Bayer Leverkusen and Swiss midfielder Granit Xhaka has stirred controversy with his recent comments following Switzerland’s victory over Italy in Euro 2024. Speaking at a press conference, Xhaka didn’t hold back in his criticism of the Italian team’s performance.
“We won even before stepping onto the field, just as they did against us three years ago,” Xhaka stated, referencing Italy’s 3-0 victory over Switzerland in the group stage of Euro 2020. “I’ve never seen Italy struggle on the field as much as they did against us.”
Xhaka expressed immense pride in his team’s achievement, highlighting not just the result but the quality of their performance. “What we’ve accomplished is more than special. We played at an excellent level with the right mental approach against a prestigious opponent,” he said.
The midfielder also touched on the lingering pain from their defeat three years ago, stating that it motivated their recent performance. “We felt the loss from three years ago; the pain was still there. We demonstrated great team spirit, and what we achieved is more than deserved.”
Looking ahead to their next match against England, Xhaka, who spent several seasons in the Premier League, emphasized the team’s mix of experience and youth. “The more mature we become, the stronger we get. We can transmit to our young players what we’ve experienced in terms of mentality,” he explained.
Xhaka concluded with a warning to their upcoming opponents: “I hate losing. I get tremendously angry even in training, and when we finish sessions, some provoke me, which hurts me doubly.” This statement serves as a clear message to England about the Swiss team’s determination and competitive spirit.
