Granit Xhaka: Switzerland Captain and Midfield Leader

Granit Xhaka is one of Switzerland’s greatest footballers and among the most respected midfielders of his generation. Known for his leadership, passing ability, tactical intelligence, and powerful long-range shots, Xhaka has enjoyed a successful career with clubs in Switzerland, Germany, England, and most recently Sunderland. He also captains the Switzerland national team and continues to be a key figure in international football. Recent reports have linked him with transfer interest while he focuses on Switzerland’s FIFA World Cup campaign.

Granit Xhaka Wiki

• Full Name: Granit Xhaka
• Date of Birth: September 27, 1992
• Age: 33 (as of 2026)
• Birthplace: Basel, Switzerland
• Nationality: Swiss
• Position: Defensive Midfielder
• Preferred Foot: Left
• Current Club: Sunderland
• National Team: Switzerland
• Height: 1.86 m (6 ft 1 in)

Granit Xhaka Switzerland Career

Xhaka made his senior debut for Switzerland in 2011 and has become one of the country’s most decorated international footballers.

His international highlights include:

• Over 140 senior international appearances
• Captained Switzerland in multiple major tournaments
• Represented Switzerland at several FIFA World Cups and UEFA European Championships
• One of the most capped players in Swiss football history

During the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Xhaka once again led Switzerland as captain, helping his nation progress into the knockout rounds.

Granit Xhaka Number

Throughout most of his club career, Granit Xhaka has worn jersey number 34, including at Sunderland.

For the Switzerland national team, he traditionally wears shirt number 10, symbolizing his leadership and creative role in midfield.

Granit Xhaka Stats

As of mid-2026, Granit Xhaka’s senior career includes:

Club Career

• Basel
• Borussia Mönchengladbach
• Arsenal
• Bayer Leverkusen
• Sunderland

Career achievements include:

• Hundreds of club appearances
• League titles in Switzerland and Germany
• Multiple domestic cup trophies
• UEFA Champions League experience

International Stats

• 140+ international appearances
• 16+ international goals
• Switzerland captain
• Four FIFA World Cup appearances

Granit Xhaka Religion

Granit Xhaka follows Islam. His family has Kosovan Albanian roots, and he has spoken proudly about both his heritage and his faith throughout his professional career.

Granit Xhaka Wife

Granit Xhaka is married to Leonita Lekaj.

The couple married in 2017 after dating for several years. They have three daughters and regularly share family moments on social media while maintaining a relatively private personal life.

Club Career Journey

FC Basel

Xhaka began his professional career with FC Basel, where he won league championships before attracting attention across Europe.

Borussia Mönchengladbach

In Germany, he developed into one of the Bundesliga’s best midfielders and became club captain.

Arsenal

Xhaka joined Arsenal in 2016 and spent seven seasons in North London.

During his Arsenal career he:

• Won two FA Cups
• Served as captain
• Made nearly 300 appearances
• Became one of the Premier League’s most influential midfielders

Bayer Leverkusen

His move to Bayer Leverkusen revitalized his career as he played a central role in one of the club’s most successful seasons.

Sunderland

In 2025, Xhaka joined Sunderland and quickly became club captain, helping the team exceed expectations while remaining a key player despite transfer speculation.

Playing Style

Xhaka is widely admired for:

• Excellent passing range
• Leadership qualities
• Defensive positioning
• Powerful long-distance shooting
• Tactical awareness
• Ability to control the tempo of matches

His experience makes him one of Europe’s most dependable holding midfielders.

Leadership for Switzerland

Xhaka has become the heartbeat of the Swiss national team.

His leadership includes:

• Organizing midfield play
• Guiding younger teammates
• Leading by example
• Performing consistently in major tournaments

Many football analysts consider him among Switzerland’s greatest-ever players due to his longevity and influence.

Achievements

Some of Granit Xhaka’s major achievements include:

• Swiss Super League champion
• FA Cup winner
• Bundesliga champion
• Swiss national team captain
• 140+ international caps
• Multiple FIFA World Cup appearances

Frequently Asked Questions

How old is Granit Xhaka?

Granit Xhaka is 33 years old, having been born on September 27, 1992.

What number does Granit Xhaka wear?

He wears number 34 at club level and has commonly worn number 10 for Switzerland.

What religion is Granit Xhaka?

Granit Xhaka is Muslim.

Who is Granit Xhaka’s wife?

He is married to Leonita Lekaj. The couple married in 2017 and have three daughters.

Which club does Granit Xhaka play for?

As of 2026, Granit Xhaka plays for Sunderland while captaining the Switzerland national team.

Conclusion

Granit Xhaka has built an outstanding career through consistency, leadership, and elite midfield performances. From his early success at Basel to starring for Arsenal, Bayer Leverkusen, Sunderland, and Switzerland, he has established himself as one of the finest Swiss footballers of all time. Whether wearing the captain’s armband or controlling the midfield, Xhaka continues to demonstrate why he remains one of football’s most respected leaders.