Granit Xhaka, captain of the Swiss national football team, is set to make his fourth appearance at the World Cup, a testament to his exceptional career. With Switzerland's 26-man squad named for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, Xhaka solidifies his legacy as the most celebrated and experienced player in Swiss football.
#How has Xhaka's career shown consistency?
Granit Xhaka began his World Cup journey in Brazil in 2014 at the age of 21. Since then, he has participated in two other tournaments—Russia in 2018 and Qatar in 2022. Now, at 33, he is preparing for yet another World Cup.
The numbers emphasize his achievements. As of June 2026, Xhaka has made 146 international appearances, which is an all-time record in Swiss football. Additionally, he leads Switzerland with 12 World Cup appearances.
Since 2019, Xhaka has donned the captain's armband, with his coaching staff and teammates consistently highlighting his crucial role in the team’s aspirations during World Cup campaigns. His tactical acumen and leadership serve as significant assets both on and off the pitch.
#What does Xhaka's move mean for his career?
In July 2025, after a successful stint at Bayer Leverkusen, Xhaka transferred to Sunderland in a deal worth £23 million. This transition marks another bold step in a career characterized by a refusal to stay in one place. Xhaka’s time in the Bundesliga helped him refine his skills and adaptability, making him a valuable addition to his new team.
#What does Team Switzerland expect from Xhaka in 2026?
As the format of the 2026 World Cup encompasses three different host nations, it introduces distinctive logistical and physical challenges for the competing teams. Significant travel distances between the venues, differing weather conditions, and an expanded tournament format underscore the importance of squad depth and experienced leadership. The advantage of having a captain like Xhaka with 146 caps and 12 World Cup matches brings an invaluable edge that may not be immediately noticeable in pre-tournament assessments but is crucial in high-pressure match situations.