…Xhaka was part of the Swiss team that won the 2009 FIFA U-17 World Cup hosted in Nigeria, defeating the hosts in the final of the tournament
Switzerland’s appearance record holder, Granit Xhaka, has heaped praise on Victor Boniface and Nathan Tella for the role they played in Bayer 04 Leverkusen’s Bundesliga success, Soccernet.ng reports.
Just like the Nigerian duo, 31-year-old Xhaka joined Die Werkself from Arsenal last summer, and became a huge figure in Xabi Alonso’s midfield set-up, as everything went through him. He’s been ever-present for the one-time DFB Pokal winners this season, playing all of their 29 Bundesliga games and scoring two goals.
After securing his first-ever Meisterschale, before the title celebrations got started, the former Basel man expressed his gratitude to the Nigerian fans who have supported Leverkusen all season.
“It’s difficult to find the right words but I had a very good experience in Nigeria, won the U-17 World Cup there, defeating them in the final. Jokes aside, I say thanks for the support, it is always good to have worldwide support and we gave our best for the season,” the versatile midfielder told Soccernet.ng.
In the same vein, Xhaka praised the Nigerians in the Leverkusen team for what they bring to the club, on and off the pitch.
“For Boni and Nathan, they’re very good, very positive, always with a smile on their faces. With them, we have a lot of quality in the team, on and off the pitch, and it’s so nice to be a part of them and the team.”
Soccernet
