LAGOS, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA) – Granit Xhaka, the Bayer Leverkusen midfielder, has refuted claims that his wife, Leonita Lekaj, played a significant role in his decision to leave Arsenal and return to the Bundesliga this summer.
Xhaka, who spent seven years with Arsenal, made the switch to Bayer Leverkusen under the guidance of manager Xabi Alonso.
Addressing the rumors, Xhaka clarified that the decision regarding his next club was entirely his own.
He emphasized that his choice was driven by the ambitious plans of Bayer Leverkusen, not external factors.
Speaking to NZZ am Sonntag, Xhaka stated, “It was sometimes written that I was coming back to Germany because of my wife.
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“That’s not the truth. Like me, she was very happy in London. I made the decision solely as a footballer and athlete.”
He further explained that the move to Bayer Leverkusen was appealing because it allowed him to join a top German club with clear objectives.
Xhaka highlighted the benefits of training and working with the team in a peaceful environment, free from the intense scrutiny and pressure he experienced at Arsenal.
He believes in the enormous potential of the Leverkusen team and their ability to achieve significant success.
Xhaka has made a positive impact at his new club, contributing one assist in eight games so far this season.
His presence has played a crucial role in Bayer Leverkusen’s rise to the top position in the Bundesliga after the first six games.
Xabi Alonso’s side is set to compete in the Europa League against Molde in their upcoming fixture.