Granit Xhaka has offered insight into Xabi Alonso’s impact as a manager in DAZN’s newly released documentary, The Architect: From Myth to Challenge, which premiered this week.
The 70-minute film examines
Alonso’s transition from elite midfielder to head coach, and Xhaka’s comments focus less on tactics and more on leadership. Speaking about Alonso’s early days on the job, Xhaka acknowledged that the Spaniard lacked top-level managerial experience but quickly established authority through personality and authenticity.
“He had no experience on the big stage,” Xhaka said. “What he did have was personality. When he walked into the dressing room and started talking, everyone was completely focused.”
According to Xhaka, Alonso earned the dressing room’s respect by being direct and genuine, rather than relying on status or repetition. “Every word he said was true. He wasn’t fake. He was authentic,” he added, noting that players respond to honesty regardless of results.
Xhaka also highlighted Alonso’s merit-based approach to squad management. The coach, he said, does not prioritize reputation, transfer fees, or big names, instead rewarding effort and performance in training.
“He only cares about what he sees on the pitch,” Xhaka explained. “If you train well, he’ll give you a chance.”
