upcoming international competitions. As one of the most experienced players in the squad, his influence will be vital in guiding the team through the challenges of major tournaments like the World Cup and the European Championship.
Ultimately, Xhaka’s comment, “We made it easy for ourselves,” speaks to the growth and development of both him and his team. His leadership, tactical intelligence, and ability to manage games with calm authority have made him one of the most respected figures in modern football. Whether at the club or international level, Xhaka’s contributions will continue to shape his team’s successes for years to come. The future remains promising for this exceptional player, whose journey from controversy to leadership serves as an inspiring testament to resilience, maturity, and the power of hard work.
