Granit Xhaka’s performance has reached new heights while playing under Xabi Alonso at Bayer Leverkusen, according to Raphael Honigstein.

TNT Sports expert Raphael Honigstein, a renowned sports journalist from England, has praised the impact of Granit Xhaka at Bayer Leverkusen. Xhaka, who joined the Bundesliga leaders in July 2023, has been instrumental in their success this season, with Leverkusen currently leading the German top tier by a significant 16 points.

Honigstein believes that Xhaka’s leadership qualities and improved performances are a result of the influence of experienced former central midfielders Xabi Alonso and Mikel Arteta.

According to Honigstein, Alonso has built the Leverkusen team around Xhaka, recognizing his importance to the side. Xhaka’s presence has helped instill a sense of togetherness and a real team mentality that previous Leverkusen teams have lacked. Honigstein credits Xhaka as one of the main reasons why Leverkusen has transformed from a very good team to a superb side.

Honigstein also discussed the potential of Leverkusen’s young starlet Florian Wirtz. The 20-year-old has been in impressive form this season, scoring eight goals and providing 10 assists in the league. Honigstein believes that Wirtz still has room for improvement and expects him to shine under any manager, given his natural ability.

In addition, Honigstein highlighted the remarkable achievement of Leverkusen potentially winning the Bundesliga. He described it as unprecedented, considering the club’s previous failed attempts. Leverkusen has always been known for playing attacking football, and their commitment to this style of play has garnered appreciation from many neutrals.

Overall, Honigstein’s analysis showcases the impact of Xhaka, the potential of Wirtz, and the remarkable success of Leverkusen this season.