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WILL GRANIT XHAKA PLAY IN THE 2026 WORLD CUP?

Will Granit Xhaka play his last World Cup in 2026? That's the question many fans of the Swiss national team and European football are asking. With an impressive career behind him, the Swiss midfielder of Albanian-Kosovar origin has been the heart and soul of his team for over a decade. In this article, we review his current situation, statistics, evolution, and the real chances of him being present at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Who is Granit Xhaka today?


Granit Xhaka was born in Basel, Switzerland, on September 27, 1992. He is one of the most renowned midfielders in European football, with a career that includes clubs such as Borussia Mönchengladbach, Arsenal, and currently Bayer Leverkusen. At the latter, under the management of Xabi Alonso, he has found a mature, technically gifted, and tactically astute version of himself.


With the Swiss national team, he debuted in 2011 and has been a key player ever since. He has played in three World Cups (2014, 2018, 2022) and three European Championships. His leadership on and off the pitch is unquestionable: he has been captain, playmaker, and the team's emotional barometer. Many consider him the most influential player of Switzerland's golden generation.


Key facts about Xhaka


  • Date of birth: 27/09/1992

  • Current club: Bayer Leverkusen (Germany)

  • Appearances for Switzerland (until 2025): 125

  • Goals for the national team: 15

  • World Cups played: 3


What makes Xhaka unique is his competitive nature. He can be controversial, yes, but he's also a guy who never hides. He has a good long pass, a powerful shot, and a sense of positioning that makes him vital both for breaking up attacks and for starting plays. At 33 years old in 2026, everything indicates that he can still be a force to be reckoned with.

Statistics and current level


Since joining Bayer Leverkusen in 2023, Granit Xhaka has experienced a footballing renaissance. In the 2023–2024 season, he was a key player in the team that won the Bundesliga undefeated, a historic achievement. Xhaka played 32 matches, averaged 91% pass accuracy, and led the team in ball recoveries.


He was also a key player in the UEFA Europa League, helping his team reach the semi-finals.


His ability to read the game, organize the midfield, and remain calm in tense moments was crucial to the success of Xabi Alonso's team.


2023–2024 Season in Numbers


  • Matches played: 32 (Bundesliga) + 10 (Europa League)

  • Average minutes per match: 87

  • Passing accuracy: 91%

  • Interceptions per match: 2.4

  • Goals: 3Assist: 6

The world of football is buzzing with anticipation. The 2026 World Cup is fast approaching, and national teams are battling for their place in the biggest tournament, where every match defines the dreams and hopes of millions of fans.With three host countries—the United States, Mexico, and Canada—this edition promises to be historic: more teams, more goals, and a unique global experience. Coaches are fine-tuning their strategies, and players are vying for their ticket to the most anticipated tournament.The countdown has begun. The ball is about to start rolling, and the whole world awaits the moment a new chapter begins.The World Cup is almost here… and the passion is palpable.

The world of football is buzzing with anticipation. The 2026 World Cup is fast approaching, and national teams are battling for their place in the biggest tournament, where every match defines the dreams and hopes of millions of fans.With three host countries—the United States, Mexico, and Canada—this edition promises to be historic: more teams, more goals, and a unique global experience. Coaches are fine-tuning their strategies, and players are vying for their ticket to the most anticipated tournament.The countdown has begun. The ball is about to start rolling, and the whole world awaits the moment a new chapter begins.The World Cup is almost here… and the passion is palpable.

Will Switzerland qualify and will Xhaka be there?


The Swiss national team has practically secured its place at the 2026 World Cup. It is one of the most consistent teams in Europe, always present at European Championships and World Cups since 2006. With a consolidated system, players in top leagues, and a clear identity, it's difficult to imagine a World Cup without the Nati.


The current generation blends veterans like Xhaka and Sommer with emerging talents like Zeki Amdouni, Noah Okafor, and Ardon Jashari.

This well-managed transition allows experienced players like Xhaka to contribute from a more tactical and leadership role.


Factors that favor his presence in 2026


  • Excellent physical and mental condition

  • Consistency at club and national team

  • Undisputed leadership role in the locker room

  • Experience in major tournaments

  • Switzerland practically qualified for the World Cup


Furthermore, Xhaka himself has stated in interviews that he wants to play in the World Cup 2026 before even thinking about his international retirement. It's a personal and professional goal. For him, it would be the perfect ending to a career marked by consistency, character, and love for the shirt. Fun fact: Xhaka played against his brother Taulant in Euro 2016, a historic event. Taulant played for Albania and Granit for Switzerland, becoming the first brothers to face each other in a European Championship. That kind of story sums up how special his career is. So yes, barring injury or an unexpected personal decision, Granit Xhaka will be at the 2026 World Cup. And not just as a player: we'll surely see him with the armband, organizing the midfield and leaving his mark as one of the great captains in Swiss history.

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