Xhaka scored a screamer from outside the box for Xabi Alonso's Leverkursen before repeating former Kariobangi Sharks midfielder Sven Yidah's celebration.
Former Arsenal midfielder Granit Xhaka showcased his prowess with a spectacular goal that initiated Bayer Leverkusen's triumph over Mainz in the Bundesliga.
Capitalizing on a deflected cross from the in-form Alex Grimaldo, Xhaka effortlessly netted a volley to open the scoring.
Under the guidance of Xabi Alonso, Xhaka has been enjoying an exceptional season at the pinnacle of the Bundesliga.
The Swiss international, donning the number 34 jersey, added a touch of humor to his celebration by mimicking a fake hamstring injury.
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This momentarily alarmed Alonso, who began preparing the medics on the sidelines before realizing it was a jest, prompting him to instruct the medical team to stand down.
Xhaka became the latest player to pull off that celebration after Antonio Rudiger after it was inco-oporaed in the popular video game FC 24 as “faking it”.
The celebration was initially invented by former Kariobangi Sharks and Marumo Gallants midfielder Sven Yidah.
Originally performed it during a penalty shootout against English side Everton in a friendly organized by betting company SportPesa in 2019.
In the move, the player limps as if he has pulled a muscle, and quickly begins to strut briskly while swinging his hands.
Xabi Alonso's side have enjoyed a fantastic run of form this season.
The side have been unbeaten in all of their league clashes this season so far, having beaten reigning champions Bayern Munich 3-0 in a recent match.
Xhaka made almost 300 appearances for the Gunners and scored over 20 goals, leaving in July 2023 to join Xabi Alonso's side.
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If Leverkusen go onto win the Bundesliga title, it will be their first ever title win, with holders Bayern Munich having won 32 times before.
Robert Andrich scored a second goal for the hosts later in the second half to secure all three points for Alonso's side as they move 11 points clear of Bayern Munich, who have one game in hand.
The side have now had 19 wins and 4 draws since the start of the season, aiming for their first ever title win.
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