Xhaka’s impressive season with Leverkusen, where he played a vital role in Xabi Alonso’s title-winning midfield, raised eyebrows back home.
Local journalists described it as the “best season of his career” and were optimistic he could translate his club form onto the international stage.
Swiss journalist Laurent Ducret, who writes for Keystone-SDA, told BBC Sport it was Xhaka’s “last chance to be successful with Switzerland” at Euro 2024.
“He looked very good in the warm-up games before the Euros but he has not shown his best level with Switzerland, always playing better for his club,” added Ducret.
That is a view widely shared among supporters.
Asked if Xhaka had delivered for Switzerland so far, Aural, a fan from Geneva who was in Frankfurt for the group stages, said: “No way, no chance. Not yet.”
But journalists and fans still see hope in Xhaka, with Aural claiming they “would make him a statue” if he takes Switzerland all the way to the final in Germany.
So far, he has certainly stepped up to the plate, dominating in midfield and demonstrating his leadership as Switzerland progressed from their group with ease.
“I thought Xhaka was really good all night,” Leicester defender Conor Coady told BBC Two after Switzerland’s draw with Germany.
“He was brilliant in the way he managed the midfield. With the season he’s had, he’s coming into the tournament with huge confidence anyway.
“Having him in front of the back five, marshalling people, getting across the pitch and up to the box… I just thought he was brilliant.”
Aside from an underwhelming display against Scotland, Xhaka has been one of the standout performers in the tournament.
He will be tested again in their next match with Italy and while Xhaka appreciates acknowledgement for his individual form, he is excited by his team’s progression.
“I’m not a big fan of numbers or individual trophies [like the man of the match awards]let’s say that,” said Xhaka.
“For sure it’s makes me happy, I will not lie about this, but what makes me more happy is the team, how they work for each other and the level we are playing.
“Six months ago we were not nearly where we are today. Our training intensity is much higher than it was before. The quality is much better.
“Nobody knows before the morning of the game who is starting. This is what makes us stronger. I’m happy to be a part of this team.”
2024-06-29 05:39:24
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