Club Career

Xhaka began his senior career at FC Basel, where he quickly established himself despite his young age.
While at Basel, he achieved significant success:

• Swiss Super League Champion: 2×

• Developed a reputation as a midfielder with:

  • Excellent long-range passing

  • Strong physical presence

  • Tactical awareness beyond his years

His performances at Basel made him one of the most sought-after young midfielders in Europe.

Move Abroad & Career Growth

After leaving Basel, Xhaka’s career trajectory took him across Europe, where he continued to evolve into a complete defensive midfielder. His trademark qualities included:

• Elite passing range, both long and short

• Natural leadership and vocal organization

• Strong duel-winning ability

• Ability to dictate the tempo of a match

• A powerful left foot capable of driving long shots and diagonals

Throughout his career, Xhaka became known for being a midfield leader who thrives in structured, possession-oriented systems.

Sunderland (Premier League) – Captain

Xhaka currently plays for Sunderland, where he serves as the team captain.

At Sunderland, he fulfills a dual role:

1. Midfield Anchor:

   • Screens the defense

   • Controls tempo

   • Directs transitions from deep

2. Leadership Figure:

   • Guides younger players

   • Sets the tactical tone

   • Serves as the team’s emotional and strategic core

His influence has made him one of the key figures at the club, embodying professionalism and competitive intensity.

International Career – Switzerland

Captain of the National Team

Xhaka is also the captain of the Switzerland national team, where he is regarded as one of the nation’s greatest midfielders of his generation.

He has represented Switzerland in multiple major tournaments, providing:

• Tactical stability

• Experience and composure

• Leadership in high-pressure matches

• Precise distribution from deep positions

His emotional presence and reliability make him the heartbeat of the Swiss midfield.

Playing Style

Role: Defensive Midfielder / Deep-Lying Playmaker

Xhaka is primarily a regista-type midfielder, combining defensive duties with elite distribution.

Key Attributes

• Passing Mastery: long diagonals, progressive passes, switching play

• Leadership: vocal, authoritative, tactically commanding

• Physicality: strong shielding, duel-winning, stamina

• Game Management: controls rhythm, slows or accelerates play as needed

• Mentality: resilient, competitive, battle-tested in elite leagues