Granit Xhaka Explains Why He Ranked Bruno Fernandes Ahead of Florian Wirtz and Cole Palmer
In a time when the football world is saturated with young talent, breakout stars, and rising prodigies, Granit Xhaka’s recent comments have added a touch of grounded realism to the ongoing debates about midfield excellence. The Swiss international and Bayer Leverkusen star surprised many when he placed Bruno Fernandes at the top of his midfield rankings—ahead of Florian Wirtz and Cole Palmer, two of Europe’s most talked-about young playmakers.
Speaking candidly, Xhaka explained his reasoning: Fernandes, according to the former Arsenal man, has consistently delivered not just in the Premier League, but at the international level with Portugal as well. In a football landscape that often favors the new and shiny, Xhaka opted for experience, consistency, and tangible output.
> Xhaka on Bruno Fernandes:
“He’s shown for many years what he can do not just in the Premier League but for Portugal too. Even the numbers you see the last years are unbelievable. I have a lot of respect for him so will put him first.”
It’s a comment that has sparked debates across fanbases and pundit desks alike. But when placed under the microscope, Xhaka’s praise isn’t just well-intentioned—it’s well-earned.
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Fernandes: The Numbers Don’t Lie
While flashy names like Florian Wirtz and Cole Palmer are the current darlings of the football media, Fernandes has quietly (and sometimes not so quietly) amassed an incredible resume since arriving at Manchester United in January 2020.
In just a few seasons, the Portuguese midfielder has:
Scored over 70 goals and registered nearly as many assists for United
Been directly involved in more goal contributions than any other Premier League midfielder during this time
Become the club captain and emotional leader at Old Trafford
Maintained a high level of performance across multiple competitions, including the Champions League, Europa League, and international tournaments with Portugal
His ability to consistently deliver, particularly in high-pressure situations, has elevated him into a category of midfielders who not only produce, but lead.
Fernandes is known for his vision, creativity, and tireless work ethic—traits that may not always make the headlines but are fundamental to elite-level midfield play. And this is exactly what Xhaka is referring to.
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A Veteran’s Perspective
Granit Xhaka, now thriving in Germany with Bayer Leverkusen, knows a thing or two about elite midfield battles. A seasoned campaigner for both club and country, Xhaka has faced some of the best in the world, and his opinion carries weight because it comes from a player who operates in the thick of midfield warfare every week.
While praising Fernandes, Xhaka did not dismiss the talent of Wirtz and Palmer—two exceptional young players with enormous potential. But his ranking serves as a reminder that consistency over time is still the true measure of greatness in football.
Wirtz, for example, has dazzled Bundesliga fans with his technical skill and flair. Still just 22, the German has become a key figure for both club and country and is widely tipped for superstardom. Similarly, Palmer has emerged as a breakout star at Chelsea after his move from Manchester City, showcasing composure, dribbling, and creativity beyond his years.
But neither Wirtz nor Palmer have yet achieved the level of sustained excellence that Fernandes has demonstrated since his arrival in England—and that’s the nuance Xhaka wanted to underline.
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Respect and Rivalry
It’s easy to forget that Xhaka and Fernandes have had their fair share of on-field battles. The pair faced off multiple times during Xhaka’s time at Arsenal, with the midfield tussles between United and Arsenal often being among the most intense fixtures in the league.
Despite the competitive nature of those encounters—and despite some friction in those fiery matches—Xhaka’s words reveal a deep professional respect for his former rival.
In modern football, where social media echo chambers often polarize players and pit them against each other, Xhaka’s comments stand out for their honesty and humility. He did not let club bias, fan rivalry, or media narratives cloud his judgment—he simply acknowledged quality when he saw it.
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Fernandes: A Leader in Transition
One of the key elements of Xhaka’s praise is Fernandes’ ability to lead amid chaos. Manchester United has not been the most stable club over the past few years, facing managerial changes, ownership controversies, and inconsistent performances.
Yet, throughout all of it, Fernandes has shouldered responsibility, often being the club’s standout performer even when results didn’t go their way. As captain, he’s carried the burden of expectations from a global fanbase, a legacy that dates back to Sir Alex Ferguson, and a dressing room that has undergone significant transition.
That resilience is rare—and it’s part of why veterans like Xhaka appreciate him more than fans might realize.
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The Bigger Picture: Midfield Evolution
Xhaka’s ranking is also symbolic of a broader conversation in football: what defines an elite midfielder today?
Is it goals and assists? Is it tactical intelligence? Longevity? Leadership? The truth is, it’s all of the above.
While young talents like Palmer and Wirtz are shaping the future of football, players like Fernandes represent the present-day gold standard. They’re the benchmark that rising stars are measured against—not just in output, but in their ability to influence games, handle pressure, and maintain performance over seasons.
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A Message to the Next Generation
Perhaps unknowingly, Xhaka has sent a subtle message to the new wave of midfielders emerging across Europe. Talent is important. Potential is exciting. But longevity and consistency, underlined by Fernandes’ numbers and impact, are what truly earn the respect of fellow professionals.
Both Wirtz and Palmer have time on their side, and few would bet against them climbing the rankings soon. But for now, in the eyes of one of football’s most experienced midfield generals, Bruno Fernandes remains top of the pile.
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Conclusion: A Veteran’s Vote of Confidence
Granit Xhaka’s endorsement of Bruno Fernandes is more than a personal opinion—it’s a reflection of the enduring values in football. Experience, consistency, leadership, and output still matter, even in a world obsessed with the next big thing.
Fernandes may not always get the unanimous love of pundits or trend on social media for moments of flair like his younger counterparts, but in the eyes of his peers—the ones who go head-to-head with him in the heart of the pitch—his reputation is ironclad.
And in football, there’s no praise more authentic than that which comes from your rivals.
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