Xhaka Dreams Big: Albanian-Swiss Captain Eyes World Cup Glory

As Switzerland prepares for the FIFA World Cup 2026, one of its most influential figures is setting his sights higher than ever. Captain Granit Xhaka believes the Swiss national team has the quality, unity, and experience to achieve something truly special on football's biggest stage.

Speaking to FIFA, the Albanian-born midfielder reflected on his remarkable journey from the streets of Basel to becoming one of the most respected leaders in international football.

"We want to achieve something remarkable," Xhaka said, expressing confidence that the current Swiss generation can leave a lasting mark at the tournament in North America.

From Basel Beginnings to World Cup Captain

When Xhaka reflects on his career, his thoughts often return to his family. His parents, Ragip and Eli, fled the former Yugoslavia with the assistance of Amnesty International and started a new life in Switzerland.

"I was born in Switzerland, but it was a completely new country for my parents," Xhaka recalled.

Football quickly became part of his life. Starting the game at just four years old in Basel, the young boy who dreamed of becoming a professional player has now become Switzerland's captain and record World Cup appearance holder.

The 33-year-old midfielder will participate in his fourth FIFA World Cup after appearances in Brazil 2014, Russia 2018, and Qatar 2022. With 12 World Cup matches to his name, no Swiss player has appeared more often on football's biggest stage.

"That makes me both proud and happy," he said. "You never forget all the work you put in as a kid. One of my dreams has come true."

For Albanians around the world, Xhaka's success story remains a source of pride. The son of Albanian parents has become an inspiration for young footballers who dream of reaching the highest levels of the game.

Never Afraid of a Challenge

Anyone familiar with Xhaka's career knows he has never shied away from difficult decisions.

In July 2025, after captaining Bayer Leverkusen to a historic domestic double and competing in the UEFA Champions League, he surprised many by joining newly promoted Premier League side Sunderland. Critics questioned why one of Europe's most experienced midfielders would leave an elite club for a team fighting to establish itself in England's top division.

Xhaka saw things differently.

"I took on a huge challenge, and a lot of people criticised me for going from a Champions League club to a newly promoted side. But I'm the kind of guy who likes to take risks. I love a challenge—not just on the pitch, but off it too."

His gamble paid off. Sunderland not only secured Premier League survival comfortably but also earned qualification for the UEFA Europa League on the final day of the season.

"As long as I still have that hunger to get up every day and improve, you will see me out on the pitch," Xhaka explained.

Captain and Mentor

The Switzerland squad has changed dramatically since Xhaka first emerged as an international player alongside experienced leaders such as Valon Behrami, Gokhan Inler, and Stephan Lichtsteiner.

Today, he is one of the senior figures responsible for guiding a new generation of talent.

"We are a completely different team to just a few years ago," he admitted. "We have a new generation with lots of young players, but also a good blend of youth and experience. It's important for us to take responsibility and to set an example for the younger players."

Under coach Murat Yakin, Switzerland qualified for the World Cup as unbeaten group winners, recording four victories and two draws while scoring 14 goals and conceding only two.

Asked what supporters can expect in North America, Xhaka's answer was clear.

"A unit, a close-knit team, on and off the pitch. A team that will give everything—right up to the 90th, 95th minute."

Returning to California

World Cup 2026 will also bring Xhaka back to familiar surroundings.

In 2016, shortly after signing for Arsenal, he made his debut in the MLS All-Star Game in the San Francisco Bay Area before also playing in the Los Angeles region during Arsenal's preseason tour.

Ten years later, he returns to California wearing the captain's armband for his country.

Switzerland's opening match on June 13 will be played in the Bay Area, followed by another fixture in Los Angeles five days later.

"I can still remember it all very clearly; it was a wonderful experience," Xhaka said. "Just hearing the words 'Los Angeles' is enough to get you excited."

Switzerland will then travel to Vancouver, where they face co-host Canada in their final group-stage match.

"We know that Canada can be very dangerous," Xhaka warned.

Chasing a Dream

Despite all his experience, Xhaka admits that the excitement before kick-off never disappears.

"I always start by dressing the right side of my body first—my shinpad, my sock, my boot," he revealed about one of his matchday rituals.

He still feels nervous before every game.

"It's not fear, it's more like adrenaline. As long as I feel that rush, I'm happy. As soon as that's gone, I won't be here anymore."

For Switzerland, the first objective is clear: advancing from the group stage.

"A must for Switzerland, and for us as a team," Xhaka insisted.

But the midfielder is not afraid to dream bigger.

"I love to dream, and I dream big. I'm not going to say the word that's on my mind right now. But you can dream, you're allowed to—and it does you good."

As the countdown to World Cup 2026 continues, one thing is certain: Granit Xhaka is not travelling to North America merely to participate. The Albanian-Swiss captain is chasing the biggest dream of his career—and he believes Switzerland may be ready to make history.