Granit Xhaka’s time at Arsenal was mixed, to say the least, with plenty of ups and downs occurring over his stay at the club.
The midfielder joined in 2016 from Borussia Monchengladbach, slotting into the team’s central ranks under Arsene Wenger.
At times, Granit Xhaka was one of the most important players on the pitch, even going on to become the Arsenal club captain.
However, following a falling out with supporters, the Swiss international seemed destined to be viewed as something of a villain rather than a hero.
That changed under Mikel Arteta, though, who found a new role for the star to thrive in, scoring plenty of goals along the way.
In the end, Xhaka is remembered fondly for his time at Arsenal, moving on to join Bayer Leverkusen.
Xhaka won the Bundesliga with Leverkusen in his first full season at the club, bringing them unexpected success.
While the 32-year-old is still thriving, he has seemingly told everyone where his next move will be.
Granit Xhaka reveals FC Basel transfer return plan
With Granit Xhaka impressing in his two years in the Bundesliga, there is an expectation that plenty more is to come.
The 32-year-old has a deal until 2028 with Bayer Leverkusen, which will take him until he is 35 at the club.
While some fans have called for a return to Arsenal, the midfielder himself has hinted at a bit of a different return.
Xhaka was present at FC Basel for his brother, Taulant Xhaka, and his retirement from a professional playing career.
With the pair both growing up in Basel and playing for the club, Granit seemingly revealed his desire to return.
He said, during a speech on the pitch: “One Xhaka goes, soon the other will be back.”
It certainly suggests that something of an emotional return is on the cards, but it remains to be seen exactly when.
With a few of his peak years left, with three years left on his Bayer Leverkusen transfer, it seems unlikely to be a move for this summer.
How has Granit Xhaka done since leaving Arsenal?
After leaving Arsenal in 2023, Xhaka has enjoyed two impressive seasons with Bayer Leverkusen in the Bundesliga.
He managed a Bundesliga and DFB Pokal double in his first season, along with a German Super Cup triumph this campaign.
| Appearances | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|
| 99 | 6 | 9 |
While the 2024/25 season didn’t quite pan out as many would’ve hoped, Leverkusen still finished second and remain within Champions League qualification.
The impending exit of Xabi Alonso could change a few things for the club, not least with their style of play.
It remains to be seen how Xhaka will fit in under whoever the new boss will be, and how that could dictate his future.
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